The Washington Commanders return to Northwest Stadium on Sunday aiming to erase the sting of a Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers. Washington, now 1-1, will face the Las Vegas Raiders in a 1:00 PM ET kickoff and look to improve to 2-1 for the third consecutive season, something the franchise has not achieved since 1990-92.
The game also marks the first time the Raiders have played in Washington since 2017. The Commanders hold a 7-7 all-time record against Las Vegas and are 3-4 in recent home meetings. After recording seven home wins in 2024 – their most since the legendary 1991 season -Washington has a chance to build on that momentum and make history.
A victory Sunday would give Washington consecutive seasons with a 2-0 home start for the first time since 2008-09. If the Commanders can secure two home victories this year, they would total 10 over two seasons, their most since 2015-16. Reaching four home wins would ensure back-to-back winning records at home for the first time since 1996-97, while five home victories would match their 13-win, two-year span from 1991-92.
Offensive Benchmarks and Key Matchups to Watch
Washington has scored at least 20 points in seven straight home games dating back to last season. Another 20-plus performance would extend that streak to eight games, the fourth-longest in franchise history and the longest since 1999. Reaching double digits in consecutive 20-point outings at home would place them second all-time, a mark not seen since 1974.
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury will look to jumpstart the unit after last week’s 27-18 loss in Green Bay. Whether Marcus Mariota or Jayden Daniels starts at quarterback, expect Washington to test Las Vegas’ defense early. The Raiders feature playmakers like Maxx Crosby and linebacker Devin White, both of whom can wreck a game plan if left unchecked. Rookie tackle Josh Conerly Jr. faces another significant test protecting the edge, and his progress could be critical to Washington’s offensive rhythm.
Running back depth will also be on display following Austin Ekeler’s season-ending injury. Kingsbury noted earlier this week that the Commanders will use a committee approach, which means players like Chris Rodriguez and Bill Croskey-Merritt must step up. Croskey-Merritt’s ability to handle pass protection and contribute in the passing game will be especially important against a Raiders defense that thrives on pressure.
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin will command attention from Las Vegas’ secondary, which should create opportunities for Washington’s other receivers to contribute. If the Commanders can sustain drives and convert on third downs, they will force the Raiders to adjust coverage and potentially open things up for McLaurin later in the game.
On defense, Washington must contain Crosby and limit explosive plays. Raiders quarterback Geno Smith has shown flashes in his new offense but remains vulnerable to interceptions when under heavy pressure. Look for Washington’s defensive front, anchored by Javon Kinlaw and Daron Payne, to attack early and set the tone.
Quick Notes Heading Into Sunday
Washington has won seven straight home games scoring 20 or more points. An eighth would make franchise history.
A 2-1 record would mark the third consecutive season with at least two wins through three games for the first time since the early 1990s.
A 2-0 home start would match a feat not seen since 2008-09, putting Washington on pace for another strong year at Northwest Stadium.Five home wins in 2025 would give the Commanders 13 over two years, their best stretch since 1991-92.
Washington is 7-7 all-time against the Raiders, with Sunday marking their first home meeting in eight years.
The Commanders know they must respond after the Week 2 loss. With playoff expectations growing and a chance to match franchise milestones, Sunday’s game offers both a test and an opportunity. A focused effort against a building but talented Raiders team would set the tone for another strong season at Northwest Stadium.
Fans should watch for early offensive execution, protection on the edges, and how Washington’s defense pressures Smith. If the Commanders execute, they could send a clear message that Northwest Stadium will remain one of the toughest places to play in the NFL this season.
Washington Targets Historic Home Start in Raiders Clash