4 keys to a Commanders' victory on Sunday Night Football in Week 13

The Washington Commanders are back in action in Week 13 after enjoying a bye in Week 12.

Unfortunately, the team is coming back to a very tough opponent. The Commanders are slated to host the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football. The Broncos enter the contest with a 9-2 record, while the Commanders are 3-8.

If it's any consolation, both of the Broncos' losses in 2025 have come on the road. Meanwhile, two of the Commanders' three wins have been at home, so the hope is that the crowd can give the Commanders some juice. The Broncos have one of the toughest defenses in the league and an efficient offense, so it won't be an easy task.

With that in mind, let's identify the four keys to a Commanders' victory.

Protect Marcus Mariota

No team in the league generates more sacks per game than the Broncos. The Broncos get to the opposing quarterback more than four times per game, and their defensive front can easily disrupt an offensive gameplan.

Washington's offensive line has been mediocre as a whole. The team allows 2.5 sacks per game, so keeping Mariota upright will be crucial in Week 13. If the veteran can extend some plays with his legs, that would definitely help.

Make Bo Nix throw the ball

The Broncos have a top 10 rushing offense, but a more mediocre passing offense. J.K. Dobbins had been one of the best running backs in the league before going on injured reserve, but R.J. Harvey is more than capable of still producing.

The Commanders cannot let Harvey go wild. Stop the run and make Bo Nix throw it to beat you. Nix has been good in 2025, but he doesn't put up huge numbers, and he is prone to throwing interceptions. You have a better chance of victory if you bottle up the run game.

Pass-catchers have to make plays for Mariota

Unfortunately, the Broncos are elite at stopping the pass and stopping the run. The team is more vulnerable through the air, though, so it's a great time for some of these pass-catchers to step up.

Other than Deebo Samuel, the Commanders have not gotten enough out of the wideouts. Luckily, veteran Terry McLaurin is set to return against the Broncos. If McLaurin can have a 100-yard game, you have to feel pretty good about the team's chances.

No turnovers

The Commanders have not won a turnover battle since October 5. Coincidentally, that's also the last time the Commanders won a game.

The Broncos don't force a ton of turnovers — the team is 28th in turnovers per game. Additionally, Bo Nix has thrown eight interceptions. This is actually a good opportunity for the Commanders to win a turnover battle, and when you do that, you can usually win the game.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: 4 keys to a win vs. Broncos in Week 13