The NFL's regular season reaches a whimpering conclusion this Sunday as the Philadelphia Eagles host the Washington Commanders in a matchup more noteworthy for its underlying drama than playoff implications.

With both teams effectively eliminated from meaningful contention, the game represents a final opportunity for pride, evaluation, and potential retribution after a December encounter that sparked heated emotions.

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has been adamant about maintaining competitive integrity, stating unequivocally that resting players is "not part of our philosophy." Despite being mathematically out of playoff contention and nursing an eight-game losing streak, Quinn sees value in giving players meaningful game experience.

The Commanders enter Lincoln Financial Field with their third-string quarterback, Josh Johnson, potentially targeting star receiver Terry McLaurin - who will see his impressive five-year 1,000-yard receiving streak end this season after accumulating just 525 yards across nine injury-shortened games.

Philadelphia's Nick Sirianni will start backup quarterback Tanner McKee and rest most starters, a decision stemming partly from lingering tension after a two-point conversion controversy in their previous matchup that nearly ignited a sideline confrontation. Sirianni emphasized his profound respect for Quinn and the Commanders, downplaying any potential retaliatory motivations.

Washington's season has been a narrative of gradual disintegration, with early season hopes quickly evaporating after a 38-14 loss to Seattle that left them at 3-6. The team, one of the league's older rosters, struggled to maintain competitive momentum despite initial optimism around quarterback Jayden Daniels.

While the game carries minimal postseason significance, it represents a final canvas for both teams to evaluate talent, maintain professional pride, and close a challenging chapter in their respective 2023 campaigns.