Washington Commanders Quarterback Jayden Daniels had a game for the ages in last night’s 23-20 road victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He finished 24-of-35 with 268 passing yards and 2 passing touchdowns. He also orchestrated a game-winning drive to secure the victory.
Daniels’ great rookie season continued into the postseason. He became one of only four rookie quarterbacks to win a road playoff game and joined Peyton Manning as the only quarterback with 0 turnovers and 0 punts in a playoff game. It was also Daniels’ third game this season with no punts or turnovers. Daniels is the prohibitive favorite to be named Rookie of the Year and followed it up with a tremendous first playoff game. Will Daniels be able to keep playing well as the Washington Commanders look to advance further in the NFL Playoffs?
Washington Commanders Pull Out a Late Victory
Jayden Daniels has more games in his career where his team has 0 punts and 0 turnovers (3) including playoffs than the combined careers of Tom Brady, Joe Montana, Peyton Manning and Patrick Mahomes (2)
— Doug Clawson (@doug_clawson) January 13, 2025
It was a well-played game on Sunday night between the Commanders and Buccaneers, but Washington’s situational football propelled them to victory. Tampa Bay Quarterback Baker Mayfield had a fumble at the worst time and it cost them dearly.
Daniels tossed a 5-yard touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin for a 20-17 lead. The Buccaneers responded with a field goal to knot the game at 20. After the game, Mayfield said he takes full responsibility for the team’s late-game woes. Mayfield’s error set the stage for Daniels to make magic in his first career playoff game. Daniels put together a 10-play 51-yard drive where he had 44 passing yards. Kicker Zane Gonzalez punctuated a perfect night with a 37-yard field goal to clinch the victory for the Washington Commanders.
Final Thoughts
Daniels and the Commanders now turn their focus to the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions. This game will take place on Saturday night in Detroit. Washington’s defense will need to play even better against Detroit’s high-flying offense. Daniels will also need to keep up his great level of play as he will need to be at his best for the Washington Commanders to have a chance to win.
