The Washington Commanders have been one of the NFL’s most surprising teams this season. They went from 4 wins and the No. 2 pick in 2023 to 12 regular season wins and a road playoff win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week this season. Such a disappointing regular season led to massive changes in “The Nation’s Capital.”
The franchise hired Head Coach Dan Quinn and drafted Quarterback Jayden Daniels second overall. Having those two men in the fold led to an entirely different team this season. Their offense and defense both improved dramatically from one season to the next. The Washington Commanders are heading to the Divisional Round following a game-winning field goal by Kicker Zane Gonzalez against Tampa Bay. Will Washington be able to pull off the upset against the Lions tonight?
Washington Commanders Have Little Margin Of Error
The @Commanders are a different team this season 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/FpH6ZgOb4C
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) January 17, 2025
The issue the Commanders will face on the road this evening against the Detroit Lions is not how their offense their offense will perform but how their defense will hold up. Detroit had one of the league’s best offenses during the regular season while Washington’s defense was 13th in total defense. Their defense was one of the worst against the run and one of the best against the pass.
Lions Quarterback Jared Goff will look to excel against one of the league’s best units against the pass. Washington’s offense, led by Daniels, should play well against an injury-plagued Lions defense. Even if Washington’s offense can move the ball against the defense, and score points, their defense will need to hold up its end of the bargain to win.
Final Thoughts
Daniels has already had one of the best rookie years in league history, and a road win against the Detroit Lions would add to his legacy. Washington must have its best game of the season to pull off the massive upset. Daniels and the offense must keep pace with arguably the best unit in the National Football League.
Even if the Washington Commanders come up short tonight, it does not overshadow what has been a season of turnaround for the team. Quinn and Daniels have Washington on the right track for years to come.
