DALLAS — In a thrilling game, the Washington Commanders secured a 23-19 victory against the Dallas Cowboys, leveraging the experience of veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota, as rookie Jayden Daniels sat out due to mild leg soreness. The win not only marked the Commander’s fourth straight last-second victory but also clinched them the No. 6 seed in the NFC playoffs.
With Washington holding a 12-5 record, they will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7) in the first round of the playoffs. Commanders coach Dan Quinn made the strategic decision to rest Daniels at halftime after he displayed signs of discomfort that could impair his ability to maneuver effectively.
“I thought we were going to need the quarterback’s legs in this game. They were getting upfield,” Quinn explained. “Jayden had some mild soreness in his leg.”
Despite the setback, Daniels emphasized his commitment to the team, stating that he would have continued playing if a win was essential for playoff qualification. “A hundred percent. They’d have had to drag me off the field,” he noted.
Mariota stepped up in the crucial second half, not only delivering a 5-yard touchdown pass to receiver Terry McLaurin with just two seconds left but also contributing significantly with his legs, amassing 56 rushing yards. His performance was a testament to his resilience, especially set against the backdrop of personal milestones, including the recent birth of his son.
“We have a flair for the dramatics, that’s for sure,” McLaurin commented, reflecting the Commanders’ knack for close finishes. This season’s campaign has resulted in their first playoff appearance since 2020, alongside an impressive number of wins not seen since 1991.
One noteworthy aspect of the game was Mariota’s mentorship of Daniels throughout the season, with Daniels expressing gratitude for the support he received. “It means a lot. I was so happy for him to go out there and have a game like this,” Daniels remarked, spotlighting the camaraderie within the team.
As the Commanders prepare for their playoff matchup, the combination of Mariota’s experience and the team’s growing confidence could pave the way for a promising journey in the postseason.
In summary, the Washington Commanders triumphed in an exhilarating match thanks to Marcus Mariota’s leadership, marking a historic moment in their season. With a playoff spot secured, the team appears poised for potential success, illustrating the power of teamwork and resilience in sports.