ARLINGTON, Texas — Head coach Dan Quinn made a strategic decision to pull rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels at halftime due to mild leg soreness, not performance issues. The Washington Commanders, having already secured a playoff berth, opted for caution despite trailing early in the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys.
Daniels expressed his understanding of the choice, emphasizing his respect for the coaching staff. However, he made it clear that given higher stakes, he would have fought to continue playing, stating, “One hundred percent. They’d have to drag me off the field.”
This mentality seems emblematic of the entire Commanders roster. Determined and resilient, the team rallied in the second half, scoring three touchdowns. Terry McLaurin clinched a thrilling 23-19 victory with a 5-yard touchdown catch just three seconds before the game ended, marking his own franchise-record 13th touchdown this season.
“Man, this is amazing,” McLaurin reflected after the game. “This is why you work so hard in the offseason. Going to the playoffs with a chance to win it all.”
The Commanders’ fortitude is noteworthy as their last four victories have all come down to the final play, which speaks volumes about their character and tenacity as they head into the playoffs. The combination of momentum from these late-game heroics and a strong team spirit gives Washington a hopeful outlook as they strive for playoff success.
With each game becoming an opportunity to prove themselves, the Commanders appear well-prepared to face any challenges ahead, making them a team to watch in the postseason.