In an intense matchup in Dallas, the Washington Commanders triumphed over the Cowboys, clinching a 23-19 victory with a last-minute touchdown pass from veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota. This win places the Commanders in the NFC playoffs as the No. 6 seed, setting them up for a challenging first-round game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The game took an unexpected turn when starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, the young Heisman Trophy winner, was sidelined due to mild leg soreness. Commanders head coach Dan Quinn made the strategic decision to bench Daniels at halftime, believing the game’s demands would require a mobile quarterback. Mariota, who also won the Heisman a decade earlier and was the second overall pick in the 2015 draft, stepped up and was instrumental in leading the team to victory.
The Commanders entered the second half trailing 6-3, but Mariota’s dynamic performance, including a 5-yard touchdown run, ignited the team’s offense. His pivotal 33-yard run on a fourth-and-1 late in the game set the stage for the game-winning touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin. This victory marks Washington’s fourth consecutive game won in dramatic fashion, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
McLaurin’s touchdown not only secured the win but also marked his 13th touchdown reception of the season, setting a franchise record. The Commanders will be moving to the playoffs for the first time since 2020 and have achieved their highest number of wins since 1991, signaling a promising turnaround for the franchise.
Both quarterbacks have acknowledged each other’s contributions, with Mariota serving as a mentor for Daniels. After a whirlwind few weeks that included the birth of his son, Mariota expressed gratitude for his experience and the team’s success, highlighting the importance of teamwork and support.
This remarkable turnaround for the Commanders reflects their grit and determination, coupled with a strong camaraderie within the team. Fans are hopeful as they look forward to the upcoming playoff game, inspired by the team’s fighting spirit and the unique journey of their quarterbacks.