3 winners (and 4 losers) from Commanders' defeat at the Eagles in Week 11
By Dean Jones
Winner No. 2
Frankie Luvu - Commanders LB
Despite the eventual outcome in Week 11 at the Philadelphia Eagles, the Washington Commanders were competitive for most of the game. This was thanks in no small part to their defensive performance before things got away from them late.
Joe Whitt Jr.'s unit is coming along nicely after a rough start. Although the Commanders didn't win on Thursday Night Football, this was an undoubted positive to take from a body blow to the team's NFC East championship hopes.
To nobody's surprise, Frankie Luvu was at the heart of everything good. The ferocious linebacker was right at the top of his game from the outset, displaying his customary explosiveness and relentless work ethic that has been a joy to watch so far this season.
Luvu eventually finished the game with 10 tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, and three quarterback hits as a result of his exceptional efforts. General manager Adam Peters made some outstanding additions in free agency. Making the former undrafted free agent out of Washington State one of the team's top priorities was arguably the best.
Loser No. 3
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels has been a revelation since the Commanders took the dynamic quarterback at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Unfortunately for everyone associated with the franchise, this was the worst output of his professional career by a considerable margin.
The typically composed Daniels looked hesitant throughout versus an outstanding Eagles defense. His running ability was negated for a second straight week. The velocity and timing associated with his distribution deserted him on the primetime stage. There was a lack of comfort within a scheme that was more conservative than usual.
This had a similar feel to Week 1 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Daniels couldn't string two passes together behind an offensive line that chose a bad time to collectively crumble. Many wondered if the rib issue was playing a part in the cold Philadelphia climate, but the Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU wasn't looking for excuses after the contest.
It was a step back for Daniels. It was also his second indifferent performance in succession. While slightly concerning, pressing the panic button would be foolish.
There's a little extra time to rest and recuperate before Washington's home game against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 12. Bouncing back is crucial.