Loser No. 3
Brian Robinson Jr. - Commanders RB
The Washington Commanders couldn't get much going on the ground in this one. Marcus Mariota and Jayden Daniels were the primary options in the run game, which wasn't ideal considering the Dallas Cowboys run defense has been nothing short of woeful for the most part this season.
This was another underwhelming effort from Brian Robinson Jr. The former third-round selection struggled to generate early momentum and gained just 10 rushing yards from five carries before he became an afterthought.
Robinson's impressive form earlier in the campaign has deserted him. He lacks field vision and his physical presence waned as the grueling punishment took its toll. The player must get things together, and quickly, in pursuit of a more profitable contribution at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when the postseason rolls around.
Overcoming adversity is nothing new to Robinson throughout his eventful NFL journey to date. He needs to show the correct resolve and impose himself when called upon at Raymond James Stadium. The Commanders have to control the clock on the road to maintain offensive balance and frustrate the crowd. Nothing else will do.
Robinson's role is integral. Getting back to the form of old is paramount next weekend.
Winner No. 4
Marcus Mariota - Commanders QB
Marcus Mariota's role behind the scenes became a significant asset to the Commanders. The veteran quarterback knew he wasn't going to play much once Jayden Daniels transitioned so seamlessly. Taking on the role of mentor benefitted the first-year signal-caller enormously.
The Commanders allowed Mariota to shine in the second half when Daniels experienced some mild soreness in his leg. Taking him out of the firing line was the correct call. It also sparked Washington into life.
Mariota brought a sense of urgency and surprise that the Cowboys weren't ready for. He was accurate with the football, gained yards on the ground when the situation dictated, and converted his red zone opportunities into touchdowns for good measure. His last-second touchdown to Terry McLaurin is a testament to his poise and composure in key moments.
This was an outstanding performance from Mariota and nobody was more thrilled than Daniels on the sideline. The former Oregon standout completed 83.33 percent of his passes for 161 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions. He also accumulated 56 yards and one score on the ground en route to a sensational 96.4 QBR out of a possible 100.
More importantly, this strengthened the player's chances of getting a new deal in Washington or an opportunity to start elsewhere when free agency rolls around.