Jayden Daniels' exceptional first half
The Washington Commanders needed to impose themselves right from the outset. Nerves were jangling among the fanbase with the Los Angeles Rams posing a serious threat to their playoff hopes. Thankfully, Jayden Daniels provided a real sense of calm when needed most.
Daniels was nothing short of exceptional in the first half. He commanded proceedings extremely well, put his impressive mobility on full display, and came through for his team in critical moments. This settled everyone down and gave the Commanders a two-touchdown advantage at the half-time break.
This was reflected in Daniels' first-half stats. It wasn't perfect, but it was pretty close to it from the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year favorite.
- 89.47 percent completion
- 140 passing yards
- 2 passing touchdowns
- 0 interceptions
- 5 sacks against
- 20 rushing yards
- 132.5 passer rating (ESPN)
There is complete confidence in and from Daniels throughout. His competitive fire inspires others. They know when a big play is needed, the quarterback will always come through when it counts.
If Daniels had any nervous energy coming into the game, he didn't show it.
Jayden Daniels' elite connection
The Commanders were without Noah Brown and recently acquired wide receiver K.J. Osborn in this one. They also lost veteran tight end Zach Ertz in the second quarter to a concussion. To say Jayden Daniels' weapons in the passing game are thin on the ground would be an understatement.
This increases dependability on an elite connection — the only one at Daniels' disposal right now. That, of course, is Pro Bowl pass-catcher Terry McLaurin.
Daniels is the quarterback McLaurin's been waiting for. It's no surprise to see the receiver putting up career numbers across the board with a genuine franchise-caliber presence under center for the first time. Despite getting plenty of attention from the New Orleans Saints secondary, this tandem still found a way to produce the goods.
McLaurin eventually finished the game with seven receptions for 73 receiving yards. He brought in a sensational touchdown catch early on and added another later in the first half. Daniels is helping the Ohio State product enter the All-Pro conversation — something that needs to continue over the next three contests as Washington looks to make the postseason.