5 major observations from Marcus Mariota's performance against the Chiefs

Marcus Mariota's exceptional first half

Considering the Washington Commanders were double-digit underdogs heading into the clash, they gave a tremendous account of themselves during the first half. The defense turned up ready to play, picking off quarterback Patrick Mahomes twice in quick succession. And Marcus Mariota had no trouble moving the ball downfield during an exceptional opening two quarters.

Aside from the interception — which was more on Deebo Samuel Sr. than the quarterback — Mariota was almost flawless. He got through his progressions quickly, made smart decisions, and trusted his weapons to make plays. His touchdown throw to wide receiver Terry McLaurin was first-class stuff, and it was expertly brought in by the pass-catcher to tie things up heading into the interval.

This was reflected in the stats. Mariota's pick was the only real blemish, but he could do absolutely nothing about that.

• 82.35 percent completion
• 155 passing yards
• 1 touchdown
• 1 interception
• 1 sack against
• 22 rushing yards (6 carries)
• 99.8 passer rating (ESPN)

There was cautious optimism and apprehension in equal measure when Jayden Daniels was ruled out. But Mariota kept things ticking over instantly, and fans of both clubs quickly discovered that this was not going to be the walkover most had envisaged beforehand.

Marcus Mariota's playmaking out of structure

One of the most apparent benefits of having Marcus Mariota as Jayden Daniels' backup is that if Washington's franchise player does miss games, Kliff Kingsbury does not have to alter his schematic concepts.

Mariota isn't as dynamic, but he's mobile enough. He is also capable of conjuring magic out of structure, which was needed more than ever against the Kansas City Chiefs once his best protector went out of the lineup.

The Commanders lost five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil to a hamstring injury — the latest in a series of glaring injuries affecting key personnel in 2025. This forced Mariota to get more creative, putting his superb pocket manipulation to good use and relying on his athleticism to extend plays when pressure inevitably arrived.

There were times when Mariota was trying to do a little too much. There was one instance when he even tried to hurdle a defender to gain extra yardage. Probably not the wisest move at his age, but it's a sign of his comfort and the trust he has in his own athleticism.

Again, it wasn't perfect all the time. However, Mariota's willingness to keep plays alive represented a major positive amid his overall performance.