Loser No. 2
Commanders run game
One of the biggest disappointments for the Washington Commanders in recent weeks centers on their rushing attack. Jayden Daniels aside, the ground game has been largely ineffective over the second half of 2024. This trend continued at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Buccaneers have a good run defense, so it was always going to be difficult. Washington's offensive line struggled to cope with Pro Bowl nose tackle Vita Vea and impressive young defensive lineman Calijah Kancey. They got no push and the likes of Briian Robinson Jr. couldn't compensate.
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury didn't go away from the run, which kept Tampa Bay's defense honest if nothing else. However, gaining 82 from 33 carries — that's 2.5 yards per carry for those keeping score — is nowhere near the required standard.
That was just enough to get one over on the Buccaneers. Daniels spearheaded another remarkable comeback and Zane Gonzalez got a gift from Lady Luck to confirm Washington's place in the divisional round. This will be their final stop unless the run game finds a way to impose themselves against the Detroit Lions.
Ford Field is going to be loud, intimidating, and everything in between. Setting the tempo and controlling the clock is key. Robinson needs to step up. Otherwise, the Commanders could be in the market for another starting running back when the offseason arrives.
Winner No. 5
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
The Commanders have a superstar on their hands in Jayden Daniels. He's proven as much on countless occasions this season. All the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft needs is an opportunity to come through in the clutch.
You wouldn't know that this was Daniels' first taste of NFL playoff football. His calmness, poise, and precision defied his lack of professional experience. This is not your average rookie. There is no disputing that now.
When the game is on the line, Daniels thrives. He's made for the biggest moments and the highest stakes. There were some missed throws, especially in the red zone, but it was another outstanding outing aside from that.
Daniels dragged the Commanders kicking and screaming into the next stage. He was in complete control from start to finish. He handled things effectively pre-snap and coped well with Todd Bowles' exotic blitz packages and disguised coverages. The Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU trusted himself — and his teammates when needed — to produce the goods.
Just how much longer Daniels' remarkable first campaign in the pros goes on from here is anyone's guess. Regardless of how things unfold at the Detroit Lions, the Commanders can relax safe in the knowledge that the sky is the limit with the dynamic dual-threat quarterback leading the charge.
What a player. What a night.
More Commanders news and analysis
feed