5 winners (and 2 losers) from Commanders' success at the NY Giants in Week 9
By Dean Jones
Loser No. 2
Commanders contain defense
Despite Daniel Jones' struggles this season, the quarterback produces the goods versus the Washington Commanders. No matter how badly he's playing, the much-maligned signal-caller always comes up with the goods against his NFC East rival.
That looked like something Jones was going to accomplish once again in Week 9. This came thanks in no small part to his escapability and a frustrating prowess to gain yards on the ground.
Washington's defense had no answer for Jones early on. Jones was breaking contain almost constantly during the opening exchanges and eventually finished the game with 54 rushing yards from just seven carries. The main reason why this was neutralized came thanks to the Commanders' offense, who put points on the board quickly to accumulate a formidable advantage.
Joe Whitt Jr. is a no-nonsense coach who knows how to get his message across. He won't be happy with how many times Jones got out of the pocket to make plays. This is something to clean up quickly over the second half of 2024.
Winner No. 5
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels is the man. There's no doubt about that whatsoever after another polished performance with the spotlight glaring in Week 9.
The quarterback looked a lot healthier this week. Daniels' rib issue continues to get treatment during games, but there was more zip in his throws at the New York Giants. He also looked more comfortable navigating the pocket and gaining yards on the ground when opportunities arose.
Daniels was clinical in the red zone, finding Terry McLaurin for a pair of touchdown strikes and also driving down the field for a Washington rushing score that came courtesy of Austin Ekeler.
Just when it looked like the Giants could make this a close contest down the stretch, Daniels had the poise and flawless composure to see the game out with minimal fuss. He made critical throws in key moments, got the Commanders within touching distance of the goal line, and went into victory formation to seal another memorable success.
The LSU product will get a stern test of his credentials next weekend against the Pittsburgh Steelers. But the momentum building around Daniels and the Commanders continues to blossom encouragingly.