The Washington Commanders have proven time and time again this season that they are a match for anybody. That was no more evident than a devastating two-play sequence that turned their Divisional Round game at the Detroit Lions on its head.
Washington made an outstanding start. The offense controlled proceedings and kept things ticking over. Defensively it wasn't great, but they did manage to create a turnover thanks to a strip sack from Dorance Armstrong Jr. that was jumped on by linebacker Frankie Luvu.
Then, everything changed.
Commanders turned the tide with sensational two-play sequence
And all it took was two plays to tip the scales in Washington's favor.
First, it was who else but Terry McLaurin. The second-team All-Pro caught a pass from Jayden Daniels and proceeded to showcase a devastating stiff arm followed by his customary explosiveness for a 58-yard touchdown.
THAT'S ONE SCARY MAN.
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) January 19, 2025
📺 #WASvsDET FOX pic.twitter.com/nldySEaU2C
McLaurin is gaining national recognition at long last. This propelled him to a completely different level.
It got even better for the Commanders soon after. Just when the defense looked like they were having a hard time figuring out the Lions, safety Quan Martin came up with an interception and took it to the house.
PICK FREAKIN' 6
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) January 19, 2025
📺 #WASvsDET FOX pic.twitter.com/K8PTcDMpVC
The once raucous Ford Field went eerily silent. And it typified the Commanders' never-say-die spirit with head coach Dan Quinn leading the charge.
As has been the case throughout the campaign, the Lions responded positively even without quarterback Jared Goff on the field. Detroit got the football into Jameson Wlliams' hands and he took off, avoiding tacklers and bursting his way into the end zone to reduce the deficit.
And just like that, we had an instant classic on our hands. But the Commanders were matching the NFC's No. 1 seed every step of the way.