Dan Quinn gets blistering response as Commanders' poor run abruptly ends

The pressure was on in Week 13 against the Tennessee Titans. To say the Washington Commanders answered the call would be a huge understatement.

Dan Quinn's men were on a three-game losing run with their postseason aspirations hanging by a thread. They looked tired and devoid of inspiration in recent weeks after such a promising start to the campaign. Many wondered if this was a step too far for the group after expectations rose considerably.

Losing at home to the Titans before their bye week was not an option. This was a high-stakes situation with the team's margin for error all but gone. They demonstrated tremendous resolve to blow Tennessee away during the opening exchanges.

Commanders' sensational start was sorely needed after poor run

The Commanders were nothing short of sensational in all phases right out of the gate. They imposed their will immediately, caused two pivotal turnovers, and displayed the execution that had been sorely lacking throughout their slump. Tennessee had no answer whatsoever, leaving Brian Callahan's squad shell-shocked and out of the game with a little more than 10 minutes remaining in the second quarter.

This was much more like it from the Commanders' standpoint. They were aggressive and eager to impress. The determination was notable, flying around the field on defense and making things happen on offense. Even the special teams unit got in on the act when undrafted free agent Tyler Owens forced a fumble.

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was at his brilliant best, rushing for a score and also finding Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin for two touchdowns to put the exclamation point on their blistering opening to the contest.

It was as close to a perfect opening as you'll find anywhere in the league. Any concerns some fans may have had about this team and whether they'd run their race this season were alleviated in no uncertain terms.

There is plenty of life left in this group. Make no mistake about that.

This was the exact response Quinn was looking for. The head coach remained composed amid Washington's most turbulent stretch since he took charge. He's experienced enough to know what can happen if panic sets in. His calm approach transitioned effectively to his players if their eye-popping start in Week 13 at Northwest Stadium is any indication.

Washington is talented. They might not be ready to compete with the elite teams just yet, but if they play like this the rest of the way, Quinn's men will be a match for anybody.

It's not how you get knocked down, it's how you get back up.

Fans found out plenty about the inner fight within the Commanders - a trend they hope continues long into the future.

More Commanders news and analysis