The Washington Commanders have a huge challenge ahead of them. They've done remarkably well to reach the Divisional Round stage. Beating the Detroit Lions on the road is a different test entirely.
Detroit is among the Super Bowl favorites for good reason. They are the No. 1 seed in the NFC and have a tremendous locker room culture spearheaded by head coach Dan Campbell. Considering the Lions could be losing Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn to head coaching positions during this hiring cycle, there is real urgency to maximize this window of opportunity.
The Commanders are heavy underdogs with sportsbooks, which isn't surprising. Their backs are against the wall and almost nobody is giving them a chance to reach the NFC Conference championship game. However, head coach Dan Quinn installed a level of belief and professionalism in this squad that guarantees they are never out of the fight.
And with rookie sensation Jayden Daniels under center, the Commanders have a legitimate closer capable of coming through when the lights are brightest.
This is going to take a collective effort. The Commanders have no room for passengers versus this formidable adversary. Everyone must perform up to or above the level expected. There is no next time — this is win-or-go-home in a hostile environment.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders players on the hot seat at the Lions. We'll begin with defensive tackle Daron Payne.
Commanders players on the hot seat entering Divisional Round at the Lions
Daron Payne - Commanders DT
The Washington Commanders got a stroke of good fortune on the injury front with the news that prolific Detroit Lions interior offensive lineman Kevin Zeitler won't feature. Rookie Christian Mahogany is expected to take his place, which represents a potential weak link the defensive line interior must exploit.
Daron Payne comes under the microscope. The former first-round pick has to play well in this one. Much will depend on how much he'll be able to do after suffering a gruesome dislocated finger at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but if he's on the field, he'll be expected to contribute.
Payne has underachieved considering his price tag and expectations before the campaign. He was playing well at Raymond James Stadium before getting hurt, which is positive. But holding firm against the Lions' devastating rushing tandem of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs is easier said than done.
The Commanders need Payne to become the dominant force that saw him make the Pro Bowl in 2022. Anything less is going to come with grave consequences attached.