5 bold predictions for Commanders QB Jayden Daniels in Week 5 vs. Browns
By Dean Jones
Jayden Daniels plays turnover-free football
This doesn't sound like a bold prediction when one examines how protective Jayden Daniels has been with the football so far. However, this Cleveland Browns defense is a different animal to anything he's encountered during his fledgling NFL career to date.
The Browns' defense is no slouch by any stretch of the imagination. They have a devastating defensive front, explosive linebackers, and accomplished cornerbacks. That's a dangerous combination that Daniels or the Washington Commanders cannot take lightly.
Daniels must protect the football at all costs, which is something he's accomplished with aplomb through four weeks of the campaign. He's got an extra large bullseye on his back after so much adulation from the national media. That will give the Browns an extra sense of urgency to derail this hype train and get themselves above .500 along the way.
If Daniels comes away from this one with no turnovers to his name, the Commanders will be in a strong position to keep their fairytale start going. But even if he does throw an interception, the player's already shown an ability to shrug it off quickly and move on to the next drive.
Jayden Daniels gains 250+ passing yards
Gaining yards through the air might be a difficult proposition for Jayden Daniels in Week 5. The Cleveland Browns boast a productive pass defense that can lock up wide receivers and capitalize on any mistakes. This will result in finer margins and more complex looks for Washington's signal-caller to navigate.
The Browns are giving up 175.8 yards per game through the air, which is ranked No. 10 around the league. Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II are two of the best at their respective crafts. We've already spoken about edge rusher Myles Garrett and his ability to wreck any game plan when firing on all cylinders.
Daniels' over/under for passing yards stands at 203.5 with most sportsbooks. That would be a good achievement versus this caliber of defense if he can also generate yards on the ground and rely on the rushing attack to set the tone over the opening exchanges.
However, if Daniels can turn on the style once again and get to around 250 passing yards, it could propel the signal-caller into legitimate early NFL MVP consideration. Something that would be beyond any fan's wildest dreams just five games into his professional journey.