5 winners (and 2 losers) from Commanders' win at the Bengals in Week 3

Winner No. 3

Commanders OL

It would have been easy to single someone out on the offensive line. But as a collective unit, they turned in a fantastic performance at the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 3.

Jayden Daniels doesn't do what he did in the passing game without outstanding protection. That's what the Washington Commanders provided their prized possession aside from the odd blip. They also managed to keep the pile shifting on running downs when it was crucial to churn up the clock late on.

Nick Allegretti, Sam Cosmi, and Tyler Biadasz continued their ascension into a sensational interior trio. This anchor is setting the tone for others to follow. There was also a lot to like about the offensive tackle improvements from Andrew Wylie, Cornelius Lucas, and rookie third-rounder Brandon Coleman.

It's not perfect just yet, but they largely nullified star edge rusher Trey Hendrickson. They also displayed notable progress from a discipline standpoint, which is a sign they're taking on coaching well under Dan Quinn's leadership.

If things continue similarly, Washington's protection is going to be the least of the team's problems.

Winner No. 4

Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR

After an almost anonymous contribution over the first two games, the calls to get wide receiver Terry McLaurin more involved were deafening. The Commanders duly obliged at the Cincinnati Bengals en route to the best performance of the campaign by a considerable margin.

McLaurin and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels developed a strong chemistry over the summer. Things haven't quite clicked before Week 3, but that was largely down to the signal-caller's inexperience and Kliff Kingsbury taking some pressure off during an important early transition.

The former third-round selection returned to the state where he starred in college with a bang. McLaurin set the tone with an outstanding deep ball grab that went for 55 yards in the first half. His biggest catch - a sensational touchdown grab to ice the game late - was a sign of a blossoming relationship bearing fruit in a competitive setting.

Nobody deserves a quarterback such as Daniels like McLaurin. He's endured a revolving door at football's most crucial position and still put up outstanding numbers. Hopefully, this is the start of great things ahead for the duo in 2024 and beyond.