It's done.
The Washington Commanders booked their place in the playoffs thanks to a dramatic overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17 on Sunday Night Football. This represents a significant accomplishment for head coach Dan Quinn in Year 1 of his tenure — one not even the brightest optimist envisaged before competitive action began in 2024.
Gaining 11 wins was the best-case scenario in no uncertain terms. It's been decades since the Commanders reached this total and had such positivity surrounding the franchise. That's a testament to the hard work behind the scenes and the remarkable impact made by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
There was an unusual calm across Northwest Stadium when the Falcons forced overtime in the closing stages. Daniels' composed demeanor and supreme focus had a ripple effect on everyone. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft duly delivered in the clutch once again to get Washington over the hump.
It was a night that no Washington fan will forget in a hurry. However, there are still some things to figure out despite the Commanders cementing their spot in the knockout rounds.
The NFC playoff picture has more twists and turns to come following an enthralling few days of action over the festive period. Washington's win came with significant ramifications attached for good or bad where other contenders were concerned. They are also looking up rather than over their shoulders for the first time in weeks.
Let's take a look at how things stand after Week 17.
Commanders' 2024 NFC playoff standing after thrilling Week 17 win
- Detroit Lions (NFC North): 14-2
- Philadelphia Eagles (NFC East): 13-3
- Los Angeles Rams (NFC West): 10-6
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFC South): 9-7
- Minnesota Vikings (NFC North): 14-2
- Washington Commanders (NFC East): 11-5
- Green Bay Packers (NFC North): 11-5
In the hunt:
- Atlanta Falcons (NFC South): 8-8
The shift was seismic. Washington now holds the sixth seed after beating the Falcons and the Green Bay Packers lost at the Minnesota Vikings. This means that a final-day success over the Dallas Cowboys will seal the spot.
Atlanta isn't out of it with one game left. However, they need to win and hope the New Orleans Saints can somehow dig deep to beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Things are also tight at the top. The Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions are in a straight fight for the No. 1 seed. And it just so happens that the fierce NFC North rivals play each other in Week 18.
The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up the NFC East division crown as expected. But looking at the Commanders' rapid ascension under the new regime, they might not have this prestigious distinction for much longer.
Current playoff games entering Week 18:
- Green Bay Packers (7) vs. Philadelphia Eagles (2)
- Washington Commanders (6) vs. Los Angeles Rams (3)
- Minnesota Vikings (5) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4)
- Bye week: Detroit Lions
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