Anybody. Anywhere. Anytime. Commanders Tame Lions.
- Michael Campbell
- Jan 24
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Commanders Tame Lions
The motto heard around the NFL. To go along with "Why Not Us" and "Raise Hail", Washington has put the league on notice. The Dan Snyder era is officially gone. Washington has rid themselves of the toxicity that used to infest this franchise. The Josh Harris Era has begun, and what a hell of a first year to be owner.
Always the underdog, the Commanders are now in the NFC Championship game, which has been a 33 year drought (1991). The Commanders tamed the Lions to advance with a score of 45-31. They didn't have to be the Cardiac Commanders. They controlled most of the game against the Lions forcing turnovers and providing a balanced offensive attack taking advantage of a Lions defense that was not ready.
Jayden Daniels: Poise Under Pressure
Jayden Daniels played one of the most impressive games of his young career, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. As a rookie quarterback in the postseason, the pressure was immense, but Daniels responded with remarkable composure. He finished the game with 299 passing yards, 2 total touchdowns, and zero turnovers with a QBR of 122.9, showing confidence and command of the offense that belied his age.
Daniels’ ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs was a key factor in Washington’s victory. He threw one touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin on a bubble screen where Terry split two blocks and was off to the races. The other score came with a red zone TD to TE Zach Ertz, old faithful. His decision-making was top-notch, especially when facing Detroit's fierce pass rush. Daniels looked unflappable in critical moments, moving the ball efficiently and making clutch throws under pressure.
Terry McLaurin: The Playmaker
Terry McLaurin continues to prove why he’s one of the league’s premier wide receivers. In this playoff clash, McLaurin was the primary target for Daniels, finishing with 4 receptions for 87 yards and 1 touchdown. McLaurin’s ability to create separation from defenders and make contested catches was on full display.
McLaurin’s ability to stretch the field and consistently make big plays provided Daniels with a reliable option, especially on third downs. His veteran presence was invaluable in keeping the offense clicking throughout the game.
Running Back Duo: Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr.
Washington’s run game was effective and versatile, thanks to a balanced attack from Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. Ekeler, who is known for his pass-catching ability, added an important dimension to the offense, finishing with 53 rushing yards and 3 receptions for 34 yards, including a key 3rd-and-8 conversion in the fourth quarter.
Robinson, meanwhile, proved to be the physical force Washington needed to grind out tough yards. He rushed for 77 yards and scored 2 TD's including several tough runs in the second half that helped eat up clock and keep Detroit’s offense off the field.
Together, Ekeler and Robinson provided Daniels with the support needed to keep the Lions' defense guessing and maintain a well-balanced offensive attack throughout the game.
Dyami Brown: A Deep Threat
Dyami Brown was another key contributor, stretching the field and providing Daniels with a deep-ball threat. Brown finished the game with 6 receptions for 98 yards, including a 38-yard bomb from Daniels in the second quarter that set up a crucial touchdown. Brown’s ability to get behind the Lions’ defense kept their secondary on high alert, helping open up space for McLaurin and the running backs.
Pressure and Turnovers
While the offense grabbed the headlines, Washington’s defense was equally crucial in securing the win. The Commanders’ defensive line relentlessly pressured Jared Goff, sacking him two times and hitting him on numerous other occasions. The constant pressure forced Goff into mistakes, which proved to be the difference in the game.
Goff, who had been playing at an elite level all season, was rattled by Washington’s defensive front. He threw four interceptions (5 total), at critical times within the game where the Lions were gaining a bit of momentum. Mikey Sainristil had 2 of those interceptions, one in the red zone and the other on a gadget play where Jamison Williams tried to throw to another receiver but Sainristil was standing in front to catch the under thrown pass.
The Commanders' defense, led by Sainristil and a ferocious pass rush, made life difficult for Goff all day. The Lions’ offense, which had been so potent throughout the regular season, never truly found its rhythm against the relentless pressure.
Washington Commanders Look Ahead: NFC Championship vs. Philadelphia Eagles
With the win, Washington advances to the NFC Championship Game, where they will face their division rival, the Philadelphia Eagles, for a chance to go to the Super Bowl. The Eagles, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, have been one of the most dominant teams in the NFC all season. Their high-powered offense and stingy defense will be a tough challenge for the Commanders.
However, after this victory, the Commanders should have plenty of confidence. Jayden Daniels’ poise in the pocket and his ability to make plays under pressure will be crucial in keeping up with the Eagles' offense. Terry McLaurin and the running back duo of Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. will need to continue their strong performances, while Washington’s defense must find a way to slow down Hurts and his playmaking ability.
The NFC Championship promises to be aggressive and emotional, and if Washington continues to play with the same focus, discipline, and intensity they showed against Detroit, they’ll have a legitimate shot at making history and advancing to the Super Bowl.
Final Score: Washington Commanders 45, Detroit Lions 31
Next Game: NFC Championship – Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles, January 26, 2025
The Commanders are now just one game away from reaching the Super Bowl. It’s been a wild ride, and with Jayden Daniels leading the way, Washington is ready for their next challenge. Let’s see if they can finish the job and secure a Super Bowl berth. Why Not Us!
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