The new regime in Washington has delivered an immediate return, advancing to the playoffs with a 30-24 overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to Zach Ertz in overtime, securing the team’s first playoff appearance since 2020.
The Commanders’ win not only clinches their own playoff berth but also guarantees a NFC West title and a playoff spot for the Los Angeles Rams due to the strength of schedule tiebreaker over the Seattle Seahawks. This marks the franchise’s first playoff appearance since 2020, with the goal of securing their first postseason win since the 2005 season.
The team’s revival can be attributed to the new general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, who were tasked with reviving the franchise. One of their first key decisions was drafting Daniels second overall and handing him the starting reins from the beginning of the season. The rookie QB has led the team to an 11-5 record, putting him in the mix for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
The Commanders’ 11-5 season marks the team’s first winning record since 2016, and just one year after finishing second to last in the league. They will now play more football beyond the regular season, seeking to break their postseason drought.
