Overtime, Washington defeated Atlanta 30-24 thanks to Jayden Daniels. On top of his 127 rushing yards, he passed for 227 and scored three touchdowns. The Commanders’ postseason position was assured with the victory. After the loss, the Falcons’ chances of winning the NFC South were ruined.
Notable Outcomes from Players
Zach Ertz of the Washington Redskins caught two touchdown passes, the last of which came in overtime. With 85 yards and a score, Olamide Zaccheaus was the beneficiary. Running back Bijan Robinson of Atlanta kept up his impressive season with 90 yards and two scores. One touchdown and one interception were thrown by Michael Penix Jr. for 223 yards.
Player Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jayden Daniels | Washington Commanders | Quarterback | 24/36 completions, 227 passing yards, 3 TDs, 127 rushing yards |
| Zach Ertz | Washington Commanders | Tight End | 7 receptions, 78 yards, 2 TDs |
| Olamide Zaccheaus | Washington Commanders | Wide Receiver | 8 receptions, 85 yards, 1 TD |
| Michael Penix Jr. | Atlanta Falcons | Quarterback | 19/35 completions, 223 passing yards, 1 TD, 1 INT |
| Bijan Robinson | Atlanta Falcons | Running Back | 13 carries, 90 rushing yards, 2 TDs |
Game Recaps
- The game-winning 2-yard throw to Ertz was set up by Daniels’ 42-yard overtime run.
- A 12-play drive, spearheaded by Penix Jr., tied the game at 24-24 with 1:19 remaining.
- Unfortunately, Riley Patterson’s 56-yard field goal attempt was unsuccessful with the clock ticking down.
- Overall, the Commanders gained 412 yards compared to 337 for Atlanta.
- With the ball for 41:32 minutes, Washington had complete control of the situation.
Game-Changing Moments
At halftime, Washington was behind 17-7, but they came back. The score was turned around to 24-17 as Daniels completed a pair of touchdown passes. After a throw from Penix Jr. to Kyle Pitts, the Falcons were able to tie the game with 1:19 remaining. When Atlanta failed to convert a field goal, the game was over for them.
Implications of the Game
- By shattering Washington’s rookie rushing record, Daniels displayed his dual-threat abilities.
- After halftime, Bijan Robinson’s explosive beginning faltered, and he ended the game with just 8 yards.
- After halftime, Washington’s defense refocused and gave up just one touchdown.
- The offensive line for the Commanders had a rough game, allowing 31 yards on five sacks.
Effects on the Playoffs
By advancing to 11-5, Washington secured a spot in the wild card round. Falling to 8-8, Atlanta must now win or hope that the Buccaneers lose in order to qualify for the playoffs. With a victory over Dallas in the last game, the Commanders have a chance to climb to the sixth seed.
Impressive Track Record and Accomplishments
- This season, Daniels ran for 864 yards, which is a new rookie record for the organization.
- After Ertz passed the 8,000-yard receiving mark, he became only the ninth tight end in NFL history to do so.
- It was a first for Falcons wide receiver Drake London, who surpassed 1,000 receiving yards.
Future Video Games
- With a better playoff spot in mind, Washington takes on Dallas.
- To be in the playoff hunt, Atlanta must win their home game against Carolina and hope that Tampa Bay loses.
