Jayden Daniels
is primed to make a significant impact against the top-seeded Detroit Lions in their own stadium, Detroit.
For many, a first-year NFL quarterback making it to the playoffs is a sign that they’ve outgrown their rookie status. By the time the postseason arrives, opponents have had an entire season to analyze your tape, and the pressure of the game is a whole new level compared to the regular season.
However, Jayden Daniels, quarterback for the Washington Commanders, challenges that notion. After being selected as the second overall pick in the 2024 draft, Daniels displayed maturity far beyond his years during the regular season. He completed 69.0% of his passes for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns, nine interceptions, and a passer rating of 100.1, ranking among the top 10 quarterbacks. On top of his passing performance, Daniels rushed 148 times for 891 yards (6.0 yards per carry) and six touchdowns, showcasing an exceptional dual-threat ability that exceeded typical rookie expectations.
In Washington’s 23-20 wildcard win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Daniels elevated his game even further. He threw for 268 yards and two touchdowns, completing 24 of 35 attempts, without an interception, and posted a passer rating of 110.2. He also ran for 36 yards on 13 attempts, converting several key plays despite the Buccaneers’ defensive efforts to attack him both as a passer and a runner.
Daniels handled Tampa Bay’s blitzes with poise, demonstrating an advanced understanding of defensive schemes. One notable example came early in the game on a 35-yard completion to Terry McLaurin, where Daniels recognized a complicated blitz, adjusted his play, and executed the throw with ease.
Despite being pressured on 15 of his 40 dropbacks, Daniels still managed to complete seven of 12 passes for 97 yards and both touchdown passes under duress, earning a passer rating of 123.1. As the game neared its climax, Daniels was called upon to extend drives with his legs, such as a crucial four-yard run on third-and-two with just 55 seconds remaining. His ability to avoid a would-be tackle by defensive lineman Calijah Kancey and secure the first down was a testament to his composure under pressure. Following a kneel-down, the Commanders secured their first playoff victory since 2005.
The Commanders’ success in key third and fourth-down situations, with Daniels playing a major role, highlighted the team’s confidence in their quarterback. “We were bold, but not reckless,” said head coach Dan Quinn. “You have to trust that your quarterback is ready for the moment.” This trust has been affirmed by comparisons of Daniels to former MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes, underlining his exceptional skill set.
Now, Daniels faces a significant challenge in the upcoming game against the Detroit Lions, the top team in the NFC. While Washington’s defense may be a weak point, Detroit’s defense may struggle to contain Daniels’ unique abilities. The Lions have favored man-to-man coverage, using it on nearly 45% of defensive snaps, which Daniels has excelled against. He has completed 75 of 134 passes for 987 yards, nine touchdowns, one interception, and a passer rating of 98.7 when facing man coverage.
Furthermore, the Lions often blitz, sending five or more pass rushers 36% of the time, the fifth-highest rate in the league. Daniels has proven to be highly effective against the blitz, completing 39 of 67 passes for 565 yards, five touchdowns, and a passer rating of 110.6. Daniels’ rushing ability also poses a significant threat, particularly given Detroit’s struggles against quarterback runs. The Lions’ defense has allowed a high number of rushing yards, including 449 yards and six touchdowns on quarterback runs, with an average of 6.6 yards per carry, ranking among the worst in the NFL.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell is fully aware of the challenges Daniels presents. “He is dangerous,” Campbell remarked, praising Daniels for his ability to read the field, extend plays with his legs, and make quick decisions in the pocket. With a solid supporting cast around him, including a strong offensive line and weapons like Terry McLaurin, Daniels has shown he can make a major difference on the field.
The upcoming game against Detroit will be another test for the rookie-turned-playoff-star, where Daniels’ ability to make a difference in crucial moments will once again be on display.
