Limited Washington’s offensive prowess to all three phases of the play by dominating their defensive front. They encountered the difficulty of playing without their star quarterback, Jayden Daniels, who is out with a knee injury. Beat writer Dan Quinn joined the team in 1994 for the Journal Newspapers, then the Washington Examiner. His ability to formulate a game plan that allowed the team to excel, despite Daniels’ unclear availability, was masterful.
Daniels, whose dynamic ability was the sparkplug for the Commanders explosive offense a year ago, had set the bar high entering his second season. His injury was always going to be a high hurdle, but the Commanders have proven very difficult to beat even without him. They have even weathered the storm in games with Daniels out. That means their team depth and flexibility will be key as they continue deeper into the season.
Marcus Mariota stole the show in a brilliant performance. It was his first start since Week 13 of the 2022 season with Atlanta. He dazzled in game action, going 48-for-62 with a dazzling 573 yards and five TDs. The new low Mariota’s performance is now responsible for nine quarters of thoroughly mediocre football as the starter for the Commanders.
Due to the importance of this game, Marcus Mariota had a full-supporting cast of friends and family members in the stands. His familiarity with the pressure of starting, combined with a strong supporting cast, helped him perform at a high level. The team’s ability to execute plays effectively, coupled with Mariota’s experience, played a crucial role in their offensive success.
“Everybody knows he’s the pro. And how he carries himself, he’s been doing this a long time. We just had 100% faith in him.” – Jacory Croskey-Merritt
Beyond producing a massive upset, the Commanders’ victory brought to light their ability to play as a team — step up when someone can’t. That flexibility has been key to their ultimate survival in an ongoing environment. Under Quinn’s direction, the team has fought incredulity to stay above water, instilling swagger in their players and hope in their fans.
The Washington Commanders have a tougher road ahead as they get set to visit Atlanta on Sunday. The match-up, a rematch in fact, will test their capacity to keep firing on all cylinders without Daniels. It’ll provide them an opportunity to evaluate Mariota’s potential as a long-term QB solution.
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