Commanders secure the playoff spot against the Falcons

The Washington Commanders are going to the playoffs.

Jayden Daniels punched the franchise’s ticket to the postseason for the first time since 2020 thanks to a touchdown against Zach Ertz in overtime, securing a 30-24 win over the Atlanta Falcons.

Daniels was exceptional for the second straight game, providing crucial moments when the Commanders needed him most. He finished the night with 354 total yards of offense and three passing touchdowns. He had 127 on the ground, which helped him surpass Robert Griffin III for the most rushing yards by a rookie in NFL history.

Trailing 17-7 at halftime, the Commanders scored back-to-back shots on goal, each lasting seven minutes. The Falcons still had a chance to win in regulation thanks to a touchdown pass from Michael Penix Jr. to Kyle Pitts. A few minutes later, Riley Patterson was in range for a 56-yard field goal, but his shot fell just short.

The Falcons never got the ball again. The Commanders won the coin toss in overtime and recovered the ball 70 yards in 12 plays. Daniels accounted for 69 of those yards.

Thanks to their 11th win for the first time since 1991 and the Green Bay Packers’ loss to the Minnesota Vikings, the Commanders are now in control of the No. 6 seed. They must win on the road against the Dallas Cowboys to retain that spot in the postseason.

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