Dan Quinn gets an overwhelming reaction as the Commanders’ poor performance comes to an abrupt end

The pressure was on in Week 13 against the Tennessee Titans. To say that the Washington Commanders answered the call would be a massive understatement.

Dan Quinn’s team had lost three games and their postseason ambitions were hanging by a thread. After such a promising start to the campaign, they have looked tired and uninspired in recent weeks. Many wondered if this was a step too far for the group after expectations had risen significantly.

A home loss to the Titans before the bye week was not an option. It was a high-risk situation as the team’s margin for error was virtually exhausted. They showed tremendous determination to blow Tennessee away in the opening game.

The Commanders showed a sensational performance in all phases from the start. They immediately imposed their will, causing two crucial ball losses and showing the execution that had been sorely lacking throughout their crisis. Tennessee had no answer at all, leaving Brian Callahan’s team in complete shock and exiting the game with just over ten minutes left in the second quarter.

From the commanders’ perspective, this was much more likely to be the case. They were aggressive and desperate to impress. What was remarkable was the determination to fly across the field in defense and to set everything in motion on offense. Even special forces got involved when undrafted free agent Tyler Owens forced a fumble.

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was at his best, rushing for a score and also connecting with Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin for two touchdowns to put the exclamation point on the blistering start to the contest.

It was a perfect opening that you can’t find anywhere else in the league. Any concerns some fans may have had about this team and whether they would be able to compete this season have no doubt been dispelled.

There is still a lot of life in this group. Make no mistake there.

That was exactly the answer Quinn was looking for. The head coach remained calm during Washington’s most turbulent period since he took office. He is experienced enough to know what can happen when panic sets in. His calm approach effectively translates to his players, if their stunning start in Week 13 at Northwest Stadium is any indication.

Washington is talented. They may not be ready to compete with the elite teams yet, but if they keep playing like this until the end, Quinn’s men will be able to take on anyone.

What matters is not how you get knocked down, but how you get back up.

Fans learned a lot about the internal struggle within the Commanders – a trend that will hopefully continue in the future.

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