Jayden Daniels delivered a standout performance in the Commanders' exhilarating victory over the Bengals. He completed 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing remarkable poise under pressure. His key plays included a game-winning touchdown throw to Terry McLaurin and crucial fourth-down conversions, leading Washington to a 38-33 triumph.Cincinnati, OH – As Washington backup safety Jeremy Reaves emerged from the boisterous visiting locker room, headphones on, he gestured towards quarterback Jayden Daniels and simply stated, "He's different." Defensive tackle Jon Allen echoed the sentiment, declaring, "He is the answer."
Following a remarkable performance, it’s hard to disagree. In a gripping 38-33 victory over the Bengals on "Monday Night Football," Daniels completed 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns, including a decisive 27-yard touchdown throw to Terry McLaurin while under heavy pressure.
"I think he grew up tonight," McLaurin remarked. "Seeing those kinds of throws as a rookie gives you immense confidence, and I believe his confidence is soaring right now."
With this win, Washington improved to 2-1, extending their streak to two consecutive victories and scoring on 14 straight drives that didn't end in a kneel down. Daniels has been a key factor in this early-season success, completing an impressive 80.3% of his passes over three games, amassing 662 yards and two touchdowns without any interceptions.
"He's continuing to grow on the job," said head coach Dan Quinn.
Daniels has consistently shown poise under pressure, leading a crucial field goal drive in Week 2 and throwing a touchdown pass during his last full possession against the Bengals. His teammates have consistently praised his abilities since spring practices, and their confidence in him is evident.
"The only word I can really say is hope," remarked guard Sam Cosmi when reflecting on what sets Daniels apart from previous quarterbacks. "I believe. We believe."
Daniels showcased remarkable composure, even when the play clock was winding down. His ability to manage the situation without panic has resonated with his teammates. "It's surprising how composed he is, but it’s not," said guard Nick Allegretti. "He remains calm in challenging situations, which helps stabilize the entire offense."
Daniels successfully converted three fourth downs during the game—two through the air and one on the ground. Notably, a fourth-and-2 pass to rookie Luke McCaffrey for 30 yards set up Washington's first touchdown, while a fourth-and-1 run early in the fourth quarter resulted in a field goal.
The game’s defining moment came on a critical fourth-and-4 pass from the Bengals’ 39-yard line, where Daniels delivered a pinpoint 9-yard completion to tight end Zach Ertz, preserving a narrow five-point lead.
"It's a blessing that the coaching staff has faith in me to make plays in critical moments," Daniels said. "It speaks to the entire offense's effort."
Daniels then delivered a standout play: facing an all-out blitz, he unleashed a 45-yard throw to McLaurin, who secured a 27-yard touchdown. McLaurin had requested the ball on that play, and Daniels delivered under pressure. "When we needed it most, Jayden stepped up and took a hit," McLaurin noted. "Those are significant throws for a rookie."
Interestingly, Daniels may need to negotiate for his first touchdown ball, as it went to backup tackle Trent Scott, who caught a 1-yard touchdown pass earlier in the game. "I’d want to split the ball down the middle," Scott joked, recalling his nerves about catching the pass.
Despite the high expectations, Daniels remains grounded. "It’s new for me, but I’m committed to putting in the work," he said. "What’s done in the dark will always come to light."
As Washington heads into their next matchup against Arizona, the future looks promising with Daniels at the helm.
Great Work Done
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