The Washington Commanders pulled off a stunning upset over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Wild Card round, winning 23-20 on a last-second 37-yard field goal by Zane Gonzalez. It marked the Commanders’ first playoff win since 2006 and ended the Bucs’ season in heartbreaking fashion.
Commanders Ride Rookie QB to Victory
Washington’s win was fueled by an impressive performance from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Making his playoff debut, Daniels showed remarkable poise, completing 24 of 35 passes for 268 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also rushed for 36 yards, keeping plays alive with his mobility.
The biggest difference for Daniels compared to his Week 1 loss to Tampa? Keeping his eyes downfield when scrambling. It led to multiple key conversions, like a 9-yard pass to tight end Zach Ertz on 3rd and 6 from deep in Commanders territory. Daniels looked nothing like a rookie under the bright playoff lights.
Game-Changing Fumble Recovery
After the Commanders were stuffed on 4th and goal from the 3-yard line early in the 4th quarter, it looked like the Bucs had seized momentum. But on the very next play, Baker Mayfield fumbled the handoff exchange and Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner pounced on it at the Tampa 13.
Given new life, Washington made the most of their second chance. On 4th and goal from the 5, Daniels found receiver Terry McLaurin for the go-ahead touchdown and a 20-17 lead with 9:46 remaining. It was a gutsy call by Coach Ron Rivera that paid off.
Tampa’s Costly Decision to Kick
Trailing 20-17, the Buccaneers drove into the red zone with under 5 minutes left. Facing a 4th and 3 from the Washington 14-yard line, Tampa head coach Todd Bowles opted for a game-tying field goal rather than go for it.
Analytics showed the Bucs had a 46% win probability by going for it compared to 44% by kicking. The conservative decision came back to bite them, as the Commanders promptly marched down the field for the winning score, aided by chunk passing plays and questionable Tampa penalties.
“I’m so proud of the resiliency and fight of this team. To get our first playoff win in this fashion, in a hostile road environment, it’s incredibly special.”
– Commanders Head Coach Ron Rivera
Commanders Defense Steps Up
While Daniels shined, the unsung heroes were Washington’s defense. They held Tampa’s high-powered offense to 284 total yards and came up with the crucial fumble recovery. The Commanders sacked Tom Brady three times and forced two turnovers.
- Holding Mike Evans in Check: The Commanders limited star Bucs receiver Mike Evans to 7 catches for 92 yards despite his success against CB Marshon Lattimore.
- Third Down Dominance: Washington’s defense got off the field, holding Tampa to just 4 of 13 on third down conversions.
Anatomy of the Game-Winning Drive
After Tampa tied it at 20-20, Washington took over at their own 25-yard line with 4:02 remaining. Daniels led a masterful final drive, completing crucial passes while managing the clock:
- 21-yard pass to Curtis Samuel
- 18-yard pass to Terry McLaurin
- 8-yard pass to Jahan Dotson
- 9-yard run by Brian Robinson Jr.
- Two kneel downs to center the ball and run clock down to :04
Kicker Zane Gonzalez trotted out for a 37-yard game-winning attempt with :04 left. The kick sailed through the uprights as time expired, sending the Commanders into a euphoric celebration as they secured their first playoff win in 19 years in the most dramatic way possible.
“I still can’t believe it. What a way to get our first playoff win. I love these guys so much.”
– Commanders Quarterback Jayden Daniels
With the stunning victory, the Washington Commanders move on to the divisional round, while the Buccaneers head into an offseason of uncertainty. But for one magical night in Tampa, it was the Commanders who found a way to win, authoring the first chapter of what they hope will be a memorable playoff run.
