The Washington Commanders led the New Orleans Saints 14-0 at halftime of Sunday’s game from the Caesars Superdome. Much of Washington’s offensive success was due to the right arm and legs of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The Commanders were in cruise control but struggled in the second half. They held on for a 20-19 victory, improving to 9-5 in the process. It almost didn’t happen.
Washington led 20-13 with under two minutes remaining when the Saints drove down the field to either tie or win the game. Unfortunately for the Commanders, the officials didn’t stop the clock with under 10 seconds remaining, allowing New Orleans one more chance at a game-tying touchdown.
The officiating crew’s assist allowed the Saints to score, making it 20-19. Instead of aiming for a tie and overtime, interim coach Darren Rizzi went for the win. However, the pass fell incomplete, and Washington escaped the Big Easy with a much-needed win.
Daniels, who was phenomenal, completed 25 of 31 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns while leading the Commanders in rushing with 66 yards.
So, what was Daniels thinking when the Saints went for the two-point conversion and the win?
“S–t, I was just hoping we would win,” Daniels told reporters after the game.
Daniels was every Washington fan at that point. Going from a game that looked like a potential blowout to coming down to the wire was the type of drama the Commanders hoped was behind them.
Daniels took responsibility for the close game, believing he and the offense needed to be better with the details.
