The Washington Commanders pulled off a thrilling win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday in the Wild Card round.
Kicker Zane Gonzalez made a 37-yard field goal that hit the upright before bouncing through to give the team a 23-20 victory. The kick ended a 19-year wait for a playoff win for the Commanders.
The dramatic play had everyone on edge, and the emotions carried through the sideline and the stands. A video shared by NFL on X captured the moment, including reactions from teammates and coaches.
Cornerback Kevon Seymour quickly encouraged Gonzalez after the close call.
“It doesn’t matter. It went in. Good job, baby,” Seymour said.
Gonzalez responded humbly when head coach Dan Quinn praised him.
“Better to be lucky than good,” he said.
Fans also got to hear the Commanders’ radio call of the moment, which highlighted the significance of the kick.
“The Cardiac Commanders are the Clutch Commanders!” one announcer shouted, capturing the excitement of the team’s success.
Quinn later admitted how nerve-wracking it was to watch.
“It was like seeing something spill in slow motion and just hoping it doesn’t ruin everything,” he said after the game.
“When it went in, it was a huge relief.”
With their 12-5 regular season record, per ESPN, the Commanders now turn their focus to the divisional round, where they will face the Detroit Lions.
For now, one thing is clear: Zane Gonzalez’s steady kicks under pressure proved his value on the field.