Commanders Break 19-Year Curse, But Their Sights Are Already Set on Detroit’s Challenge!

After securing their first playoff victory in 19 years, the Washington Commanders are back to business as they prepare for a tough challenge against the NFC-leading Detroit Lions. The excitement around the Commanders’ victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is still palpable, but for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, staying focused on the next task is key to his success.

“I kind of stay in my own bubble right now, focus on what’s next,” Daniels said. “But I could just tell a lot of people are excited.”

While the fervor in Washington continues, the team knows that their journey is far from over. Daniels and his teammates are turning their attention to Detroit for Saturday night’s divisional-round game. The Lions (15-2) come into the matchup well-rested following their bye week, and they have emerged as heavy favorites in the postseason.

“We’re excited, but we’re not satisfied,” said veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. “Any time you get to play football in January, it’s a blessing, and we’re aware of that and focused on what we need to do to get to the next week.”

Underdog Mentality Drives Commanders

The Commanders were not expected to advance past the Buccaneers, and their odds are even steeper against Detroit, who enters the game as 8.5-point favorites. By Tuesday, the line had moved to 9.5 points, underscoring the overwhelming perception that Washington is the underdog. However, the Commanders take pride in that role.

“We like being the underdogs,” said starting right guard Sam Cosmi. “They just keep on betting against us, and we keep proving them wrong.”

Cosmi, who made his NFL playoff debut against the Buccaneers, emphasized the importance of shifting focus quickly. While the win over Tampa Bay was a monumental moment for the franchise, he knows the team’s aspirations extend far beyond that victory.

“We’ve got bigger things to go and do,” Cosmi added.

Daniels Leads the Charge

The Commanders’ success in the postseason has been fueled by the steady play of Daniels, who has helped the team win five consecutive games—each one decided on the final play from scrimmage. From a season finale win over Dallas, where backup Marcus Mariota stepped in for an injured Daniels, to a dramatic game-winning field goal by Zane Gonzalez after Daniels orchestrated a late drive against the Buccaneers, the rookie has shown poise under pressure.

Daniels has also delivered clutch touchdown throws against top teams like Philadelphia and Atlanta, showcasing his ability to perform in high-stress situations. Washington receiver Olamide Zaccheaus believes Daniels was born for this role, and his leadership under pressure is a key asset for the offense.

“For him to be so young and be able to facilitate and put guys in place and just keep it all under control, that says a lot for him as a young player,” said running back Brian Robinson Jr.

Despite getting a cut on his cheek during the win over Tampa Bay, Daniels brushed off any concern. “I’m good,” he said. “It was just nothing but a little cut. Just a little cut.”

Team Health and Preparation for Detroit

Although the Commanders face a short week with a quick turnaround, head coach Dan Quinn remains confident in his team’s preparation. The team has had no trouble bouncing back with energy and focus, and they expect to be mostly healthy for the divisional game.

Defensive tackle Daron Payne, who sustained a finger injury against the Buccaneers, confirmed he’s good to go, while cornerback Marshon Lattimore should be stronger after dealing with a hamstring issue late in the regular season. The mental preparation is just as important, with Robinson noting the team’s positive mindset.

“Guys are just excited, and guys come back in here ready to work with that same energy,” Robinson said. “We know what we can do, we know what we can accomplish, we know how fun it is and we just want to keep having fun with it.”