In a thrilling Week 3 matchup, the Washington Commanders emerged victorious with a 38-33 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. The stage was set in Cincinnati, where the Commanders showcased their offensive prowess, led by none other than rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Drafted as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Daniels has quickly proven why he was worthy of such a high selection. In his initial games, he recorded 410 passing yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. However, Week 3 was his true coming out party. Daniels completed an astonishing 21 of 23 passes, totaling 254 yards and throwing his first two NFL touchdown passes in the process.
Historic Performance
Daniels' performance wasn't just impressive; it was historic. He completed 91% of his passes, setting a new franchise record for completion percentage. This feat also marked the highest completion percentage by a rookie in NFL history. Over the first three games of his career, Daniels has completed 80% of his passes and rushed for 150 yards, a testament to his versatility and skill.
Daniels' all-around performance in the game extended beyond his impressive passing. He led the Commanders in rushing, racking up 39 yards on 12 carries. Notably, he scored a four-yard touchdown run just before the two-minute warning in the first half, adding a significant contribution to the Commanders' lead.
Offensive Support
While Daniels was the star, he had plenty of support. Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler both scored early touchdowns, setting a strong foundation for Washington. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin also played a pivotal role, with McLaurin hauling in a 27-yard touchdown pass from Daniels with just 2:10 remaining in the game. This touchdown, which solidified the Commanders' lead, was delivered under pressure as Daniels took a hit from Bengals' safety Geno Stone while making the throw.
McLaurin, who had recorded 39 receiving yards on eight receptions in the first two games with Daniels at quarterback, made a significant impact with a 55-yard reception that showcased his ability to connect with the rookie quarterback.
Meeting Expectations
The Commanders’ offensive unit continued their trend of scoring on every possession, excluding kneeldowns, for the second consecutive game. This kind of efficiency is rare and speaks volumes about both the team's preparation and Daniels' ability to execute under pressure.
Friendly Rivalry
The storyline took an intriguing turn with the meeting of two former college alumni and Heisman Trophy winners, Jayden Daniels and Joe Burrow. While Burrow, a celebrated figure in the NFL, has a storied career, it was Daniels who emerged as the standout in this contest. He managed to outplay Burrow, demonstrating poise and confidence well beyond his years.
Looking Ahead
The Commanders’ victory over the Bengals not only highlights their potent offense but also solidifies Jayden Daniels as a rising star in the NFL. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the young quarterback to see if he can maintain this level of performance and propel Washington to further success.
With his current trajectory, Jayden Daniels could soon become a household name, potentially leading his team to new heights. For now, Commanders fans have every reason to be optimistic about their team’s future with such a promising talent at the helm.