In an exciting overtime thriller, the Washington Commanders defeated the Atlanta Falcons, securing their place in the playoffs. Jayden Daniels led the Commanders to victory with a stellar performance, while Michael Penix Jr. struggled to find his rhythm for the Falcons.
Michael Penix Jr. got his second straight start for Atlanta, but started the game with an immediate interception. Still, Bijan Robinson helped the Falcons' offense roll early and they took a 17-7 lead into the break. But the second half was a different story as fellow rookie Jayden Daniels got into a rhythm, helping Washington take a 24-17 lead late in the fourth. Penix Jr.
showed poise and tied the game with a touchdown throw to Kyle Pitts, but later on a different possession backup kicker Riley Patterson couldn't nail a 56-yarder as time expired. In overtime, Washington received the ball first and never looked back. Daniels led a 12-play, 70-yard drive that consumed 7:18 off the clock, resulting in a touchdown throw to Zach Ertz for the win.Jayden Daniels illustrates stardom The Commanders almost certainly have their franchise quarterback. While Daniels has experienced ups and downs in his rookie campaign, especially against the stronger contenders, he's still shown flashes of becoming an elite player himself. That showed itself in this game when the Commanders needed a playmaker to get them back into the game with a playoff berth on the line. Daniels finished the game completing 24 of 36 passes for 227 yards, three touchdowns and a pick while also leading the team in rushing with 127 yards on 16 carries. Washington may not make a deep playoff run this year, but the experience could be just as important for Daniels and Co.On the opposite spectrum, the lack of game time for Penix Jr. was also evident in the battle of the two young rookie signal callers. Penix Jr. didn't have the best game last time out vs. the He finished with 223 passing yards, one touchdown and the aforementioned early pick on 19 of 35 completions. Robinson played a vital role in Atlanta's offensive production on the night, logging 90 yards on 17 carries for two scores., who have the record advantage heading into Week 18. But maybe things could've been different had Penix Jr
NFL Washington Commanders Atlanta Falcons Jayden Daniels Michael Penix Jr. Playoffs Overtime
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