The Washington Commanders pulled off a shocking playoff upset when they stunned the top-seeded Detroit Lions 45-31 in the Divisional Round. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and a determined Washington defense stole the show, powering the Commanders to their first NFC Championship appearance since they won the Super Bowl 33 years ago.
How Did the Commanders Beat the Lions?
Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 draft, dazzled with 299 yards passing, two touchdowns, and 51 yards rushing without any turnovers. His poise under pressure was complemented by a defense that forced five Detroit turnovers, including two interceptions by rookie Mike Sainristil. Washington outscored the Lions 28-14 in the second quarter (the most points scored in a single quarter in NFL playoff history) to take a commanding halftime lead.
“We believed in each other when nobody else did,” Daniels said after the game.
Detroit, riding a franchise-best 15-2 record into the playoffs, crumbled under the weight of their mistakes. Jared Goff lost a fumble and threw three interceptions, one of which was returned 40 yards for a touchdown by Quan Martin. The Lions clawed back within three points early in the second half, but a back-breaking 15-play, 70-yard touchdown drive by Washington — extended by a critical Lions penalty — sealed the upset.
Dan Quinn’s Fearless Quote After the Big Win
After the game, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn encapsulated his team’s mentality with a bold, three-word declaration: “Anybody. Anywhere. Anytime.” The quote quickly went viral, earning praise as a rallying cry for a team that has thrived against the odds.
How the Commanders feel about next Sunday’s NFC Championship game: pic.twitter.com/B9fVUfOW0j
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 19, 2025
Quinn, in his first year at the helm, has masterfully reshaped the Commanders into a resilient and disciplined unit. Known for his defensive acumen, the former Dallas Cowboys coordinator has brought a no-nonsense approach that has resonated with players and fans alike. Washington has now won six straight games, including two playoff victories where they displayed the grit and determination embodied in Quinn’s message.
The Commanders’ resurgence has sparked excitement among their loyal fan base, reigniting comparisons to the franchise’s storied past. With a 12-5 regular-season record, their first double-digit win campaign since 2012’s 10-6 season, Washington is poised for even greater heights behind a young and dynamic roster.
Now, they will face an even bigger challenge: a road game against the winner of a snowy Divisional Round clash between the Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles.
With only one win now standing between them a their first Super Bowl appearance since 1992, and Quinn’s mantra echoing through the locker room, Washington has truly embraced its identity as underdogs.
Anybody. Anywhere. Anytime. The Commanders are ready for whatever comes next.
