In Week 3 Thriller, Jayden Daniels Shines as Commanders Edge Bengals 38-33
In a nail-biting Week 3 matchup, the Washington Commanders delivered a thrilling 38-33 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals in Cincinnati. The spotlight was firmly on Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who put on a masterclass performance that set new records and firmly stamped his authority as a rising star in the NFL.
Exceptional Debut Season for Daniels
Heading into the game, Daniels had shown promise in his first two outings with 410 passing yards, though he had yet to throw a touchdown pass. That narrative changed dramatically against the Bengals. Completing an outstanding 91% of his passes—21 of 23 attempts for 254 yards—Daniels notched his first two NFL touchdown passes, setting a new franchise record for completion percentage. This feat also marked the highest completion percentage by a rookie in NFL history.
Commanders’ Offensive Onslaught
The Commanders’ offense was relentless, scoring on every possession except for kneeldowns for the second consecutive game. Early touchdowns from Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler set the tone, but it was Daniels who orchestrated the most memorable moments. He connected with Terry McLaurin for a 27-yard touchdown pass with just over two minutes remaining, securing the win and solidifying his status as the game’s MVP. The pass was delivered under pressure as Daniels took a hit from Bengals' safety Geno Stone.
Daniels' versatility was on full display as he led the Commanders with 39 rushing yards on 12 carries. One of the highlights was a four-yard touchdown run just before the two-minute warning in the first half, showcasing his dual-threat capability.
Daniels’ Connection with McLaurin
McLaurin, who had posted 39 receiving yards on eight receptions in the first two games with Daniels, significantly boosted those stats against the Bengals. He recorded a 55-yard reception and demonstrated why he is considered one of the league's premier receivers. Their growing chemistry will undoubtedly be a focal point for opponents in future games.
Historic Moments and Rivalries
Daniels’ first NFL touchdown pass was not only a critical moment in the game but also a memorable highlight, caught by offensive lineman Trent Scott. This unexpected connection added an extra layer of excitement to an already captivating game.
The game also featured a compelling storyline as Daniels faced off against Joe Burrow, a fellow alumnus from the same college and a fellow Heisman Trophy winner. Daniels outperformed Burrow, delivering a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
Commanders’ Season Outlook
Through the first three games, Daniels has completed 80% of his passes and amassed 150 rushing yards, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Commanders' offense. The team’s ability to score on every possession is a testament to their offensive prowess and strategic planning.
With such a phenomenal start to his NFL career, Jayden Daniels has set high expectations for himself and his team. As the season progresses, the Commanders will aim to build on this momentum, fueled by their young quarterback’s exceptional playmaking abilities.
The victory over the Bengals in Cincinnati not only bolsters the Commanders' standing but also showcases the potential of their new leader. If Daniels' early performances are any indication, the future looks promising for the Washington Commanders and their fans.