The Washington Commanders faced off against the New Orleans Saints in a thrilling game on December 15, 2024, and they managed to sneak away with a narrow 24-23 victory. This win is a big deal as it marks the Commanders’ first winning season since 2016! Fans in Washington are buzzing with excitement as their team keeps hope alive for the playoffs.
Studs:
Some players truly shined in this nail-biter of a game. Quarterback Jayden Daniels was a standout, throwing for touchdowns and making key plays, even when things got a bit tricky. He showed his determination and skill, throwing for an impressive 226 yards and rushing for 66 yards on 11 carries. His performance was crucial in keeping the Commanders on track.
Another bright spot was wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who caught seven passes for 73 yards and scored two touchdowns. He played a huge role in the team’s success, making important catches when they needed them the most. His connection with Daniels was electric, bringing some much-needed energy to the game.
Duds:
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Commanders. Some players faced criticism for their performance. Center Michael Deiter had a tough day, drawing a lot of negative attention for his struggles. Fans and commentators alike pointed out that he allowed a few sacks and committed penalties that put the team in difficult situations.
Even more notable was the criticism that the officiating crew, led by referee Shawn Hochuli, faced after the game. Several calls sparked debate, and many felt they might have affected the flow of the game. With so much on the line, these little mishaps are magnified and spark serious conversations among fans and analysts.
Notes:
A highlight for Washington’s defense was Mike Sainristil, who not only recorded an interception but also made five tackles. His ability to make big plays helped the Commanders maintain their edge. Jeremy Chinn also contributed significantly on defense, leading the team with seven tackles and even securing a sack.
As for the Saints, they struggled without their starting quarterback, Derek Carr, who was sidelined with a fractured left hand. Jake Haener started but was replaced by Spencer Rattler in the third quarter, making for an uncertain quarterback situation. Rattler showed promise by leading a touchdown drive late in the game, but they ultimately fell short after failing a crucial two-point conversion attempt.
| Player | Position | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jayden Daniels | QB | 226 passing yards, 2 TDs, 66 rushing yards |
| Terry McLaurin | WR | 7 receptions, 73 yards, 2 TDs |
| Mike Sainristil | DB | 1 INT, 5 tackles |
| Jeremy Chinn | LB | 7 tackles, 1 sack |
| Michael Deiter | C | Critical penalties and missed protection |
As the Commanders continue to chase their playoff dreams, they will need to address some of these issues to ensure they can perform consistently in the upcoming weeks. Fans are hopeful as they gear up for their next big game!
