Dan Quinn Credits Jayden Daniels for ‘Willing’ Washington to a Playoff-Clinch Victory—The Drama Unfolds!

Jayden Daniels is not your typical rookie quarterback. His composure under pressure goes beyond ice in his veins—it’s more like liquid nitrogen. Daniels once again delivered a clutch performance on Sunday night, leading the Washington Commanders to a 30-24 overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons, clinching a playoff berth. The rookie’s game-winning drive in overtime, capped by a precise pass to tight end Zach Ertz, has impressed both fans and teammates alike.

Daniels Shows Incredible Poise Under Pressure

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn had nothing but praise for Daniels after the game. Speaking to Falcons coach Raheem Morris, Quinn said, “There are some things that five [Daniels] does that you can’t put on a card.” In the second half, Daniels showcased his elite competitive spirit, using both his legs and his arm to guide Washington to victory. Quinn added, “He just willed it. That’s the competitor he is, and he demonstrated that tonight.” For Quinn, the tough moments—like the ones Daniels faced during the game—are where real growth happens. “It’s nights like tonight that you do gain a lot…you have to overcome things, but those are the times we get to learn.”

Daniels completed 24 of 36 passes for 227 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. But it wasn’t just his arm that shone; he also led Washington’s rushing attack with 127 yards on 16 carries, much of which came in the second half and overtime. His remarkable ability to stay calm and perform in critical situations is evident in his historic performance this season. Daniels has thrown 12 touchdown passes in the fourth quarter or overtime, the most ever by a rookie in NFL history. Additionally, he has five touchdown passes in the final 30 seconds of regulation or overtime, two more than any other quarterback has thrown in a single season since 1970.

Veteran Teammates Impressed by Daniels’ Poise

Daniels’ poise in high-pressure moments hasn’t gone unnoticed by his veteran teammates. Linebacker Bobby Wagner commented on the rookie’s ability to stay composed, even when facing hits and tough situations. “His confidence, his demeanor never changes. You know that he knows he’s going to make a play, and everybody on the sideline and on the field believes he’s going to make a play.”

Tight end Zach Ertz also shared his admiration for Daniels’ maturity. “He’s the most mature rookie I’ve ever been around,” Ertz said. “He approaches the game, he loves to learn, and he exudes such a quiet confidence.” Ertz pointed out that whether Daniels is in the middle of a two-minute drill during OTAs or on the brink of securing a playoff spot, his approach remains calm and consistent. “He’s not a rah-rah guy, but we all know how good he is and how much confidence we have in him,” Ertz added.

Commanders’ Historic Comeback Victory

Trailing by 10 points at halftime, Washington needed a strong second-half effort to stay in the game. Daniels delivered. The Commanders mounted two long touchdown drives and a field goal to take a 24-17 lead. When the defense allowed the Falcons to force overtime, it was once again up to Daniels. He orchestrated a 12-play, 75-yard drive in the extra frame, securing the win and sending Washington to the playoffs.

This victory marked a significant milestone for the rookie. With his back-to-back double-digit comeback wins—this game against the Falcons and last week’s 14-point rally over the Eagles—Daniels became just the fifth rookie since 1950 to lead his team to consecutive double-digit comeback victories.

“I was just trying to make plays and help the team the best I can to win this football game,” Daniels said after the game. “Whether that’s sitting back there and throwing the ball or running—anything, man. I just want to win.”

A New Era of Winning in Washington

Washington’s success this season has been nothing short of remarkable. With Daniels under center, the Commanders have won 11-plus games for the first time since 1991, when the team finished 14-2 and went on to win Super Bowl XXVI. This victory also marked Washington’s first overtime win since Week 8 of the 2014 season, snapping a six-game overtime losing streak.

As Daniels continues to lead the Commanders, his remarkable ability to remain calm in clutch situations will likely be the defining trait of his rookie season. With his leadership and impressive performances, it’s clear that Washington’s future is in very capable hands.