
As the Washington Commanders prepared for their crucial Week 16 rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels continues to impress. Fresh off a standout performance in a narrow victory over the New Orleans Saints, Daniels has solidified his role as a key piece in Washington’s unexpected playoff push.
His challenge today? Being as good as his opposite number, Jalen Hurts of the Eagles.
But an early problem for Hurts: In the first quarter at Washington, his head slammed hard against the turf, as you can see in this video going viral ...
Jalen Hurts #eagles
— Tom Christ, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT (@FantasyInjuryT) December 22, 2024
Being evaluated for a concussion after this hit pic.twitter.com/CS0gRQD5hp
Hurts has now moved from the blue medical tent to the locker room.
Hurts' backup Kenny Pickett is in the game ... and suddenly he's the QB challenged to keep up.
In Week 15, Daniels delivered one of his most complete games of the season, completing 25 of 31 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns while adding 66 rushing yards on 11 attempts. His dual-threat abilities earned him the highest grade among all rookies for the week at 88.3 per PFF , ahead of Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Jared Verse and Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers.
The win marked the Commanders’ second straight victory, pushing them to a 9-5 record, their best start through 14 games since 1992. It’s been a remarkable turnaround for the rookie, who battled through a rib injury sustained in Week 7 against the Panthers but has since found his groove.
Daniels now leads all rookie quarterbacks with more than 10 games played, showcasing his efficiency and ability to perform under pressure. However, the stakes are higher this week as the Commanders face the Eagles, a team that handed them one of two straight divisional losses earlier in the season. Daniels struggled in that game, throwing for 191 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, with just 18 rushing yards.
A win on Sunday would not only improve Washington’s standing in the NFC wild-card race but also mark their first divisional victory outside of their two wins over the Giants. With momentum on their side, the Commanders hope Daniels’ continued success can lead them to their first playoff berth in years. ... while the Eagles hope Hurts is OK.
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