Commanders-Lions takeaways: Are Jayden Daniels and Co. a powerhouse?

In the divisional round on Saturday, the Washington Commanders stunned the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions 45-31. Here are three takeaways from the upset: 

Knee-jerk reaction: The Commanders could be on the verge of becoming an NFC powerhouse 

What a difference a year has made for the Washington Commanders. In 2023, they went 4-13. Now, they have punched their ticket to the NFC Championship Game for the first time in 33 years. 

Against Detroit, Washington forced five turnovers (four interceptions and one fumble lost). According to Josh Dubow of the Associated Press, the Commanders are the seventh team in NFL history to score 45-plus points in a road game.

Washington will face the Philadelphia Eagles or the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC title game. L.A. and Philadelphia have made a  Super Bowl appearance over the past five seasons, but it wouldn't be surprising if the Commanders beat either team. They have won seven straight games (including the playoffs). 

Even if the Commanders don't win next weekend, they probably won't be a one-hit wonder. Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters have clearly laid a winning foundation in their first season in Washington.  

Game MVP: Commanders QB Jayden Daniels 

Per The 33rd Team, Daniels secured his 14th win on Saturday night, tying former Pittsburgh Steelers star Ben Roethlisberger for the most by a rookie QB in a season in league history.