Jayden Daniels rookie performance/ Commanders’ victory over Bengals/ flawless game by Jayden Daniels/ Newslooks/ CINCINNATI/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels led the Washington Commanders to a thrilling 38-33 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Daniels threw for two touchdowns, ran for another, and set an NFL rookie record for completion percentage at 91.3%. The Commanders, now 2-1, capitalized on every possession to secure the win, while Joe Burrow’s Bengals dropped to 0-3.
Jayden Daniels Dominates Quick Look:
- Jayden Daniels went 21 of 23 for 254 yards, setting a rookie record with a 91.3% completion rate.
- The Commanders scored on every drive except for kneel-downs, winning 38-33 over Cincinnati.
- Joe Burrow threw for 324 yards and three TDs, but the Bengals couldn’t keep pace.
- The Commanders’ defense held strong as Daniels threw a game-sealing 27-yard touchdown to Terry McLaurin.
Rookie Jayden Daniels Shines in Commanders’ 38-33 Win Over Bengals
Deep Look:
In his first prime-time start, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels delivered a near-flawless performance, leading the Washington Commanders to a 38-33 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. The No. 2 overall draft pick showcased poise beyond his years, throwing for two touchdowns, running for another, and setting an NFL rookie record with a 91.3% completion percentage (21 of 23).
Daniels’ performance marked a breakthrough moment in just his third NFL game. The former Heisman Trophy winner from LSU spread the ball around efficiently, finding Terry McLaurin for a game-sealing 27-yard touchdown with just over two minutes remaining. McLaurin, who hauled in four catches for 100 yards, praised his quarterback’s composure under pressure.
“He’s a real cool customer, and he’s got a real poise about him,” Commanders coach Dan Quinn said after the win, highlighting Daniels’ ability to manage the game and take advantage of Cincinnati’s defensive lapses.
The Commanders (2-1) continued their offensive dominance, scoring on every possession except for kneel-downs at the end of each half. Over the last two games, Washington has not punted or turned the ball over, a testament to Daniels’ steady hand in guiding the offense. “That’s crazy,” Daniels said, reflecting on the achievement. “I don’t think I’ve ever been that efficient.”
Burrow and the Bengals Struggle While Cincinnati quarterback Joe Burrow had his best game of the season with 324 yards and three touchdowns, the Bengals (0-3) were unable to keep pace with Washington’s relentless offense. Burrow connected twice with Ja’Marr Chase, who finished with six catches for 118 yards, but Cincinnati’s defense couldn’t slow down the Commanders.
“We just couldn’t match them,” Burrow admitted after the game. His team, now winless through three games, is off to its worst start since 2019, when the Bengals finished 2-14. Coach Zac Taylor was blunt in his assessment, stating, “We knew they were dangerous. They dictated the flow of the game.”
Despite Burrow’s heroics, including a 1-yard touchdown pass to Chase in the fourth quarter, Cincinnati failed to capitalize on several early opportunities. The Bengals’ first-half drives stalled in the red zone, forcing Evan McPherson to kick two field goals, while Washington found the end zone on each of their first four drives.
Commanders’ Offensive Firepower Washington’s offense was firing on all cylinders from the opening snap. Daniels capped off a methodical first drive with a 1-yard touchdown pass to eligible tackle Trent Scott, catching the Bengals off guard. The trick play, which saw Scott slip past the defense, marked the second straight week the Bengals allowed a touchdown to a lineman.
On the ground, Washington received rushing touchdowns from Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Daniels himself. Ekeler, however, left the game in the second half with a concussion, which could be a concern for the Commanders moving forward.
Even when Cincinnati tried to mount a comeback, Washington responded. Burrow’s second touchdown pass to Chase cut the lead to 31-26, but the Commanders answered with a 7 1/2-minute drive that culminated in Daniels’ pinpoint throw to McLaurin for a 27-yard score. The pass had a completion probability of just 10.3%, according to NFL Next Gen Stats, highlighting Daniels’ accuracy under pressure.
Daniels’ Competitive Spirit Daniels, known for his calm demeanor and competitive drive, embraced the challenge of his first prime-time game. “I want to compete on a high level,” he said. “I prepare for these moments week in and week out. I just have to go out there and play football and execute.”
Commanders fans and coaches alike have been impressed by Daniels’ early success, particularly his ability to stay composed under pressure. Washington’s offensive line provided excellent protection, allowing Daniels to stay upright and find his targets all game.
Bengals’ Defensive Struggles Cincinnati’s defense, on the other hand, struggled to contain Washington’s varied attack. The Commanders finished with 460 yards of total offense and did not punt for the second consecutive week. The Bengals failed to generate enough pressure on Daniels, allowing him to make quick, decisive throws throughout the game.
To make matters worse for Cincinnati, right tackle Trent Brown was carted off the field in the first half with a right knee injury and did not return, adding to the team’s injury woes.
Up Next The Commanders will head to Arizona on Sunday to face the Cardinals, looking to build on their 2-1 start. The Bengals, still searching for their first win, will travel to Carolina to take on the Panthers, hoping to turn their season around before it’s too late.
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