The Washington Commanders aren’t mathematically out of the playoff hunt just yet - and if Sunday night was any indication, they’re not going down quietly.
Yes, they’re sitting at 3-9. But that record doesn’t tell the whole story of a team that just took the 10-2 Denver Broncos to the wire in prime time. The offense showed real juice, and now, there’s a chance it could get a major boost heading into Week 14.
Quarterback Jayden Daniels was back on the practice field Wednesday, participating in a limited capacity after suffering a dislocated elbow back on Nov. 2 against the Seahawks - an injury that had fans wincing and turning away from their screens. Daniels is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, and while head coach Dan Quinn didn’t exactly sound ready to pencil him into the starting lineup, he did note Daniels is expected to get a solid number of practice reps this week.
That’s a cautious but encouraging step forward for the rookie quarterback, who had been showing flashes before the injury. And while Quinn didn’t commit to a return this week, he might not have to rush it - not with the way the Vikings’ offense has been playing.
Minnesota, simply put, has been stuck in neutral. Whether it’s been JJ McCarthy, who continues to struggle with decision-making and consistency, or last week’s starter Max Brosmer, the Vikings haven’t been able to generate much of anything offensively. That gives Washington’s defense a real opportunity to take control of the game - and maybe even keep the season alive just a little longer.
Helping that cause is the return of Terry McLaurin, who looked every bit like the WR1 Commanders fans know and love. He hauled in seven catches for 96 yards and a touchdown against Denver, consistently creating separation and coming up with big plays in key moments. That kind of performance doesn’t just help the stat sheet - it lifts the entire offense.
And speaking of the offense, Marcus Mariota deserves his flowers. He’s been one of the most reliable backup quarterbacks in the league this season, and he nearly led Washington to a massive upset last week. The Commanders were a two-point conversion away from knocking off one of the AFC’s best teams - and that’s not nothing.
So, while the playoff odds remain slim, there’s still a heartbeat in D.C. With Daniels potentially returning, McLaurin back in rhythm, and Mariota keeping the ship steady, the Commanders are showing they’re not interested in tanking or coasting through December. They’re playing with pride - and maybe, just maybe, they’ve got one more surprise left in them.