The Washington Commanders achieved a thrilling 24-23 victory against the New Orleans Saints on December 15, 2024. This nail-biting game not only marked their first winning season since 2016 but also showcased a mix of brilliant plays and controversial officiating that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Studs:
In standout fashion, Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels demonstrated both skill and determination. He threw for an impressive 226 yards, connecting for two touchdowns against the Saints. Even more remarkable, he also showed off his legs by rushing for 66 yards!
- Terry McLaurin: The star wide receiver was on fire, recording seven catches for 73 yards and scoring two touchdowns. His ability to make big plays was crucial for the Commanders.
- Mike Sainristil: Making waves on defense, Sainristil intercepted a pass and contributed with five tackles, proving to be a formidable presence.
- Jeremy Chinn: Leading the team in tackles, he made seven stops and even managed to sack the quarterback!
Duds:
While the team secured a win, not all performances were up to par, raising eyebrows and questions.
- Michael Deiter: Deiter faced heavy criticism for his performance at center, with many suggesting he struggled to keep up.
- Nick Allegretti: His poor play resulted in sacks being allowed and penalties committed, leaving some fans frustrated.
- Officiating Crew: The referees, led by Shawn Hochuli, faced significant backlash for making several questionable calls that impacted the game’s outcome.
Game Notes:
This game was marked not just by the players’ performances, but also by the intense atmosphere and strategic decisions made during plays.
- The Commanders’ defense showed heroics in the first half, controlling the Saints’ offense. However, the Saints began to gain momentum in the second half, making things tense.
- Despite injuries and illnesses sidelining several key players, the Commanders pulled together, showcasing the depth of their roster.
- The Saints, who started with quarterback Derek Carr sidelined due to a fractured hand, had to get creative. They swapped quarterbacks during the game, seeing multiple changes that added to the drama.
- A late-game rally by the Saints, fueled by third-string quarterback Spencer Rattler, nearly turned the tide after they scored a touchdown. However, a failed two-point conversion attempt secured the win for the Commanders.
What’s Next?
With this hard-fought win, the Washington Commanders now set their sights on a crucial matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles next week. Fans and players alike are hopeful that they can continue this momentum and secure their position in the playoff race.
| Teams | Score | Key Player |
|---|---|---|
| Washington Commanders | 24 | Jayden Daniels |
| New Orleans Saints | 23 | Spencer Rattler |
