The Washington Commanders entered the 2024 season riding the wave of an extraordinary year, propelled by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, whose debut was among the finest in NFL history. With a record of 12-5 last season and a thrilling postseason journey to the NFC Championship, expectations were high.
However, reality has proven to be more challenging. Currently at 3-5, Washington has already matched last season’s loss total with half the season still to go. In their recent matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Commanders faced a formidable opponent without their star quarterback due to a hamstring injury. Backup Marcus Mariota struggled to match the Chiefs’ intensity, leading to a 28-7 defeat.
Kansas City’s Patrick Mahomes shone in the second half, throwing three touchdown passes while the Chiefs’ defense tightened its grip. Remarkably, the Chiefs did not exhibit their top form but still managed to dominate the second half, reflecting the current disparity between the two teams.
The game began with an unusual slow start for Kansas City, where Mahomes, who had only thrown two interceptions all season, recorded two in the opening drives. The Commanders initially demonstrated promise, moving the ball effectively but failing to capitalize, including two turnovers on downs and an interception. Nevertheless, they managed to tie the game at 7-7 at halftime, with Mariota connecting with Terry McLaurin in the end zone.
Despite being significant underdogs without Daniels, the Commanders held their ground. However, the absence of their starting quarterback ultimately hurt them as the game progressed. The Chiefs began to find their offensive rhythm, with Mahomes delivering touchdown passes to Kareem Hunt, Travis Kelce, and Rashee Rice, extending the lead beyond Washington’s reach.
Mariota’s performance, while not dreadful, revealed the limitations of the team in the absence of their star player. The Commanders’ defense has struggled, and offensive consistency has been elusive, particularly with Daniels sidelined. As a result, they now find themselves three games behind the division-leading Philadelphia Eagles, making a winning season increasingly unlikely. In a competitive NFC, re-entering the wild-card race is a daunting challenge.
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Washington’s previous playoff run offered a glimmer of hope for the franchise’s future, but the road ahead this season appears long and arduous as they strive to regain their footing in a tumultuous league.
