Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions Match Player Stats

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats tell the story of one of the most stunning upsets in NFL playoff history. On January 18, 2025, the sixth-seeded Washington Commanders shocked the football world by dismantling the top-seeded Detroit Lions 45-31 at Ford Field in the NFC Divisional Round. What was expected to be a dominant Lions performance turned into a nightmare, as the Commanders delivered a thrilling masterclass that sent them to their first NFC Championship Game since 1991.

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats showcase a complete team effort led by rookie sensation Jayden Daniels and a defense that forced five critical turnovers. This game featured explosive offensive plays, defensive dominance, and clutch performances that defied all expectations. With the Lions entering as heavy favorites after a franchise-best 15-2 regular season, the Commanders’ victory ranks among the greatest playoff upsets in recent memory.

🏟️ Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field

Teams and Key Players

Team	Key Players	Notable Stats
Washington Commanders	Jayden Daniels (QB), Brian Robinson Jr. (RB), Terry McLaurin (WR), Mike Sainristil (CB), Dyami Brown (WR)	14-5 Record, 6th Seed
Detroit Lions	Jared Goff (QB), Jahmyr Gibbs (RB), Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR), Jameson Williams (WR)	15-2 Record, 1st Seed

Game Details

Detail	Information
Event Type	NFC Divisional Round Playoff Game
Location	Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
Date & Time	Saturday, January 18, 2025, 8:00 PM EST
Final Score	Commanders 45, Lions 31
Significance	Commanders advance to first NFC Championship since 1991; Lions suffer crushing playoff exit despite 15-2 season
General Recap	Washington dominated with 5 forced turnovers and 481 total yards, while Detroit’s four Jared Goff turnovers doomed their Super Bowl hopes

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring

Team	Quarter 1	Quarter 2	Quarter 3	Quarter 4	Total
Washington Commanders	3	28	0	14	45
Detroit Lions	7	14	7	3	31

Additional Breakdown Details

Category	Details
Key Moments	Mike Sainristil’s 2 interceptions, Quan Martin’s 40-yard pick-six, Terry McLaurin’s 58-yard TD, Commanders’ dominant second quarter (28-14 outscoring)
Momentum Shifts	Second quarter explosion by Commanders; Lions’ trick play interception in Q4 sealed fate
Injuries/Substitutions	Sam Cosmi injured on scoring play; Jared Goff briefly replaced by Teddy Bridgewater after big hit
Strategies	Commanders used ground game (182 rushing yards) and ball control; Lions blitzed 60% but Daniels thrived under pressure
Extra Insights	Stunned Ford Field crowd; highest-scoring second quarter in NFL playoff history (42 combined points)

What Was the Event? NFC Divisional Round playoff game in the 2024-25 NFL postseason.

Where Was the Match Held? Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, home of the Detroit Lions.

When Did It Take Place? Saturday evening, January 18, 2025, at 8:00 PM EST.

Why Was the Match Significant? The Commanders were nearly double-digit underdogs facing the NFC’s top seed. A Washington victory would send them to their first conference championship in 33 years, while Detroit sought their first-ever Super Bowl appearance.

How Did It Unfold Generally? Washington seized control with an explosive second quarter, forcing multiple turnovers from Jared Goff while Jayden Daniels put on a clinic. The defense created five takeaways, and the rushing attack totaled 182 yards in a complete team victory.

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats revealed a David-versus-Goliath storyline that captivated the nation.

📊 Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

Quarter 1: Commanders Draw First Blood

Key Moments: Washington opened with a methodical drive resulting in a 48-yard Zane Gonzalez field goal. Detroit responded with a touchdown drive featuring Jahmyr Gibbs’ explosive running, taking a 7-3 lead.

Shifts in Momentum: The Lions appeared to establish dominance early, but Washington’s defense stiffened after the initial scoring drive.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Both teams operated with full rosters to start the game.

Notable Strategies: Detroit came out aggressive, attacking Washington’s run defense. The Commanders focused on ball control and keeping Detroit’s high-powered offense off the field.

Extra Insights: The crowd at Ford Field was electric, expecting a Lions blowout. Washington’s calm composure hinted at the upset to come.

Quarter 2: Historic Explosion Changes Everything

Key Moments: This quarter made history. Dorance Armstrong strip-sacked Jared Goff, recovered by Frankie Luvu, leading to Brian Robinson’s 1-yard TD run. Quan Martin returned an interception 40 yards for a touchdown. Terry McLaurin caught a 58-yard screen pass for a score. Zach Ertz hauled in a 5-yard TD pass. Mike Sainristil intercepted Goff in the end zone to end the half.

Shifts in Momentum: Complete momentum swing. Washington outscored Detroit 28-14 in what became the highest-scoring quarter in NFL playoff history (42 combined points). The Commanders took a stunning 31-21 halftime lead.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Jared Goff was momentarily replaced by Teddy Bridgewater after taking a massive hit from Frankie Luvu on his interception. Sam Cosmi left the game injured.

Notable Strategies: Detroit’s defense couldn’t contain Daniels, who completed passes against heavy blitzes. Washington’s defense forced three Goff turnovers in the quarter alone.

Extra Insights: Ford Field fell silent as disbelief swept through the crowd. Jayden Daniels knelt to end the half with a 10-point lead, symbolizing Washington’s dominance. Daniels posted 242 first-half passing yards, a rookie playoff record.

Quarter 3: Lions Fight Back, Commanders Respond

Key Moments: Detroit scored on a drive to cut the deficit, but Washington’s defense held firm for the remainder of the quarter, allowing no Commanders scores.

Shifts in Momentum: The Lions showed life, but couldn’t sustain drives consistently. Washington focused on clock management and maintaining their lead.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Both teams rotated defensive players to keep legs fresh.

Notable Strategies: The Commanders ran the ball more frequently, grinding clock and keeping Goff on the sideline. Detroit’s defense adjusted but couldn’t generate turnovers.

Extra Insights: The crowd tried to will the Lions back, but Washington’s poise never wavered. Ball control became paramount.

Quarter 4: Commanders Seal Historic Victory

Key Moments: Brian Robinson scored his second rushing TD to extend the lead to 38-24. Jameson Williams threw an interception on a trick play to Mike Sainristil, his second of the game. Washington added another touchdown to make it 45-28. Detroit scored a late field goal for the final 45-31 margin.

Shifts in Momentum: Any Lions comeback hopes died when Sainristil picked off the trick play. Washington controlled the final minutes.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Commanders rotated backups in the final minutes to protect their starters.

Notable Strategies: Dan Quinn’s aggressive fourth-down decisions (3-of-4 conversions) proved crucial. Detroit’s desperation led to the failed trick play.

Extra Insights: Commanders fans in attendance erupted as the final seconds ticked away. Washington’s first road playoff win in Detroit cemented their underdog triumph.

🌟 Highlight Standout Performances

Star Players and Their Stats

Player	Team	Position	Passing	Rushing	Receiving	Notable Stats
Jayden Daniels	WAS	QB	22/31, 299 yards, 2 TD, 0 INT, 122.9 rating	16 carries, 51 yards	–	350 combined yards, zero sacks allowed, 0 turnovers
Brian Robinson Jr.	WAS	RB	–	15 carries, 77 yards, 2 TD	–	5.1 yards per carry
Terry McLaurin	WAS	WR	–	–	5 rec, 73 yards, 1 TD	58-yard TD reception
Dyami Brown	WAS	WR	–	–	6 rec, 98 yards	Led playoff receiving yards
Mike Sainristil	WAS	CB	–	–	–	2 INT, 4 tackles, 2 PD
Jared Goff	DET	QB	23/40, 313 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT	–	–	59.7 rating, 1 fumble lost
Jahmyr Gibbs	DET	RB	–	14 carries, 105 yards, 2 TD	6 rec, 70 yards	175 total yards
Amon-Ra St. Brown	DET	WR	–	–	8 rec, 137 yards	10 targets

Shooting Percentages (Passing Efficiency)

Team	Completion %	Yards/Attempt	TD/INT Ratio	Passer Rating	Sacks Allowed
Washington Commanders	71.0% (22/31)	9.6	2/0	122.9	0
Detroit Lions	57.5% (23/40)	7.8	1/3	59.7	1

Defensive Impact Statistics

Team	Interceptions	Fumbles Recovered	Sacks	Tackles for Loss	Pass Deflections
Washington Commanders	4 (including 1 Pick-Six)	1	1 (strip-sack)	5	8
Detroit Lions	0	0	0	2	3

Clutch Moments

Terry McLaurin’s 58-Yard TD: Turned a short screen into a game-changing score with 60 yards after catch
Mike Sainristil’s End Zone INT: Closed the first half by picking off Goff in the end zone, preserving momentum
Quan Martin’s Pick-Six: 40-yard interception return for touchdown shifted the game decisively
Daniels’ 4th Down Conversions: Converted 3-of-4 fourth downs, including a 12-yard dart to McLaurin under pressure
Sainristil’s Trick Play INT: Second interception on Jameson Williams’ reverse-pass attempt sealed the victory

Leadership and Teamwork

Rookie head coach Dan Quinn’s leadership established a winning culture. The Commanders showed no fear playing in a hostile environment against the NFL’s best team. Daniels’ calm demeanor under pressure (77.8% completion rate when blitzed) inspired his teammates. The defense rallied around the “ball is life” mantra, finally achieving their season-long goal of creating multiple turnovers. Brian Robinson’s physicality set the tone for the rushing attack after struggling in previous weeks.

📈 Key Statistics

Final Score

Team	Points
Washington Commanders	45
Detroit Lions	31

Total Yards and Offensive Production

Team	Total Yards	Passing Yards	Rushing Yards	Plays	Yards Per Play
Washington Commanders	481	299	182	73	6.6
Detroit Lions	521	320	201	68	7.7

Turnovers – The Deciding Factor

Team	Interceptions Thrown	Fumbles Lost	Total Turnovers
Washington Commanders	0	0	0
Detroit Lions	4	1	5

Time of Possession

Team	Time of Possession
Washington Commanders	33:59
Detroit Lions	26:01

Critical Defensive Stats

Team	Sacks	QB Hits	Tackles for Loss	Forced Fumbles
Washington Commanders	1	4	5	1
Detroit Lions	0	2	2	0

Third and Fourth Down Efficiency

Team	3rd Down Conv.	4th Down Conv.	Red Zone Efficiency
Washington Commanders	6/14 (42.9%)	3/4 (75.0%)	4/5 (80.0%)
Detroit Lions	5/11 (45.5%)	1/2 (50.0%)	3/4 (75.0%)

Total Points Comparison and Pace

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats revealed Washington’s ability to capitalize on opportunities. Despite Detroit accumulating more total yards (521 vs 481), the five turnovers proved catastrophic. Washington’s efficiency in the red zone and dominance in time of possession demonstrated superior execution in critical moments.

🗣️ Quotes and Reactions

Player Reactions

Jayden Daniels (Commanders QB)

“I always believed that we could achieve more than people give us credit for. We came in with nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
On Mike Sainristil: “He played lights out. He got us the ball back, made plays when the play needed to be made. Obviously two picks in a playoff game, a game like this, especially coming back to Michigan and us being the same draft class, I’m just so excited for him.”

Terry McLaurin (Commanders WR)

On Daniels: “Nothing surprises me with him. He’s been special all year long.”

Mike Sainristil (Commanders CB)

“I think it was good for us to go out there and be able to play as dominant as we did. Being able to create five turnovers is huge. It’s one of the things that we preach here is the ball is life.”

Brian Robinson Jr. (Commanders RB)

“We knew what we were capable of. We just had to go out and execute.”

Dan Campbell (Lions Head Coach)

“Give them credit. They earned that game and we didn’t.”

Jared Goff (Lions QB)

“It’s devastating. We had everything in front of us and couldn’t execute when it mattered.”

Coaching Staff Reactions

Dan Quinn (Commanders Head Coach)

“This team believes in each other. They’ve shown it all year with comeback wins and clutch performances. Tonight was no different.”
On Sainristil: “Mike’s somebody that, he’s hard to fool. Much like Jayden, he’s got a little bit of an older soul about him, he takes to coaching quickly, he doesn’t repeat mistakes.”

Joe Whitt Jr. (Commanders Defensive Coordinator)

“Our goal all season was three turnovers per game. To get five in the biggest game of the year shows what this defense is capable of.”

Media and Analyst Reactions

Source	Quote
NFL Network	“One of the greatest playoff upsets in divisional-round history. The Commanders announced their arrival on the biggest stage.”
ESPN	“Jayden Daniels is rewriting the rookie quarterback playoff record books with historic performances.”
CBS Sports	“The Lions’ Super Bowl dreams died with Jared Goff’s catastrophic four-turnover performance.”
Fox Sports	“Washington’s defense forced turnovers at will, turning Ford Field into a house of horrors for Detroit.”
Yahoo Sports	“From laughingstock to NFC Championship contender in one season – the Commanders’ turnaround is complete.”

Emotional Takeaways

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats captured a franchise-altering moment. For Washington, this victory validated their 12-5 regular season and proved they belonged among the NFL’s elite. Rookie performances from Daniels and Sainristil showcased a bright future. For Detroit, a devastating end to a historic season left players and fans heartbroken, with Super Bowl aspirations crushed by five costly turnovers.

🧠 Match Analysis

What Went Right for Washington

Offensive Successes:

Jayden Daniels thrived under pressure, completing 77.8% of passes when blitzed and 80% against blitzes (17 dropbacks)
Rushing attack returned to form with 182 yards, highest since Week 13
Brian Robinson averaged 5.1 yards per carry with two touchdowns
Terry McLaurin and Dyami Brown provided explosive plays downfield
Zero turnovers and zero sacks allowed – pristine ball security
Fourth-down conversions (3-of-4) kept drives alive in critical moments

Defensive Successes:

Five forced turnovers completely changed the game
Mike Sainristil’s two interceptions, including end zone pick before halftime
Quan Martin’s 40-yard pick-six energized the defense
Frankie Luvu’s strip-sack fumble recovery led to points
Limited Detroit’s explosive plays despite giving up total yards
Clutch stops in red zone situations

What Went Wrong for Detroit

Offensive Failures:

Jared Goff’s catastrophic performance: 3 INTs, 1 fumble, 59.7 passer rating
Four turnovers directly attributed to Goff doomed Super Bowl hopes
Trick play interception showed desperation rather than creativity
Inability to protect the football in high-pressure moments
Failed to capitalize on 521 total yards gained

Defensive Failures:

Blitzed Daniels on 60% of dropbacks but he thrived under pressure (191 yards vs blitz)
Allowed 182 rushing yards despite being a top-5 run defense
Generated zero turnovers or sacks
Couldn’t contain Daniels’ mobility (51 rushing yards on 16 carries)
Surrendered explosive plays including 58-yard TD to McLaurin

Controversial Calls and Game-Changing Moments

Critical Officiating:

Defensive pass interference call on Detroit in the red zone gave Washington first-and-goal
Generally clean officiating with no major controversial calls that altered outcome

Game-Changing Moments:

Moment	Impact
Quan Martin’s Pick-Six	Gave Washington momentum and 24-14 lead
Goff’s End Zone INT to Sainristil	Preserved 10-point halftime lead, crushing Detroit’s spirits
Strip-Sack Fumble	Led to Robinson TD, flipped field position
Sainristil’s Trick Play INT	Sealed victory, eliminated any comeback hopes
Daniels’ Second-Quarter Explosion	242 passing yards in one half set rookie playoff record

Recent Form Context

Washington Commanders:

Entered on 6-game winning streak, longest in NFL
12-5 regular season (best since 1991)
Previous playoff win over Tampa Bay on final-play heroics
Eight games won trailing in 4th quarter during regular season
Seven games won on final play from scrimmage
Daniels healthy after mid-season rib injury

Detroit Lions:

15-2 regular season (franchise record)
NFL’s highest-scoring offense (564 points, 4th in NFL history)
First #1 seed in franchise history
Riding wave of Super Bowl expectations
Lost two games all season but both turnovers were uncharacteristic

Advanced Metrics Analysis

Metric	Washington	Detroit	Advantage
Explosive Plays (20+ yards)	7	6	Washington
Red Zone Efficiency	80%	75%	Washington
Third Down %	42.9%	45.5%	Detroit
Fourth Down %	75.0%	50.0%	Washington
Turnover Margin	+5	-5	Washington
Time of Possession	33:59	26:01	Washington

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats confirmed that turnovers and execution mattered more than total yards. Washington’s discipline, opportunistic defense, and rookie quarterback’s poise proved superior to Detroit’s talent advantage.

🏁 Conclusion

The washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats tell an unforgettable story of a playoff upset for the ages. Washington’s 45-31 victory at Ford Field wasn’t just a win – it was a statement that this team, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and first-year coach Dan Quinn, has arrived as a legitimate championship contender. The Commanders’ defense forced five turnovers, the offense committed zero giveaways, and Daniels orchestrated one of the finest rookie playoff performances in NFL history with 350 combined yards.

This victory propelled Washington to the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1991, when they won their third Super Bowl. The road ahead featured the Philadelphia Eagles, another formidable opponent, but the Commanders proved they could defeat anyone. For Detroit, the heartbreak of coming so close to their first Super Bowl appearance will linger, as Jared Goff’s four turnovers derailed what had been a magical 15-2 season.

❓ FAQs Section

Q1: What was the final score of the Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions playoff game?

The Washington Commanders defeated the Detroit Lions 45-31 in the NFC Divisional Round on January 18, 2025, at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan.

Q2: How did Jayden Daniels perform in the washington commanders vs detroit lions match player stats?

Jayden Daniels delivered a historic performance, completing 22-of-31 passes for 299 yards and 2 touchdowns with a 122.9 passer rating. He added 51 rushing yards on 16 carries, totaling 350 combined yards with zero turnovers and zero sacks allowed. His 242 first-half passing yards set a rookie playoff record.

Q3: Who were the top performers for Washington in the game?

Mike Sainristil recorded 2 interceptions (first rookie since 2015 with 2 playoff INTs), Brian Robinson Jr. rushed for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns, Terry McLaurin caught a 58-yard TD, Dyami Brown had 6 receptions for 98 yards, and Quan Martin returned an interception 40 yards for a touchdown.

Q4: What doomed the Detroit Lions despite their 15-2 record?

The Lions turned the ball over five times, with Jared Goff throwing 3 interceptions and losing 1 fumble. Goff finished with a 59.7 passer rating. Detroit also threw an interception on a trick play attempt. The turnovers led directly to 21 Washington points and completely changed the game’s momentum.

Q5: What made the second quarter so historic in this playoff game?

The second quarter featured the highest-scoring quarter in NFL playoff history, with 42 combined points (Washington 28, Detroit 14). Washington outscored Detroit 28-14 in the quarter alone, taking a 31-21 halftime lead. The Commanders scored four touchdowns in the period, including a pick-six by Quan Martin.

Q6: What does this victory mean for the Washington Commanders’ franchise?

This victory advanced Washington to their first NFC Championship Game since 1991, ending a 33-year drought. It marked the Commanders’ first-ever road playoff wins in Detroit and their second road playoff victory in a single postseason (a franchise first). The win validated their incredible turnaround from 4-13 in 2023 to 14-5 in 2024, showcasing one of the NFL’s greatest single-season improvements.