DETROIT, Mi. – For the first time since 1991, the Washington Commanders are heading to the NFC Championship game after defeating the Detroit Lions 45-28. In a game that featured two high potent offenses, the Commanders once again played an efficient and effective game. A big difference? The Lions 5 turnovers, three of them in the first half.
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It’s halftime in the NFC Divisional round playoff game between the Washington Commanders and Detroit Lions. In what’s been a shootout thus far, the Commanders hold a 31-21 halftime lead over the Lions.
Washington, playing in its first divisional round playoff game since the 2005-2006 season, has once again found sustained success on offense. Quarterback Jayden Daniels has thrown for 242 yards and two touchdowns. As the team continues to try and find a rushing attack, Brian Robinson Jr. has 35 yards on 5 carries and 1 touchdown.
On defense, the Commanders have forced three first half turnovers. The first was a forced fumble on Lions quarterback Jared Goff in plus territory. The second proved to be an interception returned for a touchdown by Quan Martin. That scoring play, put Washington up 24-14. The third interception stopped the Lions from scoring just before halftime.
During that return, Goff was nicked up a bit and missed Detroit’s ensuing drive so in stepped backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. Three plays under center, Bridgewater and the Lions ran a reverse hand-off to wide receiver Jameson Williams who burst down the field for a 61 yard touchdown. Goff did return prior to the half.
Washington responded with more big plays. Daniels hit Dyami Brown for a big 38 yard gain, leading to another Zach Ertz touchdown.
Jahmyr Gibbs had 96 rushing yards and 1 touchdown in the first half for the Lions.
Washington is seeking its first NFC Championship game appearance since 1991, the same season in which the franchise won the Super Bowl.