Sep 153 min read

FOCUS on NFL: Commanders vs Giants, Game 2

LANDOVER, Md. — Jayden Daniels bounced back from his NFL debut to earn his first win as a professional quarterback, leading the Washington Commanders to a 21-18 victory over the New York Giants. While the game was far from perfect, the Commanders got it done, largely thanks to a stellar kicking performance from Austin Seibert, who set a franchise record by going 7-for-7 on field goals, including the game-winner as time expired.

Daniels’ Grit Leads to First Career Victory

After a tough Week 1, Daniels returned with determination. Despite some offensive struggles in the red zone, Daniels kept the offense moving, completing 23 of 29 passes for 226 yards and rushing for 44 yards. More importantly, he orchestrated the Commanders’ final drive to set up Seibert’s 30-yard game-winning field goal.

“It wasn’t the prettiest game, but a win is a win,” Daniels said postgame. The rookie quarterback leaned on his LSU connection, swapping jerseys with former teammate Malik Nabers, who put up a solid performance for the Giants. Nabers finished with 127 yards on 10 receptions and scored his first NFL touchdown.

1. Seibert’s Big Day

After replacing Cade York earlier in the week, Austin Seibert wasted no time proving his worth. Seibert knocked in seven field goals, accounting for all but one of Washington’s points. His consistency and poise under pressure helped secure the Commanders’ first win of the season.

“To have a franchise record in your first game, that’s a big deal,” said head coach Dan Quinn. Seibert himself mentioned that he approached each kick like he was “kicking at the pine tree in [his] backyard” — a unique ritual that clearly paid off.

2. Robinson and Ekeler Power the Ground Game

The rushing attack played a key role in the victory. Brian Robinson Jr. had a career day, running for 133 yards on 17 carries, including two long runs of 32 and 40 yards. Robinson’s efforts helped open up the field for Daniels and provide a much-needed balance to the Commanders’ offense. Austin Ekeler added his own contributions in the passing game, combining with Robinson for over 150 total yards.

3. Defensive Struggles and Key Turnover

Washington’s defense had its ups and downs. They struggled to contain Malik Nabers, who repeatedly found openings in the secondary. However, a key turnover in the third quarter helped swing momentum back to the Commanders. Benjamin St-Juste punched the ball free from Devin Singletary, and Jeremy Chinn recovered it to set up a Seibert field goal that tied the game at 12.

Bobby Wagner and Frankie Luvu were also standout performers, combining for crucial tackles and setting the tone on defense. Wagner’s leadership and Luvu’s physicality helped Washington control key moments down the stretch.

Key Stats

Jayden Daniels: 23/29, 226 passing yards, 44 rushing yards
Brian Robinson Jr.: 133 rushing yards
Austin Seibert: 7/7 field goals (franchise record)
Malik Nabers: 10 receptions, 127 yards, 1 TD
Benjamin St-Juste: 1 forced fumble, 1 pass breakup

What’s Next? The Commanders face a quick turnaround as they travel to take on the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday Night Football, a formidable test against Joe Burrow and one of the AFC’s top teams. Washington will need to clean up its red zone efficiency if they hope to compete with Cincinnati's high-powered offense.