On December 22, 2024, the Washington Commanders defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 36-33. The game took place at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. This Week 16 matchup in the 2024 NFL season was thrilling. Both teams showed incredible heart and skill throughout the contest.
The Eagles entered with a 10-game winning streak impressively. However, the Commanders, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, staged a comeback. Daniels threw a touchdown pass with just 6 seconds left. This secured the dramatic victory for Washington completely.
This victory improved Washington’s record to 10-5 significantly. Their playoff chances boosted dramatically with this win. Philadelphia, now 12-3, remained strong in the NFC East. This article dives into the stats of standout players. We’ll examine offense, defense, and special teams performances thoroughly.
Offensive Stars: Who Moved the Ball?
Offense is about scoring points through passing and running. Both teams had players who shined brightly in this game. The offensive performance determined the outcome ultimately. Here are the top performers who made the difference.
Jayden Daniels: The Rookie Hero
Jayden Daniels, Washington’s 23-year-old quarterback, played like a veteran. He threw for 288 yards and 3 touchdowns impressively. He also ran for 85 yards and scored 1 touchdown. That’s a total of 373 yards of offense generated!
Most quarterbacks focus primarily on passing the ball effectively. However, Daniels is also a fast, elusive runner. His speed helps him dodge defenders chasing him. In the final minute, he led a crucial 57-yard drive. He threw the winning touchdown to Jamison Crowder perfectly.
Despite two interceptions earlier in the game, he stayed calm. This shows he can learn from mistakes and improve. Daniels has over 3,500 passing yards this season total. This makes him one of the top rookies nationwide.
Facing the Eagles’ number-one ranked defense was challenging. He rose to the occasion when it mattered most. His clutch performance in the final seconds sealed victory. This game solidified his Rookie of the Year candidacy.
Saquon Barkley: Philly’s Running Star
Saquon Barkley, the Eagles’ star running back, started explosively. In the first quarter alone, he ran for 109 yards. He also scored 2 touchdowns during that opening period. By the end, he had 148 rushing yards total.
He finished with 2 touchdowns and 2 catches for 10 yards. Rushing yards show how far he ran with the ball. Touchdowns are worth 6 points each for the team. Barkley’s early runs gave Philly a commanding 14-0 lead.
The Commanders slowed him down in later quarters strategically. But his early impact was absolutely huge for Philadelphia. Barkley joined the Eagles in 2024 after playing for Giants. He has over 1,500 rushing yards this year impressively.
This makes him one of the NFL’s best runners currently. With quarterback Jalen Hurts injured early, Barkley carried the offense. His performance kept Philadelphia competitive throughout the game. He remains a crucial weapon in the Eagles’ arsenal.
Terry McLaurin: Washington’s Trusted Receiver
Terry McLaurin, a Commanders wide receiver, excels at catching tough passes. He had 8 catches for 149 yards and 1 touchdown. This was his best game against the Eagles ever.
Yards after catch show how far he ran after catching. His touchdown came from a long pass by Daniels. McLaurin now has over 900 career yards against Philly. No other team has allowed him this many yards.
In his sixth season, McLaurin has over 450 catches total. This is a Commanders record for a player’s first 6 years. He’s a veteran leader who helps younger players like Daniels.
His consistency and reliability make him invaluable to Washington. He creates separation from defenders with excellent route running. McLaurin’s experience showed in critical moments throughout the game. His touchdown reception gave Washington crucial momentum when needed.
A.J. Brown: Philly’s Big-Play Maker
A.J. Brown, an Eagles wide receiver, is physically dominant. He’s tall, strong, and incredibly hard to tackle. With backup quarterback Kenny Pickett playing after Hurts’ injury, Brown stepped up.
He caught 6 passes for 80 yards and 1 touchdown. His 4-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter was crucial. This kept the Eagles close in a tight contest.
Against Washington this year, Brown has impressive statistics. He has 19 catches for 258 yards and 2 touchdowns. His average of over 13 yards per catch makes him dangerous. Every reception threatens to become a big play quickly.
Brown missed some games earlier due to injury concerns. However, he’s now a key part of Philly’s playoff push. His physical presence creates mismatches against smaller defenders. Brown’s ability to win contested catches is elite-level talent.
Noah Brown: Washington’s Hidden Gem
Noah Brown, another Commanders receiver, had a breakthrough day. He caught 5 passes for 108 yards impressively. His 28-yard touchdown reception was perfectly executed and crucial.
This was his best game of the entire 2024 season. When defenses focus on McLaurin, Brown finds open space. At 28 years old, his experience from Cleveland and Dallas helps.
His veteran knowledge benefits the younger Washington offense significantly. Brown provides a reliable secondary option for Daniels. His ability to capitalize on opportunities proved valuable today. This performance showed why Washington values his contributions greatly.
Other Offensive Notes
Austin Ekeler ran for 62 yards for Washington effectively. Brian Robinson Jr. added 42 rushing yards to the total. Philly’s Kenneth Gainwell ran for 29 yards in limited action.
Washington’s Zach Ertz, a former Eagle, made emotional contributions. He caught a late touchdown and a 2-point conversion. This added a personal touch to the Commanders’ win. His familiarity with Philadelphia proved advantageous in crucial moments.
The offense was exciting throughout the entire contest. Passes soared through the air with precision and power. Runs broke through determined defenders repeatedly and successfully.
Offensive Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Passing Yards | Rushing Yards | Receiving Yards | Touchdowns |
| Jayden Daniels | WAS | QB | 288 | 85 | – | 4 (3 pass, 1 rush) |
| Saquon Barkley | PHI | RB | – | 148 | 10 | 2 |
| Terry McLaurin | WAS | WR | – | – | 149 | 1 |
| A.J. Brown | PHI | WR | – | – | 80 | 1 |
| Noah Brown | WAS | WR | – | – | 108 | 1 |
| Austin Ekeler | WAS | RB | – | 62 | – | 0 |
| Brian Robinson Jr. | WAS | RB | – | 42 | – | 0 |
Defensive Standouts: Who Stopped the Plays?
Defense is about stopping the other team from scoring points. They tackle ball carriers, sack quarterbacks, and steal the ball. Both teams had strong defenses throughout the game. However, Washington’s defense made the crucial difference when needed.
Frankie Luvu: Washington’s Tackle King
Linebacker Frankie Luvu led Washington with 11 tackles and 1 sack. Tackles stop plays from advancing further down the field. Sacks knock quarterbacks backward, causing significant yardage losses.
Luvu’s speed lets him cover runs and passes effectively. He pressured backup quarterback Pickett often and consistently. Earlier this season, he hit Eagles QB Jalen Hurts hard.
With over 100 tackles in 2024, Luvu is exceptional. He’s a free agent Washington desperately hopes to keep. His leadership and playmaking ability are irreplaceable on defense. Luvu’s consistency throughout the season has been remarkable consistently.
Zack Baun: Philly’s Turnover Creator
Philadelphia linebacker Zack Baun had 9 tackles and forced a fumble. His fumble recovery stopped a dangerous Washington drive cold. This turnover gave Philadelphia excellent field position temporarily.
Baun is a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. He’s incredibly quick at reading offensive plays. Undrafted in 2020, he’s now a vital part of Philly’s defense.
His story represents the ultimate underdog success narrative. Baun’s instincts and football IQ are exceptional qualities. He consistently makes plays that change game momentum dramatically.
Josh Sweat: Philly’s Sack Machine
Defensive end Josh Sweat had 2 sacks and 3 tackles for loss. His relentless pressure on Daniels was constant and effective. Sweat’s speed off the edge creates problems for tackles.
Philly’s defensive line, including Sweat, leads the NFL in sacks. His work kept the game close despite offensive struggles. Sweat’s ability to disrupt timing is a valuable asset.
He consistently forces quarterbacks to make quick, uncomfortable decisions. His presence alters offensive game plans significantly every week.
Dante Fowler Jr.: Washington’s Pass Rusher
Defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. had 1.5 sacks and 4 tackles. He joined Washington mid-2024 from the Dallas Cowboys. His immediate impact has been substantial and noticeable quickly.
His sacks on Pickett slowed Philly’s offensive rhythm down. Fowler has 10 sacks this season, his best since 2019. His veteran presence stabilizes Washington’s defensive line rotation.
Fowler’s experience in big games shows in pressure situations. He knows how to perform when stakes are highest.
Secondary Players
Eagles’ rookie corner Quinyon Mitchell defended 2 passes excellently. Washington’s safety Darrick Forrest caught a crucial interception late. Washington’s defense stopped Philly near the goal line critically.
This goal-line stand was key to the eventual win. The secondary’s coverage forced Pickett into difficult throws repeatedly. Their performance complemented the pass rush perfectly and effectively.
Defensive Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Tackles | Sacks | Interceptions | Forced Fumbles |
| Frankie Luvu | WAS | LB | 11 | 1.0 | 0 | 0 |
| Zack Baun | PHI | LB | 9 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Josh Sweat | PHI | DE | 5 | 2.0 | 0 | 0 |
| Dante Fowler Jr. | WAS | DE | 4 | 1.5 | 0 | 0 |
| Quinyon Mitchell | PHI | CB | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Darrick Forrest | WAS | S | 7 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Defensive Impact Chart
The defensive statistics reveal Washington’s slight advantage in key areas. Luvu’s tackle total led all defenders on both teams. Philadelphia generated more sacks but Washington created more turnovers.
Turnovers proved more valuable than sacks in this particular game. Washington’s defense made crucial stops when it mattered most. The goal-line stand exemplified their determination and execution. Both defenses played at high levels throughout the contest.
Special Teams: Kickers and Returners
Special teams handle kicks, punts, and returns strategically. They can change a game in one single play. Both teams had reliable specialists performing under pressure consistently.
Jake Elliott: Philly’s Steady Kicker
Eagles kicker Jake Elliott made 3 field goals successfully. These came from 42, 45, and 48 yards distances. He’s 25-of-29 in 2024, showing remarkable consistency throughout.
Elliott holds Philly’s record for most 50+ yard field goals. His kicks kept the Eagles in the game constantly. Elliott’s reliability provides confidence for the coaching staff always.
He rarely misses high-pressure kicks in crucial situations. This dependability makes him a valuable asset for Philadelphia.
Austin Seibert: Washington’s Game-Tying Kicker
Commanders kicker Austin Seibert also made 3 field goals successfully. These came from 36, 40, and 50 yards respectively. He also converted 3 extra points flawlessly after touchdowns.
His 50-yard kick tied the game late in the contest. Seibert is 90% accurate in 2024, exceptionally reliable overall. He stepped up after replacing previous kicker Joey Slye midseason.
His kicks were crucial in keeping Washington competitive throughout. Seibert’s accuracy under pressure proved invaluable to the victory.
Return Game
No big returns stood out in this particular game. Washington’s Olamide Zaccheaus caught punts cleanly and safely. Philly’s Britain Covey averaged 10 yards per punt return consistently.
The return game was solid but not spectacular today. Both teams executed returns without major mistakes or breakthroughs. Field position remained relatively stable throughout the contest consistently.
Special Teams Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Field Goals Made | Extra Points | Longest Kick | Accuracy |
| Jake Elliott | PHI | K | 3/3 | 3/3 | 48 yards | 100% |
| Austin Seibert | WAS | K | 3/3 | 3/3 | 50 yards | 100% |
| Britain Covey | PHI | PR | – | – | – | 10 yds/return |
| Olamide Zaccheaus | WAS | PR | – | – | – | 8 yds/return |
Team Stats Comparison
| Stat Category | Washington Commanders | Philadelphia Eagles |
| Total Yards | 434 | 380 |
| Passing Yards | 288 | 143 |
| Rushing Yards | 146 | 237 |
| First Downs | 24 | 21 |
| Time of Possession | 31:45 | 28:15 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 1 |
| Penalties | 6-45 | 5-35 |
Washington passed for more yards while Philly ran better. The Commanders held the ball longer with more plays. Daniels’ turnovers hurt but the defense made stops.
Washington’s total yardage advantage proved crucial ultimately and decisively. Time of possession favored the Commanders, controlling game tempo. Philadelphia’s rushing attack was superior but not enough alone.
Offensive Yards Chart
Washington generated 288 passing yards compared to Philadelphia’s 143 yards. However, Philadelphia rushed for 237 yards versus Washington’s 146 yards. Total offense favored Washington 434 to 380 yards significantly.
The balanced attack helped Washington control the game’s pace. Philadelphia relied more heavily on the running game today. Washington’s passing efficiency proved more effective in crucial moments.
Season and Playoff Impact
This win pushed Washington to 10-5 records impressively. This put them in the playoff race, likely as wild card. Daniels’ clutch performance strengthens his Rookie of the Year case.
Philly’s 10-game win streak ended with this loss disappointingly. Hurts’ injury (concussion check) raised serious concerns for playoffs. Still, with Barkley and strong defense, they clinched NFC East.
In the playoffs, Philly dominated Washington 55-23 in NFC Championship. Barkley rushed for 118 yards and 3 touchdowns decisively. This showed Philadelphia’s ultimate superiority when it mattered most.
Historically, Washington leads the rivalry 72-71-4 narrowly overall. These games are always close and competitive consistently. The rivalry continues producing memorable moments for both franchises.
Conclusion
The December 22, 2024, Commanders-Eagles game was absolutely unforgettable. Jayden Daniels’ 373 total yards and game-winning touchdown stole the show. He outshined Saquon Barkley’s impressive 148 rushing yards performance. Defenders like Luvu and Baun fought hard throughout the contest.
Kickers Elliott and Seibert were clutch when teams needed them. This breakdown highlights every key player’s significant impact clearly. The stats show skill, heart, and incredible drama unfolding. Terry McLaurin’s 149 receiving yards provided crucial offensive firepower.
Noah Brown’s breakout performance added another dimension to Washington’s attack. The defensive battle featured tackles, sacks, and critical turnovers. Special teams executed flawlessly under immense pressure throughout.
Washington’s balanced offense and opportunistic defense won the game. Philadelphia’s early dominance couldn’t withstand Washington’s second-half comeback. The final drive showcased Daniels’ composure and talent perfectly.
This game reminds us why football is so exciting. Every play matters and momentum can shift instantly. Both teams displayed championship-caliber talent and determination consistently. For more details, visit NFL.com for additional statistics and analysis.
The victory secured Washington’s playoff berth and boosted their confidence. Philadelphia learned valuable lessons despite the disappointing loss today. These NFC East rivals will continue their intense competition for years. This memorable game will be discussed by fans for seasons.
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