The return of Jayden Daniels was a big deal.
But based on his previous performance, and him wearing a knee brace, expectations were muted.
JD5 looked tentative early and Washington’s first two drives went nowhere. By the end of the first quarter, the Chargers led 10-0 and had outgained Washington 120 yards to 30.
In one play, everything changed. Justin Herbert hit Quentin Johnston for 19 yards and safety Quan Martin punched the ball loose. Marshon Lattimore recovered it, and suddenly Washington had life.
Nine plays later, rookie running back Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt glided into the end zone for a 15-yard touchdown.
From that point on, every Washington drive ended in points and the home team eventually triumphed 27-10.
More drama
A Chargers punt return for a touchdown was wiped out by a flag after punter Tress Way was roughed on the kick.
To his credit, Tress went down and laid there, selling the look of a man who would never walk again, before standing up and glancing back at his well-earned penalty flag, presumably with a cheeky smile.
On the very next snap, Daniels finally had time and launched a 50-yard strike to Luke McCaffrey. The drive ended in a field goal, tying the game 10-10 at half-time instead of 17-7, which was a crucial swing. Arguably that one penalty saved the day for Washington, coming when it did.
Not surprisingly, given that momentum-sealing penalty, the second half was all Washington.
Croskey-Merritt added another score and finished with 150 total yards, earning a well-deserved man-of-the-match nod. The rookie’s breakout pushed Washington to first in the NFL in rushing, all without Austin Ekeler or Brian Robinson.
Passion and purpose
Deebo Samuel reminded everyone why his signing mattered. He racked up 96 yards, taking his season total to 300, double any teammate’s contribution.
Daniels shook off the rust and, for the first time this year, Washington’s offense looked dynamic again.
Defensively, the secondary still looked vulnerable, but the unit swarmed the ball and pressured Herbert all afternoon. After weeks of frustration, Washington finally played with passion and purpose.
Statistically, the defense still ranks near the bottom in yards allowed, yet their energy against the Chargers suggested progress.
If they can maintain that intensity, and keep the ground game rolling, Washington’s playoff hopes might not be as far-fetched as they seemed two weeks ago.
Looking ahead to Monday Night Football
Next up are the Chicago Bears, who are not particularly strong on offense in any category.
In defense, they are ranked fifth against the pass, but they are weak against the run. That plays into Washington’s strengths.
Here’s hoping a 10-day break does no take away the team’s momentum and can give some of the injured players time to return.
