For the first time in their history, the Detroit Lions secured the No. 1 seed in the NFC, but their playoff run was cut short by the Washington Commanders.

Jayden Daniels and the Commanders upset the Lions with a score of 45-31 in Detroit, allowing them to progress to the NFC Championship Game.

The game featured a thrilling second quarter where both teams combined to score 42 points. By halftime, they had amassed a total of 621 yards.

Washington led 31-21 at the break and managed to maintain their advantage, marking the first time in 33 years that the Commanders have reached the NFC Championship Game.

Here’s what we discovered from the Commanders’ playoff matchup against the Lions:

Jayden Daniels is Prepared for the Pressure

Daniels displayed exceptional composure in only his second playoff game.

He showcased his skill with a remarkable 38-yard pass to Dyami Brown, likely the best throw of the playoffs so far.

The rookie quarterback completed 22 of 31 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns.

Washington is assured a road playoff game next week, likely facing either Philadelphia or Los Angeles. If they meet Philadelphia, they’ll encounter a notably challenging environment, but the rookie QB seems unfazed by pressure.

Zach Ertz: A Reliable Target

Veteran tight ends often serve as crucial allies for young quarterbacks, and Zach Ertz was just that on Saturday night.

Daniels connected with Ertz on a fourth-and-3 for a vital first down during the second quarter. He also found him for a five-yard touchdown on a third-and-goal later in the same period. Throughout the season, the veteran tight end has been a constant support for Daniels.

Ertz even played a key role on special teams, recovering an onside kick in the fourth quarter.

The 12-year veteran ended the game with five receptions for 28 yards and a touchdown.

Commanders’ Fourth Down Effectiveness Shines Again

The Commanders led the NFL with an impressive 87% conversion rate on fourth downs during the regular season and were solid again, converting 3 of 4 attempts against Detroit.

Whether they face the Rams or the Eagles next week, the Commanders’ opponents will have to prepare for all four downs.

Commanders’ Struggles in Run Defense Persist

The Commanders ranked as one of the worst teams in the NFL for run defense during the regular season, allowing 137 yards per game. Against Detroit, they surrendered 201 rushing yards, with Jahmyr Gibbs carrying the ball 14 times for 105 yards and a touchdown.

However, Washington’s defense did manage to create five turnovers (four interceptions and one fumble recovery).

Heading into the NFC Championship Game, the Commanders will need to improve their run defense, particularly since Eagles running back Saquon Barkley had a massive 296 yards and four touchdowns against them during the regular season.

Lions Defense Needs Recovery This Offseason

The Lions’ season came to an end with 13 defensive players on injured reserve, including key players like defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, defensive lineman Alim McNeill, and cornerback Carlton Davis.

Finishing 20th in the NFL for total defense, Detroit will enter the offseason coming off a disappointing end to a once-promising season, having allowed 45 points and 482 total yards in their final game.

Follow YSL News Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.