Jayden Daniels shines as Washington Commanders earn MNF victory against Cincinnati Bengals

The third week of the 2024 NFL season included the year’s first “Monday Night Football” doubleheader, concluding with the Washington Commanders (1-1) squaring off against the Cincinnati Bengals (0-2).

After managing their first win under head coach Dan Quinn in Week 2—despite not scoring a touchdown—Washington triumphed over the New York Giants 21-18 with six successful field goals. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels entered Week 3 leading the league among starters with a 75.5% completion rate. Additionally, the Commanders feature the fifth-best rushing offense in the league, bolstered by Daniels’ adept mobility.

Sitting unexpectedly at 0-2, Cincinnati has faced defeats against New England and Kansas City in the early part of the season. The Bengals have struggled in September, recording a 3-7 record since the beginning of the 2022 season. Good news for them may include the return of wide receiver Tee Higgins, who missed the first two games due to a hamstring issue. On defense, Cincinnati has been solid, ranking second in the league for fewest passing yards allowed per game (128.5).

This game is historical as it marks the first occurrence since 1981 that two former LSU Tigers would be starting at quarterback. Washington won their last encounter against Cincinnati, 20-9, during Week 11 of the 2020 season.

YSL News Sports will be providing live updates, highlights, and more during Monday’s face-off between the Bengals and the Commanders:

Bengals drop to 0-3 after unexpected loss to Commanders

The Bengals were unable to recover an onside kick at the end of regulation, sealing their defeat against the Commanders and marking their third straight loss of the season.

Washington maintained control against Cincinnati throughout the game, scoring on six of their eight offensive drives, with the exceptions being kneels to run out the clock at the end of each half. Jayden Daniels set a rookie record with a remarkable 91% completion rate, steering the Commanders to their second consecutive win.

Despite Joe Burrow and the Bengals offense showing promise, they remained without a win. They will enter their Week 4 game against the Carolina Panthers eager to secure their first victory.

Zack Moss makes 1-yard touchdown run as Bengals trail late, 38-33

Moss notched his initial touchdown of the game following a pass interference penalty that moved the Bengals to the 1-yard line.

The Bengals added an extra point to narrow the Commanders’ lead to 38-33, with only 40 seconds left on the clock. Cincinnati needs to recover an onside kick to have a chance against Washington.

Jayden Daniels connects with Terry McLaurin for a 27-yard TD; Commanders lead, 38-26

The Commanders faced challenges lining up on third-and-7, but Jayden Daniels noticed Terry McLaurin getting open beyond the marker in one-on-one coverage. The rookie quarterback executed a perfect deep throw to McLaurin, who secured the touchdown.

Austin Seibert successfully kicked the extra point, extending the Bengals’ deficit to 12 points with just 2:10 remaining in the game.

Commanders convert crucial fourth-and-4

The Bengals seemed set to halt Washington’s momentum when the Commanders faced a second-and-21 after a false start and a sack by Trey Hendrickson.

However, Washington executed back-to-back screen passes to Dyami Brown, setting up a pivotal fourth-and-4. Instead of opting for a punt or a lengthy field goal, Dan Quinn chose to go for it. Jayden Daniels successfully connected with tight end Zach Ertz for a 9-yard gain, securing a fresh set of downs.

Joe Burrow finds Ja’Marr Chase for a 31-yard TD; Commanders lead, 31-26

In an immediate response to Washington’s field goal, the Bengals moved quickly down the field. They traveled 70 yards in just 1:48, capped off by a 31-yard touchdown pass from Joe Burrow to Ja’Marr Chase, marking Chase’s second touchdown of the night.

The Bengals attempted a two-point conversion, but Burrow’s pass to Tee Higgins fell incomplete. The Cincinnati crowd was vocal in protests, hoping for a pass interference call, but the referees did not penalize the Commanders.

Austin Seibert nails 42-yard field goal; Commanders extend lead to 31-20

The Bengals finally managed to halt Jayden Daniels and the Commanders’ offense, but not before Washington advanced into field goal range. Austin Seibert, who successfully made seven field goals in his Commanders debut the previous week, converted from 42 yards, extending Washington’s lead to two possessions.

Austin Ekeler injury update: RB sidelined with a concussion

Austin Ekeler sustained a head injury during the Commanders’ touchdown drive to kick off the second half and has been ruled out for the remainder of the game due to a concussion.

End of third quarter: Commanders 28, Bengals 20

As the third quarter concludes, not a single punt has occurred in the game. Both teams’ offenses have performed well, though the Commanders have proven to be more efficient, scoring on all three red-zone opportunities compared to the Bengals’ 1-for-3 performance.

Cincinnati’s defense struggles to stop Jayden Daniels and the Commanders’ offense, raising concerns as falling to 0-3 looms if they cannot generate a stop or create a turnover before time runs out.

Joe Burrow connects with Andrei Iosivas for TD on fourth-and-goal; Commanders lead, 28-20

On a crucial third-and-goal, Joe Burrow slightly misfired on a pass intended for Tee Higgins.

from the 2-yard line, but he didn’t miss the opportunity on fourth-and-goal. He connected with Andrei Iosivas, who was maneuvering toward the outside pylon, allowing the second-year wide receiver to grab the football and cross the goal line just ahead of Noah Igbinoghene’s tackle.

Evan McPherson successfully converted the extra point, nestling it inside the right upright, increasing the Commanders’ lead to 28-20.

Update on Austin Ekeler’s Injury

Austin Ekeler has been a dynamic force for the Commanders this evening, but he exited their most recent touchdown drive after appearing to sustain an injury. He received medical attention on the sidelines before being escorted to the locker room due to what the broadcast indicated might be a “possible concussion.”

Trent Scott Scores 1-Yard Touchdown; Commanders Lead 28-13

The Commanders executed a clever play from the 1-yard line, where Jayden Daniels faked a handoff to Brian Robinson Jr. before rolling out and finding Trent Scott, who was left alone in the end zone.

Austin Seibert successfully converted the extra point, extending Washington’s lead to 28-13.

Austin Ekeler Returns Second-Half Kickoff for 62 Yards

The Commanders kicked off the second half impressively, with Austin Ekeler catching the opening kickoff within his own 5-yard line and racing to Cincinnati’s 34-yard line. Washington is already in field goal range as the half begins.

Halftime Update: Commanders 21, Bengals 13

The Commanders logged an outstanding first half on the road against the Bengals. They found the end zone on all three of their drives, aside from a kneel-down before halftime, scoring touchdowns with three different players: Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Jayden Daniels.

Although Cincinnati has a yardage advantage of 236-205 over Washington, they have struggled in the red zone. Their only touchdown came from a 41-yard completion from Joe Burrow to Ja’Marr Chase, while three other drives ended in field goal attempts (two successful, one unsuccessful).

Washington will receive the kickoff to start the second half, looking to extend their 8-point halftime lead.

Bengals Settle for 31-Yard Field Goal

Cincinnati faltered in the red zone once more after moving 57 yards through nine plays. Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase nearly connected for a first down on a third-and-6, leading Zac Taylor to call for Evan McPherson to complete the drive.

McPherson successfully kicked a 31-yard field goal, reducing Washington’s lead to 21-13.

Jayden Daniels Connects with Terry McLaurin for 55-Yard Gain, Scores Rushing Touchdown

Daniels and McLaurin had not linked up much in the opening games of the season, but they finally connected for a big play against the Bengals, with McLaurin splitting a pair of defenders to set up a first-and-goal situation.

Daniels then followed through with a 4-yard touchdown run, increasing the Commanders’ lead to 21-10.

Evan McPherson Converts 28-Yard Field Goal

After missing a 48-yard attempt, McPherson bounced back successfully with a straightforward 28-yard field goal, slicing Washington’s lead down to four.

The Bengals continued to move the ball effectively, yet the Commanders delivered a solid performance in defensive coverage in the red zone, prompting the field goal attempt.

Bengals vs. Commanders: Austin Ekeler Breaks Free for 24-Yard Touchdown Run

The Commanders scored for the second consecutive drive, as Ekeler exploited a gap on the left side and surged through for the touchdown.

Ekeler has exploded out of the gate, amassing 54 yards and a touchdown on four plays with the ball, giving the Commanders a 14-7 edge in the second quarter.

Noah Brown Makes Spectacular Sliding Catch

Jayden Daniels sent a low pass aimed at Brown on a second-and-10, and the veteran receiver made an impressive diving catch. He skillfully managed to cradle the ball under his arms, bringing Washington close to field goal distance.

Bengals’ Evan McPherson Misses 48-Yard Field Goal

The Bengals stalled after Tee Higgins’ reception and were forced to attempt a 48-yard field goal, which Evan McPherson missed wide left. This ended McPherson’s streak of 29 successful field goals from within 50 yards for the third-year kicker.

Washington will regain possession with a chance to seize the lead for the first time.

First Quarter Ends: Commanders and Bengals Tied

Both the Bengals and Commanders have showcased strong offensive performances so far in their “Monday Night Football” matchup. Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels combined to complete 11 out of 12 passes for 138 yards and one touchdown during the opening quarter.

Neither team’s defense has offered much resistance thus far, suggesting this could turn into a high-scoring game, as many had anticipated.

Tee Higgins Records First Catch Returning from Injury

After missing the first two contests of the season due to a hamstring injury, Tee Higgins returned to the Bengals roster for the game against the Commanders. He made his first reception of the season on Cincinnati’s second series, gaining 14 yards for a first down while bouncing off a tackle with his robust frame.

Is Luke McCaffrey Related to Christian McCaffrey?

For those curious, yes: Luke McCaffrey is the younger sibling of Christian McCaffrey. Luke was selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL draft from Rice and has joined Washington’s receiver group during his rookie campaign.

He began his college journey at Nebraska in 2019, initially as a quarterback but eventually transitioning to wide receiver to enhance his chances of reaching the NFL.

Brian Robinson Scores 1-Yard Touchdown Run in Response to Bengals’ Score

The Commanders successfully marched down the field on their initial drive as running back Brian Robinson pushed through for a 1-yard touchdown.

Robinson’s score was set up by an excellent pass from Jayden Daniels to Luke McCaffrey during a fourth-and-2 play from Cincinnati’s 32-yard line. McCaffrey made the catch to secure the first down, moving the ball down to the 2-yard line before being pushed out of bounds.

Austin Ekeler Turns Screen Pass into 14-Yard Gain

The Commanders have been effective offensively on their opening drive against the Bengals, and Ekeler has been a central figure. He showcased his skills on his third touch, catching a screen pass in the backfield.

He managed to convert what seemed like a certain loss in the backfield into a first down, gaining 14 yards while being pressured.

Joe Burrow connects with Ja’Marr Chase for a 41-yard touchdown

The Bengals started strong on “Monday Night Football.” After methodically advancing the ball, Burrow targeted Chase and connected effortlessly with his college teammate.

Chase contributed with two receptions for 42 yards, including the touchdown on their opening drive.

Commanders vs. Bengals game details

Date: Monday, September 23, 2024
Time: 8:15 p.m. ET

The showdown between the Commanders and the Bengals will conclude the first “Monday Night Football” doubleheader of the 2024 NFL season, kicking off at 8:15 p.m. ET.

The Bills will face the Jaguars earlier that night, beginning at 7:30.

Where to watch Monday Night Football tonight?

TV: ABC
Live stream: ESPN+

The second game of tonight’s doubleheader, featuring the Washington Commanders against the Cincinnati Bengals, will be aired on ABC.

Commentators for the ABC broadcast include Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (color analysis), and Lisa Salters (sideline reporting).

Bengals inactives vs. Commanders

The Bengals welcome back wide receiver Tee Higgins for their game against the Commanders, adding significant depth to their receiving group.

Here’s the list of inactive players for the Bengals against Washington:

Inactives for Commanders vs. Bengals

The Commanders are still waiting for cornerback Emmanuel Forbes to recover from a thumb injury. Below are the inactive players for the Commanders facing Cincinnati:

Predicting Commanders vs. Bengals outcomes

Here are the predictions from YSL News Sports staff for this Week 3 “Monday Night Football” contest:

Lorenzo Reyes: Bengals 30, Commanders 13
Tyler Dragon: Bengals 26, Commanders 20
Richard Morin: Bengals 27, Commanders 20
Jordan Mendoza: Bengals 22, Commanders 15

Rookie QB rushing record: Jayden Daniels may break the record

Robert Griffin III currently holds the record for the most rushing yards in a rookie season by a quarterback, achieving this with Washington in 2012 while winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year title. RGIII amassed 120 rush attempts, leading the NFL with an average of 6.8 yards per carry. Jayden Daniels is on track for over 220 rush attempts and more than 1,100 rushing yards, potentially surpassing Lamar Jackson’s record of 147 rushing attempts for a rookie season.

Robert Griffin III (Washington, 2012): 815 rushing yards
Cam Newton (Carolina, 2011): 706 rushing yards
Lamar Jackson (Baltimore, 2018): 695 rushing yards
Josh Allen (Buffalo, 2018): 631 rushing yards
Vince Young (Tennessee, 2006): 552 rushing yards
Kyler Murray (Arizona, 2019): 544 rushing yards
Billy Kilmer (San Francisco, 1961): 509 rushing yards
Russell Wilson (Seattle, 2012): 489 rushing yards
Justin Fields (Chicago, 2021): 420 rushing yards

Is Tee Higgins playing against the Commanders?

Tee Higgins is anticipated to make his season debut against the Commanders on “Monday Night Football.” After missing the first two weeks due to a hamstring injury, Bengals coach Zac Taylor confirmed that Higgins will be at full strength for the game.

Last season, Higgins achieved 42 catches for 646 yards and five touchdowns in 12 games, having missed five games due to rib and hamstring issues.

NFL’s highest-paid players by position

We have compiled a comprehensive list of the highest-paid players at each position:

Quarterbacks
Running backs
Wide receivers
Tight ends
Offensive tackles
Offensive guards
Centers
Edge rushers
Interior defensive linemen
Linebackers
Cornerbacks
Safeties
Kickers
Punters

AFC North standings overview

Currently, the Bengals are the only team in the AFC North without a win, but a victory over the Commanders on Sunday Night Football could create a three-way tie for second place. The Steelers have had an unexpectedly strong start, remaining undefeated alongside the Chiefs, Seahawks, and Vikings through three weeks.

Steelers 3-0

Ravens 1-2

Browns 1-2

Bengals 0-2

NFC East standings recap

A win for the Commanders on Sunday Night Football would put them in a tie for the top spot in the NFC East with the Eagles. The Cowboys, however, are struggling after two consecutive home losses against the Saints and Ravens.

Eagles 2-1

Commanders 1-1

Giants 1-1

Cowboys 1-2

Weather conditions for Bengals vs. Commanders

Weather could play a role in the Bengals’ game against the Commanders. The temperature is expected to be pleasant in the 70s at game time, but rain and thunderstorms are possible from 6 to 8 p.m. near Paycor Stadium.

As per the Weather Channel, winds will be light, reaching a maximum of 5 mph, although early storms are a possibility.

First matchup of LSU QBs in NFL for 43 years: Joe Burrow vs. Jayden Daniels

The Commanders-Bengals matchup marks a rare occurrence in the NFL: a face-off between two former LSU quarterbacks. Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow, who won the Heisman Trophy and a national championship with the Tigers in 2019, is set to compete against Washington rookie Jayden Daniels, who took home the Heisman in 2023 and was picked second overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Who is currently the highest-paid NFL player?

According to OverTheCap.com, the highest earners in the NFL by average annual salary are all quarterbacks. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott has become the league’s highest-paid player after signing a four-year contract worth $240 million. Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson is the next highest-paid player, becoming the first non-quarterback on the elite list with a four-year, $140 million contract extension this offseason.

Joe Burrow, Jayden Daniels, and Others Dine at Local Restaurant Before Bengals vs. Commanders Game

Ahead of their Monday Night Football showdown at Paycor Stadium, the Cincinnati Bengals and the Washington Commanders enjoyed a tasty meal together.

On Sunday night, key players from both teams, including quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels, dined at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse. This information was shared in a post on X by the restaurant’s owner. Additionally, coaching staff, team owners, general managers, former players, and the ESPN broadcast crew also joined the dinner, according to Ruby’s announcement.

Ruby didn’t clarify if the teams were eating together or at separate locations.

“It’s a pleasure as a restaurateur to host both the Commanders and Bengals tonight,” Ruby expressed. “Thank you all. Our guests appreciated your presence.”

Odds for Commanders vs. Bengals: Moneyline and Over/Under

According to BetMGM NFL odds, the Bengals are favored to win against the Commanders. If you’re looking to bet, explore the top mobile sports betting apps providing NFL betting promotions for 2024, including the ESPN BET app and Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.

Point Spread: Bengals (-7.5)
Moneyline: Cincinnati (-375); Washington (+290)
Over/Under: 47

Injury Report for Washington Commanders

OUT

DE Clelin Ferrell (knee)

QUESTIONABLE

CB Emmanuel Forbes (thumb)

Injury Report for Cincinnati Bengals