The Washington Commanders stunned the Philadelphia Eagles 36-33 on December 22, 2024. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels threw a game-winning touchdown with just 6 seconds left. This thriller at Northwest Stadium ended Philadelphia’s 10-game winning streak.
Washington improved to 10-5 while the Eagles fell to 12-3. Both teams displayed incredible skill and determination. This deep dive breaks down every key performer’s stats from offense, defense, and special teams.
Offensive Stars: Who Moved the Ball?
Offense wins games by scoring points through passing and rushing. Both teams had players who dominated. Jayden Daniels threw for 288 yards and ran for 85 more.
Saquon Barkley rushed for 148 yards in the first half alone. Terry McLaurin caught 8 passes for 149 yards. These offensive stars made big plays when it mattered most.
Jayden Daniels: The Rookie Hero
Jayden Daniels put on a show. He threw for 288 yards with 3 touchdown passes. He also rushed for 85 yards and scored 1 rushing touchdown. That’s 373 total yards of offense. His performance was remarkable for a rookie quarterback.
Daniels faced the NFL’s top-ranked defense. He threw two interceptions early in the game. But he didn’t panic. He stayed composed. In the final minute, he led a crucial 57-yard drive. He found Jamison Crowder in the end zone for the winning score.
His ability to run makes him dangerous. Defenders struggle to contain him. He dodges tackles and extends plays. This season, he has over 3,500 passing yards. He’s a leading candidate for Rookie of the Year. This game proved he can perform in high-pressure situations.
Saquon Barkley: Philly’s Running Star
Saquon Barkley exploded in the first quarter. He rushed for 109 yards and scored 2 touchdowns before the quarter ended. By game’s end, he had 148 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns. He also caught 2 passes for 10 yards.
His early dominance gave Philadelphia a 14-0 lead. He broke tackles with power. He used speed to get past defenders. Washington’s defense adjusted and slowed him down later. But the damage was already done.
Barkley joined the Eagles in 2024 from the Giants. He has over 1,500 rushing yards this season. He’s one of the league’s elite running backs. When Jalen Hurts left with an injury, Barkley carried the offense. His performance kept Philadelphia competitive throughout.
Terry McLaurin: Washington’s Trusted Receiver
Terry McLaurin had his best game against Philadelphia. He caught 8 passes for 149 yards and 1 touchdown. His connection with Daniels was strong all game long.
McLaurin makes difficult catches look easy. He runs precise routes. He creates separation from defenders. His touchdown came on a deep pass from Daniels. He now has over 900 career yards against the Eagles.
In six NFL seasons, McLaurin has 450+ catches. That’s a Commanders record for a player’s first six years. He’s a veteran leader who guides young teammates. His consistency makes him Daniels’ favorite target.
A.J. Brown: Philly’s Big-Play Maker
A.J. Brown stayed productive despite quarterback changes. With Kenny Pickett replacing injured Jalen Hurts, Brown caught 6 passes for 80 yards and 1 touchdown.
His 4-yard touchdown grab in the third quarter kept the Eagles close. Brown is tall, strong, and difficult to tackle. He uses his body to shield defenders. Against Washington this season, he has 19 catches for 258 yards and 2 touchdowns across three games.
Brown averages over 13 yards per catch. That makes him a big-play threat. He missed games earlier due to injury. But he’s healthy now and crucial for Philadelphia’s playoff run.
Noah Brown: Washington’s Hidden Gem
Noah Brown surprised everyone with his performance. He caught 5 passes for 108 yards and a 28-yard touchdown. This was his best game of 2024.
When defenses focus on McLaurin, Brown finds open space. He’s reliable and experienced. At 28 years old, he’s played for Cleveland and Dallas. His veteran savvy helps Washington’s passing game.
Brown doesn’t get headlines like McLaurin. But he makes important contributions. His touchdown extended Washington’s lead. His ability to step up matters in close games.
Other Offensive Notes
Austin Ekeler contributed 62 rushing yards for Washington. Brian Robinson Jr. added 42 yards on the ground. Philadelphia’s Kenneth Gainwell ran for 29 yards.
Zach Ertz made his return to Philadelphia memorable. The former Eagles tight end caught a late touchdown for Washington. He also converted a 2-point conversion. His contributions helped seal the victory.
The offensive battle was thrilling. Both teams moved the ball effectively. Big plays happened on both sides.
Offensive Stats Table
| Player | Team | Passing Yds | Rushing Yds | Receiving Yds | TDs |
| Jayden Daniels | WAS | 288 | 85 | – | 4 |
| Saquon Barkley | PHI | – | 148 | 10 | 2 |
| Terry McLaurin | WAS | – | – | 149 | 1 |
| A.J. Brown | PHI | – | – | 80 | 1 |
| Noah Brown | WAS | – | – | 108 | 1 |
Defensive Standouts: Who Stopped the Plays?
Defense is all about stopping the other team from scoring. Great defenders tackle ball carriers and sack quarterbacks. Frankie Luvu led Washington with 11 tackles.
Zack Baun forced a crucial fumble for Philadelphia. Josh Sweat recorded 2 sacks on Jayden Daniels. These defensive players made game-changing stops throughout the contest.
Frankie Luvu: Washington’s Tackle King
Frankie Luvu led Washington’s defense with 11 tackles and 1 sack. He was everywhere on the field. Tackles stop the offense’s forward progress. Sacks knock quarterbacks backward for lost yardage.
Luvu’s speed allows him to cover runs and passes. He pressured Kenny Pickett consistently. Earlier this season, he delivered a big hit on Jalen Hurts. With over 100 tackles in 2024, he’s having a career year.
Luvu is a free agent after this season. Washington hopes to re-sign him. His leadership and production are invaluable.
Zack Baun: Philly’s Turnover Creator
Zack Baun recorded 9 tackles and forced 1 fumble. His forced fumble stopped a promising Washington drive. He’s quick to read offensive plays.
Baun is a Defensive Player of the Year candidate. He went undrafted in 2020. Now he’s essential to Philadelphia’s top-ranked defense. His instincts make him dangerous.
Philadelphia’s defense relies on his versatility. He can rush the passer or drop into coverage. His all-around game is impressive.
Josh Sweat: Philly’s Sack Machine
Josh Sweat terrorized Jayden Daniels. He recorded 2 sacks and 3 tackles for loss. His relentless pressure disrupted Washington’s timing.
Philadelphia’s defensive line leads the NFL in sacks. Sweat is a major reason why. He uses speed and technique to beat blockers. His work kept the Eagles competitive.
Sweat’s consistency makes him elite. He shows up every week. Quarterbacks fear his pass rush.
Dante Fowler Jr.: Washington’s Pass Rusher
Dante Fowler Jr. notched 1.5 sacks and 4 tackles. He joined Washington mid-season from Dallas. His impact was immediate.
His sacks on Kenny Pickett slowed Philadelphia’s offense. Fowler has 10 sacks this season. That’s his best total since 2019. He’s found a new life in Washington.
Pass rushers change games. Fowler provides consistent pressure. His production helps Washington’s defense succeed.
Secondary Players
Eagles rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell defended 2 passes. Washington safety Darrick Forrest intercepted a pass. These plays shifted momentum.
Washington’s defense made a crucial goal-line stand. They stopped Philadelphia near the end zone. This stop proved decisive in the final outcome.
Defensive Stats Table
| Player | Team | Tackles | Sacks | Forced Fumbles | Interceptions |
| Frankie Luvu | WAS | 11 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Zack Baun | PHI | 9 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Josh Sweat | PHI | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Dante Fowler Jr. | WAS | 4 | 1.5 | 0 | 0 |
| Darrick Forrest | WAS | – | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Defensive Impact Chart
Both defenses created turnovers and pressure. Washington’s defense made more timely stops. Philadelphia’s defense generated more sacks. The battle in the trenches was fierce.
Special Teams: Kickers and Returners
Special teams handle field goals, extra points, and kick returns. Kickers can win or lose close games with their accuracy. Jake Elliott made all 3 field goals for Philadelphia.
Austin Seibert matched him with 3 field goals for Washington. His 50-yard kick tied the game late. Both kickers performed flawlessly under pressure.
Jake Elliott: Philly’s Steady Kicker
Jake Elliott made all 3 field goal attempts. He connected from 42, 45, and 48 yards. His accuracy kept Philadelphia in the game.
Elliott is 25-of-29 in 2024. He holds Philadelphia’s record for most 50+ yard field goals in one season. His leg strength is reliable. His consistency gives the Eagles confidence.
Kickers win close games. Elliott’s performance was crucial. He delivered under pressure.
Austin Seibert: Washington’s Game-Tying Kicker
Austin Seibert also made 3 field goals. He hit from 36, 40, and 50 yards. He converted all 3 extra points. His 50-yard field goal tied the game late.
Seibert is 90% accurate in 2024. He replaced Joey Slye earlier this season. He’s proven to be an upgrade. His kicks in critical moments matter.Reliable kickers are essential. Seibert provides that reliability. Washington trusts him completely.
Return Game
No spectacular returns occurred in this game. Washington’s Olamide Zaccheaus handled punts cleanly. Philadelphia’s Britain Covey averaged 10 yards per punt return.
Field position matters in close games. Both return units did their jobs. They gave their offenses good starting positions.
Special Teams Stats Table
| Kicker | Team | Field Goals Made | Field Goals Attempted | Extra Points |
| Jake Elliott | PHI | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Austin Seibert | WAS | 3 | 3 | 3 |
Team Stats Comparison
Washington passed for 315 total yards. Philadelphia rushed for 187 yards. The Commanders held possession longer. They ran 68 offensive plays to Philadelphia’s 54.
Daniels threw 2 interceptions. Pickett threw 1. Turnovers nearly cost Washington the game. But their offense recovered.
Time of possession favored Washington 33:27 to 26:33. More plays mean more opportunities. Washington’s offense controlled the tempo.
Offensive Yards Chart
Washington’s passing attack outgained Philadelphia. Philadelphia’s rushing game was superior. Both teams exceeded 300 total yards. The offensive production was balanced.
Season and Playoff Impact
This victory pushed Washington to 10-5. They entered the playoff race as a wild card contender. Daniels’ performance boosted his Rookie of the Year case.
Philadelphia’s 10-game winning streak ended. Jalen Hurts’ injury raised concerns. But the Eagles still clinched the NFC East title. At 12-3, they remained dangerous.
In the playoffs, these teams met again. Philadelphia dominated Washington 55-23 in the NFC Championship. Barkley rushed for 118 yards and 3 touchdowns. That game was different.
Historically, Washington leads the rivalry 72-71-4. These division games are always competitive. Neither team gives an inch.
FAQs
Who won the Commanders vs Eagles game on December 22, 2024?
Washington Commanders won 36-33 with a last-second touchdown from Jayden Daniels to Jamison Crowder.
How many yards did Jayden Daniels have?
Jayden Daniels had 373 total yards (288 passing, 85 rushing) with 4 total touchdowns.
What were Saquon Barkley’s stats?
Saquon Barkley rushed for 148 yards and 2 touchdowns, including 109 yards in the first quarter alone.
Who led the defense in tackles?
Frankie Luvu led Washington with 11 tackles and 1 sack, while Zack Baun had 9 tackles for Philadelphia.
How accurate were the kickers?
Both kickers were perfect. Jake Elliott made 3 field goals for Philadelphia, and Austin Seibert made 3 for Washington.
Conclusion
The December 22, 2024 game between Washington and Philadelphia delivered excitement. Jayden Daniels proved he’s a clutch performer. His 373 total yards and game-winning touchdown showcased his talent.
Saquon Barkley’s 148 rushing yards nearly carried Philadelphia to victory. Terry McLaurin and Noah Brown gave Daniels reliable targets. A.J. Brown kept Philadelphia’s offense alive. Defenders like Frankie Luvu and Zack Baun made crucial stops.
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