(Editor’s note: This is excerpted from Mike Sando’s Pick Six of Sept. 30, 2024.)
How Jayden Daniels is Revolutionizing the Washington Commanders and NFC East Title Race
The Washington Commanders have taken the NFC East by storm, rising to the top with a commanding 42-14 victory over Arizona, led by the exceptional play of Jayden Daniels. Their offense, under Daniels’ guidance, is exceeding all expectations, reaching heights reminiscent of prime Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers.
Washington’s scoring rate on drives stands at an impressive 68 percent, the highest in the league through four games since 2000, according to TruMedia. The Commanders now stand alongside the elite offenses of history, with even Brady’s 2007 Patriots not scoring as often in their record-breaking regular season.
Drive scoring rates, Games 1-4: 2000-24
| Team | QB | Rate |
|---|---|---|
|
Jayden Daniels |
67.6% |
|
|
Aaron Rodgers |
64.1% |
|
|
Tom Brady |
58.7% |
|
|
Tom Brady |
57.9% |
|
|
Jared Goff |
57.8% |
The Commanders’ offensive output has been consistently impressive, generating at least 8.0 expected points added (EPA) in each game this season, a feat they had not accomplished in over two successive games in the past 23 years.
Among rookie starting quarterbacks, Washington’s four-game streak with 8-plus off. EPA ranks as the second-longest since 2000, trailing only Russell Wilson’s 2012 Seahawks with five such games. The Commanders aim to tie this record against Cleveland in Week 5.
Streaks with 8-plus off. EPA and a rookie QB
| Rookie QB | Streak | # Games |
|---|---|---|
|
2012 Wks 13-17 |
5 |
|
|
2024 Wks 1-4 |
4 |
|
|
2016 Wks 9-12 |
4 |
|
|
2016 Wks 2-5 |
4 |
|
|
2008 Wks 9-12 |
4 |
|
|
2018 Wks 9-12 |
3 |
|
|
2004 Wks 6-9 |
3 |
Looking ahead, the season’s predictions are already being reshaped as Washington’s dynamic play surprises many. With Daniels leading the charge, the Commanders are defying expectations and establishing themselves as a force in the NFC East.
Daniels’ phenomenal completion rate of 82 percent stands as a historical achievement, surpassing even Tom Brady’s 2007 record. His accuracy on deep passes leads the league, showcasing his prowess as a game-changing quarterback.
GO DEEPER
Jayden Daniels, budding Commanders optimism and the psyche of a healing fan base
As competition intensifies and defenses adjust, Washington’s resilience and adaptability will be put to the test. The coming weeks’ matchups against stout defensive teams provide a new challenge for Daniels and the Commanders.
Despite the uncertainty that lies ahead, Washington’s electrifying start is a testament to their potential and the invigorating effect Daniels has had on the team and its supporters.
(Photo: Christian Petersen / Getty Images)
