Recap
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Washington Commanders Edge Out Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Playoff Nail-Biter

In a tightly contested NFL playoff game, the Washington Commanders emerged victorious over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a final score of 7-3. This win marks the end of both teams' journey in this season's playoffs, as neither team has any further games scheduled.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) scrambles away from Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner during the first half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)

Key Moments and Performances


The Commanders' defense was pivotal in securing this low-scoring affair. Notably, Jeremy Chinn contributed with three assists, showcasing the team's collective effort on defense. Bobby Wagner and Clelin Ferrell also made significant contributions with three tackles each, reinforcing the defensive wall that kept the Buccaneers at bay.


On offense, quarterback Jayden Daniels delivered an efficient performance by completing 75 percent of his passes for 97 yards and scoring the game's only touchdown. His connection with wide receiver Dyami Brown was crucial; Brown caught a touchdown pass that ultimately decided the game's outcome. Terry McLaurin also had an impactful game, leading receivers with 55 yards on three receptions which helped maintain offensive momentum at critical junctures.


Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) is pressured by Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Calijah Kancey during the first half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

The running game added another dimension to the Commanders' offense. Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. combined for 27 rushing yards from six attempts, contributing to a balanced attack that kept the Buccaneers' defense guessing.


Tampa Bay's Efforts


Despite their loss, Tampa Bay showed resilience throughout the match. Their defense managed to hold Washington to just one touchdown and limited them to under 150 total offensive yards. However, their offense struggled against a stout Washington defense and could only muster three points through a field goal.


Washington Commanders place kicker Zane Gonzalez, right, kicks the game winning field goal from the hold of Tress Way during the second half of an NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Tampa, Fla., Sunday, Jan. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Looking Ahead


The Washington Commanders are set to face off against Detroit Lions at Ford Field in Detroit on January 18th at 8:00 PM EDT. Fans can catch all of next season’s action broadcasted on FOX as both teams look forward to starting their campaigns positively after concluding this season’s playoff run.


This playoff victory for Washington not only highlighted key players stepping up in crucial moments but also demonstrated their ability to execute effectively on both sides of the ball under pressure. As fans reflect on this memorable win, they can look forward with anticipation to what promises to be an exciting upcoming season.


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