Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions Match Player Stats – Complete 2025 Playoff Breakdown
Looking for the most telling Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions match player stats from their epic 2025 NFC Divisional Playoff clash?
I’ve got you covered with every crucial number that mattered in this surprising 45-31 upset.
This match wasn’t just another playoff game – it was a statement from a rookie quarterback and a defensive masterclass in capitalising on opponent mistakes.
Let’s break down what really happened.
Jayden Daniels: The Rookie Who Played Like a Veteran
Jayden Daniels didn’t just play well – he made history:
- 22/30 completed passes (73.3% completion rate)
- 299 passing yards with 2 touchdowns
- 51 rushing yards on 7 attempts
- 137.4 passer rating in the first half
- Zero turnovers throughout the game
What’s truly remarkable is Daniels becoming the first rookie QB in NFL history to record 300+ total yards in consecutive playoff games.
His clutch 18-yard scramble in the fourth quarter helped extend a critical drive when the Lions were threatening a comeback.
Washington’s Supporting Cast Stepped Up Big Time
The Commanders’ victory wasn’t a one-man show:
Brian Robinson Jr. dominated the ground game:
- 88 rushing yards
- 2 touchdowns
- Crucial 12-yard score in the fourth quarter
Terry McLaurin exploited matchup advantages:
- 6 receptions
- 112 yards
- 34-yard touchdown
Zach Ertz became a red zone weapon:
- Key 19-yard touchdown reception
- Consistently beat linebackers in coverage
Defensive Standouts Created Turning Points
Washington’s defence turned this game on its head:
Mike Sainristil picked off two crucial passes:
- Game-sealing interception on a failed Lions trick play
- Consistently jumped routes at perfect moments
Quan Martin’s pick-six changed everything:
- 40-yard interception return for touchdown
- Shifted momentum, giving Washington a 24-14 lead
The defensive line applied constant pressure, resulting in 3 sacks and 9 QB hits that forced Goff into rushed decisions.
Detroit’s Self-Inflicted Wounds Proved Fatal
Despite outgaining Washington in total yards (514-489), the Lions’ mistakes were simply too costly:
Jared Goff’s nightmare performance:
- 4 total turnovers (3 interceptions, 1 fumble)
- 64.3 passer rating under pressure
- Forced throws into coverage
The Lions did have offensive bright spots:
Amon-Ra St. Brown continued his elite play:
- 9 catches
- 145 yards
- Multiple contested catches
Jahmyr Gibbs showcased his dual-threat ability:
- 2 touchdowns (1 rushing, 1 receiving)
- 132 scrimmage yards
- But a costly second-half fumble halted momentum
The Statistical Battle That Decided Everything
When you compare the key stats, the story becomes clear:
| Category | Commanders | Lions |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 489 | 514 |
| Turnovers | 0 | 5 |
| Red Zone Efficiency | 4/4 (100%) | 3/5 (60%) |
| Third-Down Conversions | 8/14 (57%) | 5/12 (42%) |
| Time of Possession | 33:17 | 26:43 |
The -5 turnover margin and red zone inefficiency proved decisive for Detroit.
Washington scored touchdowns on all four red zone trips, while Detroit settled for field goals twice.
Game-Changing Moments That Shifted Momentum
After trailing 14-10 early, Washington scored 21 unanswered points via:
- Quan Martin’s Pick-Six: Goff’s errant throw was undercut by Martin who raced untouched to the end zone
- Daniels-to-McLaurin Connection: A 34-yard touchdown on a post route exposed single coverage
- Sainristil’s First Interception: Goff’s forced pass sailed high, giving Washington excellent field position
In the fourth quarter, Detroit closed to 31-28, but Washington responded with:
- 14-0 Run: A 7-yard Brian Robinson TD and a 23-yard strike to Jeremy McNichols
- Clock Management: Washington held the ball for 10:47 in the final quarter, limiting Detroit to just two possessions
What This Game Means Going Forward
Washington advances to face the Rams-Eagles winner, carrying momentum from a game defined by opportunistic defence and offensive ingenuity.
For Detroit, this loss extends their Super Bowl drought and raises questions about Goff’s long-term viability despite a 15-win season.
This game will be remembered for its record-setting offence (1,003 combined yards) and the emergence of Jayden Daniels as a playoff-caliber quarterback.
FAQs About Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions Match Player Stats
How many turnovers did Jared Goff commit? Goff committed 4 total turnovers – 3 interceptions and 1 fumble, all occurring in the first half.
Did Jayden Daniels set any records in this game? Yes, Daniels became the first rookie quarterback in NFL history to record 300+ total yards in two consecutive playoff games.
What was the time of possession difference? Washington controlled the ball for 33:17 compared to Detroit’s 26:43, giving them a significant 6:34 advantage.
How efficient were both teams in the red zone? The Commanders were perfect at 4/4 (100%) while the Lions converted 3/5 (60%) of their red zone opportunities.
What was the biggest statistical difference in the game? The turnover battle was the most significant difference – Washington had zero turnovers while Detroit committed five.
This shocking upset victory showcased why the Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions match player stats tell a story beyond the final score – a tale of rookie excellence, opportunistic defence, and how turnovers can completely change playoff fortunes.
