The opinions expressed in this article are from national reporters and do not reflect those of the team.
The Washington Commanders are in the Divisional round of the playoffs for the first time since 2006 after beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 23-20. Let's see how they stack up with the rest of this year's playoff teams.
USA Today
Rank: 7
- Nate Davis: We noted last week that no rookie quarterback has ever taken his team to the Super Bowl, and Bo Nix's Denver Broncos are already making tee times and resort reservations. But Jayden Daniels continues to perform beyond his years, the presumed Offensive Rookie of the Year coolly leading Washington to its first postseason win in nearly two decades.
Yahoo Sports
Rank: 6
- **Frank Schwab:** It's not like the Commanders are devoid of talent. But their roster is probably the least talented of the eight remaining playoff teams. That just speaks to how special Jayden Daniels has been. He's carrying this franchise. Washington is one big offseason away from being a legit contender.
Sporting News
Rank: 6
- **Vinnie Iyer:** The Commanders are not an ordinary team led by a rookie QB. Jayden Daniels remains extraordinary in Kliff Kingsbury's system, and they can get better offensively if they clean up some red-zone issues. Dan Quinn's defense has plenty of holes, however, and needs to make timely clutch plays with the front seven to continue a season-long surprise turnaround.
Sports Illustrated
Rank: 7
- Peter Dewey: Rookie Jayden Daniels continues to impress, orchestrating a game-winning drive to upset Tampa Bay. However, the Commaders opened as 8.5-ppint dogs in the divisional round against Detroit.
Pro Football Network
Rank: 7
- **Alex Kennedy:** Jayden Daniels and Co. went into Raymond James Stadium and pulled off the 23-20 upset over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, giving Washington its first postseason win since 2005. Washington joins last year's Texans as the only teams in NFL history to win a playoff game the same year they drafted a quarterback top-two overall.
FOX Sports
Rank: 7
- **Bucky Brooks:** Jayden Daniels' superstar talent gives the Commanders a puncher's chance against any team in the playoffs. The rookie sensation is an unstoppable playmaker with a unique style that enables him to win with his arm or legs inside or outside the pocket. Though it is hard for a one-man show to knock off a heavyweight in the tournament, Daniels could guide the Commanders past the divisional round with a jaw-dropping performance showcasing his dynamic dual-threat skills.
