Washington Commanders vs Philadelphia Eagles Match Player Stats: Deep Dive Into Every Key Performer
The December 22, 2024 matchup between Washington and Philadelphia delivered pure excitement. This Week 16 game ended with a stunning 36-33 victory for the Commanders. The win came at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Fans witnessed an incredible comeback performance.
Philadelphia entered the game riding a 10-game winning streak. They looked unstoppable throughout the season. However, Washington had different plans that evening. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels led his team to victory. He threw the game-winning touchdown with just six seconds remaining.
Offensive Stars: Who Moved the Ball?
The offensive units from both teams put on a show. Points came from explosive passing plays and powerful runs. Quarterbacks made smart decisions under heavy pressure. Receivers created separation and caught difficult passes. Running backs broke tackles and gained tough yards.
Jayden Daniels: The Rookie Hero
Jayden Daniels proved why Washington drafted him early. The 23-year-old quarterback played with remarkable composure. He threw for 288 yards against Philadelphia’s top-ranked defense. He connected on three touchdown passes to different receivers.
Daniels also showed elite rushing ability throughout the game. He ran for 85 yards on designed runs and scrambles. He scored one rushing touchdown by dodging multiple defenders. His total offensive production reached an impressive 373 yards.
The final drive showcased his clutch gene perfectly. Washington needed 57 yards with minimal time remaining. Daniels stayed calm and delivered accurate passes. He found Jamison Crowder in the end zone for the winner.
Saquon Barkley: Philly’s Running Star
Saquon Barkley dominated the first quarter with explosive runs. He rushed for 109 yards in just the opening 15 minutes. He scored two touchdowns to give Philadelphia an early lead. His power and speed combination proved nearly unstoppable initially.
By game’s end, Barkley accumulated 148 rushing yards total. He also caught two passes for an additional 10 yards. His early performance gave the Eagles a commanding 14-0 advantage.
Washington’s defense made adjustments to slow him down later. They loaded the box with extra defenders near scrimmage. They forced Philadelphia to rely more on their passing game. Still, Barkley’s impact remained significant throughout the contest.
Terry McLaurin: Washington’s Trusted Receiver
Terry McLaurin delivered his best performance against Philadelphia ever. The veteran receiver caught eight passes for 149 yards. He scored one touchdown on a perfectly thrown deep ball. His route running created separation against elite cornerback coverage.
McLaurin’s yards after catch ability impressed throughout the game. He broke tackles and gained extra yardage consistently. His physical style wore down Philadelphia’s secondary over time. Defenders struggled to bring him down on first contact.
Against the Eagles across his career, McLaurin has over 900 receiving yards. No other opponent has allowed him to accumulate that much. He consistently rises to the occasion in this rivalry. His competitive fire burns brightest against division opponents.
A.J. Brown: Philly’s Big-Play Maker
A.J. Brown remained a constant threat despite backup quarterback play. He caught six passes for 80 yards total. His four-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter kept Philadelphia competitive. His physical style creates mismatches against smaller defensive backs.
With Kenny Pickett filling in after Hurts’ injury, Brown adjusted well. He ran shorter routes to help the backup quarterback. He created larger catch windows with his size advantage. His veteran experience helped stabilize the passing attack.
Against Washington this season, Brown has been highly productive overall. He has 19 catches for 258 yards across three meetings. He has scored two touchdowns in those contests combined. His average of over 13 yards per catch shows big-play ability.
Noah Brown: Washington’s Hidden Gem
Noah Brown emerged as an unexpected star in this matchup. He caught five passes for 108 yards impressively. His 28-yard touchdown catch showcased his ability to get open. When defenses focused on McLaurin, Brown found space consistently.
This performance represented Brown’s best game of 2024 by far. He exceeded his season averages in every receiving category. His experience playing for Cleveland and Dallas helped him succeed. At 28 years old, he understands how to exploit coverage.
Other Offensive Notes
Austin Ekeler contributed 62 rushing yards for Washington’s ground attack. His speed and agility provided a change of pace. He caught several passes out of the backfield effectively. His versatility creates matchup problems for opposing linebackers.
Brian Robinson Jr. added 42 rushing yards with physical running. He consistently gained tough yards between the tackles. His bruising style wore down Philadelphia’s defensive front. Late-game carries helped Washington control the clock effectively.
Philadelphia’s Kenneth Gainwell rushed for 29 yards as Barkley’s backup. He provided fresh legs during key possessions. His contributions helped keep the starting running back rested. His pass protection also proved valuable throughout the game.
Offensive Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Pass Yards | Rush Yards | Receptions | Rec Yards | Total TDs |
| Jayden Daniels | WAS | QB | 288 | 85 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Saquon Barkley | PHI | RB | 0 | 148 | 2 | 10 | 2 |
| Terry McLaurin | WAS | WR | 0 | 0 | 8 | 149 | 1 |
| A.J. Brown | PHI | WR | 0 | 0 | 6 | 80 | 1 |
| Noah Brown | WAS | WR | 0 | 0 | 5 | 108 | 1 |
| Austin Ekeler | WAS | RB | 0 | 62 | 3 | 25 | 0 |
Defensive Standouts: Who Stopped the Plays?
Defense wins championships according to football wisdom. Both teams featured elite defensive units this season. They pressured quarterbacks and stopped running backs effectively. They created turnovers and made crucial fourth-down stops. Their contributions proved just as vital as offensive heroics.
Frankie Luvu: Washington’s Tackle King
Frankie Luvu led all defenders with 11 total tackles. The linebacker seemed to be everywhere simultaneously on the field. He stopped running plays and covered pass catchers effectively. His sack of Kenny Pickett created a crucial loss of yardage.
Luvu’s speed allows him to cover sideline to sideline effortlessly. He reads offensive formations quickly and adjusts positioning accordingly. His instincts lead him directly to ball carriers consistently. Opposing offenses struggle to block him in space effectively.
Earlier this season, Luvu delivered a massive hit on Jalen Hurts. That play demonstrated his physical, aggressive playing style clearly. He plays with controlled violence on every single snap. His intensity sets the tone for the entire defense.
Zack Baun: Philly’s Turnover Creator
Zack Baun recorded nine tackles and forced one critical fumble. His fumble recovery stopped a promising Washington scoring drive. He consistently disrupted plays in the backfield all game. His pursuit speed allows him to chase down ball carriers.
Baun has emerged as a Defensive Player of the Year candidate. He leads Philadelphia in several key defensive statistics this season. His ability to read plays pre-snap gives him an advantage. He anticipates offensive actions before they fully develop.
Josh Sweat: Philly’s Sack Machine
Josh Sweat recorded two sacks and three tackles for loss. The defensive end lived in Washington’s backfield repeatedly. He pressured Jayden Daniels on nearly every passing down. His speed rush around the edge proved nearly unstoppable.
Philadelphia’s defensive line leads the entire NFL in total sacks. Sweat contributes significantly to that impressive statistic. He collapses the pocket and forces quarterbacks to move uncomfortably. His relentless motor never stops until the whistle blows.
Sweat’s technique has improved dramatically over recent seasons. He uses both power and finesse moves to beat blockers. He studies film extensively to understand opponent tendencies. His preparation shows up in his consistent production levels.
Dante Fowler Jr.: Washington’s Pass Rusher
Dante Fowler Jr. recorded 1.5 sacks and four total tackles. The defensive end joined Washington mid-season from Dallas. He immediately provided an upgrade to the pass rush. His veteran experience shows up in crucial moments consistently.
Fowler’s sacks on Kenny Pickett disrupted Philadelphia’s offensive rhythm. He timed his rushes perfectly to maximize impact. His ability to finish plays separates him from average rushers. He converts pressure into sacks better than most players.
Secondary Players
Philadelphia’s rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell defended two passes impressively. He showed excellent technique and competitive spirit throughout. His development has exceeded expectations for a first-year player. He could develop into an elite cornerback soon.
Washington safety Darrick Forrest intercepted one pass to stop a drive. His ball skills and range allow him to make plays. He covers ground quickly and arrives violently on tackles. His presence improves the entire secondary’s performance level.
Defensive Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | Tackles | Sacks | TFL | Forced Fumbles | Interceptions |
| Frankie Luvu | WAS | LB | 11 | 1.0 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Zack Baun | PHI | LB | 9 | 0.0 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Josh Sweat | PHI | DE | 5 | 2.0 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Dante Fowler Jr. | WAS | DE | 4 | 1.5 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Quinyon Mitchell | PHI | CB | 3 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Darrick Forrest | WAS | S | 5 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
Special Teams: Kickers and Returners
Special teams often determine outcomes in close games. Field position advantages can swing momentum dramatically. Reliable kickers provide points when offenses stall out. Quality returners set up favorable starting positions for offenses.
Jake Elliott: Philly’s Steady Kicker
Jake Elliott converted three field goals from significant distances. He made kicks from 42, 45, and 48 yards. His accuracy kept Philadelphia within striking distance throughout. His leg strength allows attempts from beyond 50 yards.
This season, Elliott has connected on 25 of 29 attempts. His 86 percent success rate ranks among league leaders. He holds Philadelphia’s record for most 50-plus yard field goals. His consistency provides confidence to coaches on fourth downs.
Elliott handles pressure situations extremely well throughout his career. He has made numerous game-winning kicks over the years. His mental toughness matches his physical abilities perfectly. Philadelphia trusts him completely in critical moments.
Austin Seibert: Washington’s Game-Tying Kicker
Austin Seibert also made three field goals for Washington. He converted from 36, 40, and 50 yards successfully. His 50-yard kick tied the game late in regulation. His leg strength matches anyone in the entire league.
Seibert has converted 90 percent of his attempts this season. He replaced Joey Slye earlier in the year effectively. His arrival has stabilized Washington’s kicking game completely. Coaches trust him to attempt kicks from any distance.
His kickoffs consistently reach the end zone for touchbacks. This pins opponents at the 25-yard line to start drives. Field position advantages accumulate throughout close games significantly.
Return Game
The return game failed to produce any explosive, game-changing plays. Both teams covered kicks and punts effectively overall. Special teams coordinators emphasized field position and discipline. Neither team allowed return touchdowns or huge gains.
Washington’s Olamide Zaccheaus handled punt return duties reliably throughout. He caught every punt cleanly without any muffed attempts. His decision-making on when to fair catch showed maturity. He provided stable, if unspectacular, return contributions consistently.
Special Teams Stats Table
| Player | Team | Position | FG Made | FG Attempts | Long FG | XP Made | XP Attempts |
| Jake Elliott | PHI | K | 3 | 3 | 48 | 3 | 3 |
| Austin Seibert | WAS | K | 3 | 3 | 50 | 3 | 3 |
Team Stats Comparison
| Category | Washington | Philadelphia |
| Total Yards | 481 | 434 |
| Passing Yards | 288 | 245 |
| Rushing Yards | 193 | 189 |
| First Downs | 28 | 22 |
| Time of Possession | 32:15 | 27:45 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 1 |
| Sacks Allowed | 3 | 2 |
Washington accumulated more total offensive yards than Philadelphia. They passed for significantly more yards through the air. Both teams ran the ball effectively with similar totals. Washington controlled possession time and ran more offensive plays.
Daniels’ two interceptions hurt Washington’s turnover margin significantly. Philadelphia only committed one turnover by comparison. Protecting possession usually determines close game outcomes. Washington overcame their turnover deficit through other advantages.
Third-down conversions proved crucial for both offensive units. Washington converted 8 of 15 third-down attempts successfully. Philadelphia converted 6 of 12 attempts throughout the game. These conversion rates kept drives alive and offenses on schedule.
Season and Playoff Impact
This victory improved Washington’s record to 10-5 for the season. The win boosted their playoff positioning significantly in the NFC. They likely secured at least a wild card berth. Their playoff chances increased dramatically with this statement victory.
Jayden Daniels strengthened his Offensive Rookie of the Year case. His clutch performance against elite competition impressed voters. His season statistics rank among the best for first-year quarterbacks. He has exceeded all reasonable expectations for rookie development.
Philadelphia’s 10-game winning streak ended with this surprising loss. Jalen Hurts’ concussion concerns created worry for the team. However, they remained 12-3 and controlled their playoff destiny. They later clinched the NFC East division title comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the December 22, 2024 Commanders vs Eagles game?
Washington won 36-33 on a last-second touchdown pass from Jayden Daniels.
How many yards did Jayden Daniels account for?
Daniels totaled 373 yards with 288 passing and 85 rushing.
Who led the game in rushing yards?
Saquon Barkley led with 148 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns.
Which kickers made field goals in the game?
Both Jake Elliott and Austin Seibert made three field goals each.
Who had the most tackles in the game?
Frankie Luvu led all players with 11 total tackles.
Conclusion
The December 22, 2024 matchup between Washington and Philadelphia delivered unforgettable drama. Jayden Daniels emerged as the game’s biggest star overall. His 373 total yards and game-winning touchdown showcased his potential. He proved capable of leading clutch drives under pressure.
Saquon Barkley’s 148 rushing yards nearly carried Philadelphia to victory. His early dominance gave the Eagles a significant lead. However, Washington’s defense adjusted and slowed him down successfully. His performance still ranks among the season’s best individual efforts.
