In a thrilling NFC wild-card matchup, the Washington Commanders emerged victorious against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a final score of 23-20, marking the franchise's first playoff win in nearly 6,945 days. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who played through injury, led his team to a crucial win, throwing for 268 yards and two touchdowns. Zane Gonzalez secured the victory with a 37-yard field goal that sailed through the uprights as time expired.
The Commanders, who improved their record to 13-5, will advance to face the Detroit Lions in the divisional round. The Buccaneers, led by veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield, struggled to capitalize on key opportunities, culminating in a costly turnover in the fourth quarter that shifted momentum in Washington's favor.