The Dallas Cowboys are set to conclude their season by hosting the Washington Commanders, who are enjoying a successful campaign under rookie head coach Dan Quinn. The Commanders, with an impressive 11-5 record, are on the verge of a postseason appearance for the first time since 2020, largely thanks to standout performances from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Daniels has made a significant impact, setting an NFL record for rushing yards by a rookie quarterback with 864 yards, surpassing Robert Griffin III's previous record.

Daniels' accolades include being named NFC Offensive Player of the Week in Week 3, where he achieved a remarkable 91.3% completion rate while throwing for 293 yards and three touchdowns against the Cincinnati Bengals. His consistency has been historic, as he became the first rookie to throw for two touchdowns and over 200 yards while rushing for 65 yards in three consecutive games. As the Cowboys prepare for their matchup, Daniels boasts impressive season stats: 3,530 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and nine interceptions.

Under Quinn's leadership, the Commanders have also made notable improvements on offense, particularly with the hiring of Kliff Kingsbury as offensive coordinator. The team ranks highly in scoring and total yards, showcasing a balanced offensive attack. Meanwhile, Washington's defense, led by former Cowboys assistant Joe Whitt Jr., has excelled, ranking ninth in yards allowed per game. The Commanders’ defensive unit has been bolstered by Dante Fowler Jr., who leads the team in sacks.

Despite some challenges, including a high number of sacks allowed by their offensive line and penalties, the Commanders have maintained a competitive edge. They enter the game with a solid turnover differential and a strong defensive presence, making for an intriguing matchup against the Cowboys, who are looking to end their season on a high note.