It’s something that seemed crazy to think about just a few weeks ago, but the Washington Commanders may just be playoff contenders.
The team is now 4-4 having won its third straight game on Sunday, taking home a thrilling victory at the Indianapolis Colts, 17-16. A two-minute drill to end the game saw a clutch performance by the entire offense, stealing the win with just 22 seconds to go.
Why Washington won
That late drive. Oh, what a drive it was. It had a fourth down conversion, it had Taylor Heinicke scrambling, it had two really fantastic throws. It was an amazing display of courage by the former Old Dominion quarterback. It spanned 89 yards and 2:17 minutes with nine plays taking them down the field. A fourth-and-two conversion to Curtis Samuel got the drive going, and Heinicke finished it off with one-yard run up the middle for the game-clinching touchdown.
Why the Colts lost
That defense. They had a decent showing but really caved on that final drive, giving Washington nearly every through they wanted. They failed on fourth down, Stephon Gilmore got owned, and they just did not execute at the most critical moments of the game.
Game-changing moment
On Indy’s 34 yard line with 41 seconds to go, Heinicke launched a pass to Terry McLaurin, who incredibly snatched the ball from Gilmore and landed on the one-yard line. It got them over a third of the yards they needed on the drive on just one fantastic play, and Heinicke did the rest.
Player of the game
It just has to be Heinicke. He went 23-for-31 for 279 yards with a touchdown and an interception, and he also had 29 yards on the ground on six carries. He looked like a savvy veteran on that final drive.
Key statistic
The Commanders won the game despite going 2-for-12 on third downs.
What’s next
Washington (4-4) faces the Minnesota Vikings (6-1) next Sunday at 1 p.m. at FedEx Field.
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Chris Graham
