The Washington Commanders looked on the verge of being blown out in Sunday’s Week 2 game against the Denver Broncos. Down 21-3 in the second quarter, linebacker Jamin Davis sacked Denver quarterback Russell Wilson, forcing a fumble around midfield to give Washington some much-needed.
That turnover led the Commanders on an impressive comeback that saw them take a 35-24 lead midway through the fourth quarter.
As Washington fans know all too well, the game is never over. The Broncos kicked a field goal with under two minutes remaining to make it 35-27. Denver had one more opportunity, as Wilson’s hail-mary attempt somehow landed in the arms of Brandon Johnson. Uh oh. The game is 35-33, and Denver needs a two-point conversion to tie.
Washington’s defense responded as cornerback Benjamin St-Juste broke up Wilson’s pass to preserve an impressive Commanders’ comeback, winning the game 35-33.
Washington is 2-0 for the first time since 2011.
Commanders quarterback Sam Howell was phenomenal, completing 27 of 39 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns. Howell did not turn the ball over despite being sacked four times.
Running back Brian Robinson Jr. also had a big day, rushing for 87 yards on 18 attempts and scoring two touchdowns. Robinson also had 42 receiving yards on two receptions. Fellow back Antonio Gibson also had a solid performance, totaling 53 yards from scrimmage on five touches, four of which went for first downs.
The Commanders struggled on defense in the first quarter but turned things around on Davis’ sack and forced fumble. Washington would sack Wilson seven times, with defensive ends Chase Young and Montez Sweat each finishing with 1.5 sacks. Defensive tackle Daron Payne, Davis and defensive ends Casey Toohill and James Smith-Williams also recorded a sack.
Next up for the Commanders is the Buffalo Bills from FedEx Field in Week 3.