Jets defeat Commanders 20-17 after a late field goal

The Commanders come up short in the preseason opener, but a perfect debut for Jayden Daniels.

The New York Jets defeated the Washington Commanders 20-17 in the first preseason game for both teams.

Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels started the game and completed two of his three passes for 45 yards, including a beautiful 42-yard completion to wide receiver Dyami Brown. Daniels capped off the drive with a three-yard touchdown run, and his day was over.

Veteran Marcus Mariota replaced Daniels, and he only played one drive before making way for Jeff Driskel and undrafted rookie Sam Hartman.

The Commanders took a 7-0 lead into the second quarter before Jets quarterback Andrew Peasley connected with wide receiver Jason Brownlee on a 12-yard touchdown to tie things up.

Washington kicker Ramiz Ahmed made a 40-yard field goal, with Jets kicker Greg Zuerlein answering it before halftime to tie things up at 10 apiece.

After a scoreless third quarter, Hartman led the Commanders on an impressive drive that rookie running back Michael Wiley capped off with a short touchdown run. New York answered when Israel Abanikanda scored to tie it up at 17.

Jets kicker Austin Seibert hit a 37-yard field goal with under one minute remaining to clinch New York’s win.

Washington’s quarterbacks combined to complete 18 of 32 passes for 212 yards and did not turn the ball over. The Commanders rushed for 119 yards and two touchdowns.

Washington is set to have another joint practice next week, this time with the Miami Dolphins, before the two teams play one another in Week 2 preseason action.