3 reasons why Jayden Daniels and Commanders will pull an upset win over Dan Campbell's Lions in divisional round

Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels leads his team into Detroit to take on the No. 1 Lions in the NFC divisional round on Saturday.

Daniels delivered the Commanders their first postseason win since the 2005 season, both of which came against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Daniels, who is touted to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, will need to continue his magical season for his team to stand a chance at beating the Lions.

Led by coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have been one of the most impressive teams in the NFL this season, ending the regular season with a 15-2 record, which is good enough for the 1st seed in the NFC. But here are three reasons why Daniels and the Commanders can upset them in the divisional round.

Why Commanders will pull an upset win over Lions in the divisional round

#1 - Pass Attack

NFL: Why Commanders will pull an upset win over Lions in divisional round (Image Source: Imagn)

Jayden Daniels has lit the NFL alight during his incredible rookie campaign, and he's also proven he doesn't need elite talent around him to get it done.

Whilst star receiver Terry McLaurin has been his main passing outlet, the likes of Zach Ertz, Dyami Brown, and Olamide Zaccheaus have all made big contributions in recent games.

The Washington Commanders will look to exploit this excellent passing attack when they face a Detroit Lions defense that allowed the fifth most passing yards in the entire NFL throughout the regular season, 4,404. If they're able to exploit this weakness in the Lions' defense, there's a chance they come away with a win.

#2 - Rush Defense Steps Up

NFL: Why Commanders will pull an upset win over Lions in divisional round (Image Source: Imagn)

The Lions have arguably the best running back duo in the NFL, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Montgomery has missed time through injury but is expected to be back for this game.

Unfortunately for the Commanders, their rush defense has been one of the worst units in the league this term, allowing the third-most rushing yards during the regular season. If they want to stand a chance of winning this playoff bout, they'll have to find a way to bottle up Gibbs and Montgomery all night.

#3 - Win the Shootout

NFL: Why Commanders will pull an upset win over Lions in divisional round (Image Source: Imagn)

There's a chance this game ends up being a shootout with both offenses excelling in 2024, whilst their defenses leave something to be desired.

One way the Commanders can win this playoff match is if they score last, as that's what it may come down to. Daniels has proven he can keep up with the best of them, with wins over the Philadelphia Eagles, Cincinnati Bengals, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers already on his resume.

Daniels and the Commanders will need to be at their offensive best against the Lions to come away with a victory.