Daniels throws 32-yard winner with under a minute left to beat Giants 24-21
The Commanders overcame two first-career interceptions and a late deficit to secure a must-win victory over New York.
By Julian Schulz ·
Jayden Daniels connected with Stefon Diggs for a 32-yard touchdown pass with 57 seconds remaining, giving the Washington Commanders a 24-21 victory over the New York Giants on Thursday night.
The decisive play came after Daniels threw his first two interceptions of the season during the final two drives. On his 208th attempt of the season, Jevon Holland picked off Daniels, and on the 211th, Ar'Darius Washington intercepted him. Those turnovers allowed J.J. McCarthy to find Isaiah Likely for a 66-yard reception that gave New York the lead midway through the fourth quarter.
Washington’s drive began on the Giants’ 28-yard line after a pass interference call moved the offense closer. Diggs broke free down the sideline and fell backward into the end zone to celebrate. This reception marked his 80th career touchdown, making him the 30th player in league history to reach that milestone.
The win improved the Commanders’ record to 3-5-1 and secured the tiebreaker over the Giants, who lead the NFC East at 5-3-1. The teams tied their matchup last month. Despite the win, Daniels finished with 23 of 33 passes for 249 yards and two touchdowns, including strikes to Ben Sinnott and Antonio Williams. He also carried the ball 10 times for 28 yards.
McCarthy threw for a career-high 293 yards in his first home start since trading from Minnesota in late September. However, Rasul Douglas intercepted him in the final minute, ending the Giants’ chance to answer the score. New York’s inability to sustain drives on the ground forced multiple punts, giving Washington additional possessions.
Rookie kickers had mixed results in the closing minutes. Washington’s Drew Stevens converted a 46-yard field goal. Conversely, New York’s Dominic Zvada missed a 33-yard attempt wide left. Zvada is now 8 of 14 from the field after making nine consecutive kicks at the start of his career.
Both teams reported back injuries during the game. Commanders tight end Chig Onkonkwo left in the second quarter but returned after halftime. Giants safety Jason Pinnock exited early in the third quarter. The Commanders will host the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday, Nov. 23, while the Giants face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday, Nov. 22.
