Commanders clinch playoffs with OT win against Falcons, first NFL postseason since 2020

Commanders’ playoff berth, Ertz’s clutch TD and big night.

The Washington Commanders are back in the playoffs after a dramatic 30-24 overtime victory against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night. This marks their first postseason appearance since 2020.

Jayden Daniels leads Commanders with clutch performance

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels proved pivotal in Washington’s win. He connected with Zach Ertz for the game-winning touchdown in overtime, capping off a stellar performance. Daniels finished the game with 227 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and a season-high 127 rushing yards, including 42 in overtime.

“You want to be in these moments,” said veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner. “Him getting hit and making big plays, his confidence, his demeanor never changes. You know that he knows he’s going to make a play, and everybody on the sideline and on the field believes he’s going to make a play.”

I wanted Jayden Daniels to break my rookie rushing record because I’m not about rooting against the next generation. He EARNED IT. He is the FUTURE. Some of these old heads need to stop drinking all that haterade and lift up these young guys instead of tearing them down. pic.twitter.com/SesP9KTdpM
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) December 30, 2024

The No. 2 overall draft pick overcame a 10-point halftime deficit and an earlier interception to deliver yet another comeback victory. Daniels’ poise under pressure has been a recurring theme this season, solidifying his place as a franchise cornerstone.

Big night and Huge incentives for Zach Ertz as Commanders beat Falcons

Veteran tight end Zach Ertz played a crucial role in Washington’s playoff-clinching victory. He hauled in two touchdowns, including the decisive 2-yard catch in overtime. Ertz’s performance also triggered $750,000 in contract incentives and pushed him into 9th place all-time for tight-end receiving yards.

Zach Ertz’s game-winning touchdown catch that clinched a wild-card spot for the Commanders also was his sixth TD catch of the season, triggering a $250,000 bonus.

Ertz made $250K for that catch, another $250K for going over 600 receiving yards this season, and another $250K for… pic.twitter.com/6rT2n4oGGZ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 30, 2024

“Zach Ertz’s game-winning touchdown catch that clinched a wild-card spot for the Commanders also was his sixth TD catch of the season, triggering a $250,000 bonus,” Adam Schefter reported on X. “Talk about a great night: Ertz caught the game-winning TD pass, made $750K in incentives, passed Ozzie Newsome…and it all happened on his mother Lisa Ertz’s birthday.”

Ertz ended the night with six catches for 72 yards, cementing his status as a reliable target for Daniels.

Falcons’ playoff hopes take a hit

The Atlanta Falcons had control early, leading 17-7 at halftime. Rookie quarterback Michael Penix, the No. 8 overall pick, kept Atlanta competitive. He threw for 223 yards and a touchdown, with a late scoring pass to Kyle Pitts forcing overtime. However, a missed 56-yard field goal by Riley Patterson at the end of regulation cost the Falcons a chance to seal the win.

Falcons coach Raheem Morris remained focused on the task ahead: “Control what your controllables are. Go out there and win our football game. That’s all we can do.”

Running back Bijan Robinson started strong with 82 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the first half but was held to just 8 yards in the second.

What’s next for Washington and Atlanta?

The Commanders, now 11-5, aim to improve their playoff seeding in their regular-season finale against Dallas. A win could move them to the sixth seed, setting up a wild-card matchup against Tampa Bay or the Rams. If they remain the seventh seed, they’ll face division rival Philadelphia unless Green Bay loses to Chicago.

ZACH ERTZ GOT PAID IN PRIMETIME 💰

Secured the bag and scored the game-winner 😤 pic.twitter.com/LbeS4aizeD
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 30, 2024

The Falcons (8-8) need a win against Carolina and a Buccaneers loss to the Saints to keep their playoff hopes alive. Despite the loss, Penix showed flashes of potential, giving Atlanta optimism for the future.

Washington’s victory not only secures a postseason berth but also showcases their growth under Daniels. With Ertz delivering in clutch moments and a balanced roster, the Commanders look ready to make noise in the playoffs.

Image: X, formerly Twitter (Adam Schefter)

Falcons

Washington Commanders

Zach Ertz

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
Favorite part? The chaos. One day it’s a blockbuster trade, the next it’s a goat running onto the field. Never boring.
Message to readers: If you want deep analysis, there are people for that. If you want sharp, no-BS writing that actually makes sense, stick around.