Commanders fall 37-20 to Cowboys in season opener
Washington lost to Dallas 37-20, dropping to 0-2, with quarterback Jayden Daniels and receiver Stefon Diggs highlighted as positives while several defensive players and the coaching staff drew criticism.
Washington lost to the Dallas Cowboys 37-20 on the road, extending the Commanders' record to 0-2 this season. The team struggled after a fumble in Dallas territory and a costly non-call on a potential touchdown pass to Dyami Brown. Quarterback Jayden Daniels threw for 69 yards on seven scrambles in the first half before a goal-line error, while backup Marcus Mariota completed 11 of 16 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown in the second half. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs contributed five catches for 47 yards and two touchdowns. Defensive back Amik Robertson recorded two passes defended and limited his targets to four receptions for 37 yards.
Criticism was directed at several players, including cornerback Mike StandRealStill, who allowed five receptions on six targets, and free safety Jeremy Reaves, who was described as struggling in coverage. Linebacker Leo Chenal, despite leading the team with 12 combined tackles, was noted for poor coverage performance. Head coach Dan Quinn faced heightened scrutiny following the defeat. The officiating crew also received negative remarks for a missed call on a Dyami Brown touchdown.
Additional notes from the game include rookie running back Rachaad White's six receptions for 40 yards, defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw's first sack with the team, and edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson's sack that forced a Dallas field-goal attempt. The Commanders' offensive line continued to draw concern, with injuries to key players such as Sam Cosmi potentially impacting future games. Washington will host the Seattle Seahawks next Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.