Washington quarterback Jaden Daniels on Sunday night credited God for his calm as he led the Commanders to their first playoff victory in 20 years. Daniels led the Commanders on a 10-play, 51-yard drive in the final minutes of the game, capped by Zane Gonzalez's 37-yard field goal as time expired, giving Washington a 23-20 win over Tampa Bay in the opener. NFL playoffs.
He completed 24 of 35 passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Commanders to their first playoff victory since 2005.
In a postgame interview on NBC, when asked why he's so calm, Daniels mentioned his faith.
“Trust in the Lord God,” Daniels said. “There's nothing to worry about. I'm putting all my worries on God and He'll take care of the rest.”
The win marked a return to success for the franchise, which dominated the NFL in the 1980s and 1990s under Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs, who led Washington to three Super Bowl championships. However, the Commanders have struggled since winning the Super Bowl in 1992, winning only four playoff games and falling short of making the postseason in most years.
“I'm happy for the fan base, for the series, and for everything we've overcome to get to this point,” Daniels told media members at a press conference. “I'm just grateful and happy for everyone.”
“Trust in the Lord.” 🙏
Commanders QB Jayden Daniels deflected the glory after the game on NBC after contributing to his team's playoff victory over Tampa.
🎥 @SNFonNBC pic.twitter.com/D8xZBwprn0
— Sports Spectrum (@Sports_Spectrum) January 13, 2025
Still in his first season, Daniels is the frontrunner for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
He often talks about his faith during interviews.
After completing a Hail Mary pass to beat Chicago in October, Daniels was asked to explain his final play. he told a national CBS television audience. “There's nothing but God. Man, there's nothing but God. If it wasn't for God, I never thought I'd be playing this week. But to God be the glory, everyone.”
Before being drafted by LSU, Daniels won the Heisman Trophy, which is given to the best player in college football. Asked what advice he would give young people during ESPN's Heisman Trophy broadcast, Daniels said, “Always believe in yourself. No matter the doubters, no matter what people say about you, just keep going. Believe in yourself. Lean on your beliefs.” Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and just keep working. ” He then called God “my Rock and my Savior.”
Won your first playoff game of your career? Take note 😂@JayD__5 | @commander pic.twitter.com/7cy4oJlIPX
— NFL (@NFL) January 13, 2025
Washington plays again at Detroit on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET.
Photo credit: ©X/sports spectrum/Instagram/Zaki Jaden
michael faust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His articles have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, Christian Post, Leaf Chronicle, Toronto Star, and Knoxville News Sentinel.
Listen to Michael's podcast! he is the host of crosswalk talka podcast where he speaks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christians are making their faith a priority in Hollywood, and discover the best Christian movies, books, TV and other entertainment. can be found crosswalk talk above LifeAudio.comor subscribe at apple or spotify So never miss an interview that is sure to encourage your faith.
First publication date is January 13, 2025.
