The Washington Commanders head into the playoffs with a rookie sensation at quarterback and an invaluable backup who embodies leadership and resilience.

Filling in for Jayden Daniels in the second half, the backup QB led Washington to a 23-19 comeback win over the Dallas Cowboys to close a dramatic regular season.

Marcus Mariota’s clutch play in the game’s final seconds earned the Commanders a six playoff seed highlighting the power of unseen preparation.