The Washington Commanders opened their 2025 season with authority. They defeated the New York Giants 21-6 at Northwest Stadium on Sunday. This Commanders Giants Week 1 recap showcased a defensive gem as well as emerging offensive weapons. Washington held New York to just three points on two separate trips inside the 5-yard line.
“You heard me talk about identity, the tackling,” said Commanders head coach Dan Quinn. “We didn’t create the takeaways today, but man, seeing some plays down inside the 10-yard line, in the red zone, the guys have worked hard at that.”
The Giants managed only 231 total yards of offense. Meanwhile, their running game struggled mightily with just 74 yards on 23 attempts. Quarterback Russell Wilson accounted for 44 of those rushing yards.
Ultimately, the Commanders got the victory and their first three game win streak versus the Giants in 25 years.
Goal Line Stands Define the Game
Two crucial goal-line stands highlighted Washington’s defensive dominance. In the first stand, the Giants reached the Washington 2-yard line but were stuffed. However, a fourth-down stop was negated by a defensive penalty and the defense had to reset.
With New York now first-and-goal from the 1-yard line, scoring seemed inevitable. But the offense sputtered. An incomplete pass to an eligible lineman was followed by a one yard loss on a run. On third, another incomplete pass forced a field goal attempt.
The second stand was even more decisive. Down 21-6 late in the fourth quarter, the Giants had first-and-goal from the 3-yard line. Wilson threw four straight incomplete passes. Threat over.
“Obviously, six points it’s tough to win a game,” Giants coach Brian Daboll said. “We left 11 points out there in the red zone.”
Deebo Samuel Makes Immediate Impact
Deebo Samuel was traded from the San Francisco 49ers to the Washington Commanders on March 1, 2025, for a 2025 fifth-round draft pick. The Commanders acquired Samuel to provide a dynamic play-maker for second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels and to bolster their receiving corps. Early results suggest that it was a bold stroke.
The offseason acquisition from San Francisco delivered in his Commanders debut. Samuel scored the game-sealing touchdown with 7:09 remaining. His 19-yard rushing score capped a crucial drive that saw Jayden Daniels bounce off a tackle for 12-yards and then connected with Samuel for 19 yards to reach field goal range. Moments later, Samuel took a hand off and swept left. He shed a tackler and reached the end zone.
The crowd immediately began chanting “Deebo! Deebo!” after the score.
Samuel finished with seven catches for 77 yards – the most receptions by a receiver in a Washington debut since DeSean Jackson.
Jayden Daniels Steady
The second-year quarterback threw for 233 yards and one touchdown – a 7-yard touchdown pass to Zach Ertz. Daniels demonstrated mobility and pocket presence throughout the contest.
The Giants’ pass rush created some early pressure with three first-half sacks against Washington’s offensive line. Additionally, pressure on Daniels also forced an intentional grounding penalty at the very end of the first half. This penalty caused time to expire when Washington appeared assured of at least a field goal.
Rookie Running Back Emerges
Seventh-round pick Jacory “Bill” Croskey-Merritt made the most of his opening day opportunity. The rookie carried the ball 10 times for 82 yards and one touchdown. His 6-yard scoring run in the second quarter extended Washington’s lead to 14-3.
“This whole day was amazing, just being able to be on the field with my teammates,” Croskey-Merritt said. “I waited a long time for this. I just want to give these guys thanks for just pushing me and believing in me.”
The Commanders left Chris Rodriguez Jr. inactive for this game. That came as a bit of a surprise and signaled that Croskey-Merritt had moved ahead of him on the depth chart.
Giants Continue Season Opener Struggles
This loss extended a troubling trend for New York. The Giants have now lost their last three season openers by a combined score of 89-12. Surprisingly, this 21-6 defeat was actually their closest margin in that span.
The Giants lost 28-6 to Minnesota last season. They suffered a devastating 40-0 loss to Dallas in 2023. This pattern raises questions about New York’s preparation and early-season execution.
Russell Wilson completed just 17 of 37 passes for 168 yards. The veteran quarterback didn’t throw any touchdown passes and struggled in crucial red zone situations.
Conservative Play Calling?
The Commanders took a notably conservative approach on fourth down. After converting an incredible 20 of 23 fourth-down attempts last season, Washington didn’t attempt a single fourth-down conversion Sunday.
This strategy proved effective against New York’s struggling offense. Washington didn’t make any costly turnovers and maintained field position advantages throughout the game.
Looking Ahead
Washington won’t have any time to rest on their laurels with a quick turnaround this week. Washington heads to Green Bay for Thursday Night Football.
The short week will test the teams’ depth and preparation. Washington’s defensive performance provides momentum heading into Lambeau Field. The red zone stands demonstrated improved discipline and execution.
Samuel’s debut provided an immediate offensive boost.
It was a good start. Washington’s balanced approach created positive momentum early for 2025.
Hail.
Proud of my Commanders, all the way from SC. Got to make it home to D.C. for a game.
Congrats! Great one to get to!!