In a gritty battle between NFC East rivals, the Commanders Week 2 versus Giants tilt delivered late-game drama, a record-setting kicking performance, and the first NFL win for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The Washington Commanders edged out the New York Giants 21–18 on Sunday, thanks to seven field goals by new kicker Austin Seibert — a franchise record.
Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick, showed poise under pressure, leading a 65-yard game-winning drive to set up Seibert’s final kick as time expired.
“It wasn’t the prettiest game, but a win is a win,” Daniels said. “I feel blessed.”
Jayden Daniels Leads the Way in Commanders Week 2 Victory
Daniels completed 23 of 29 passes for 226 yards and added 44 rushing yards in his second career start. He stayed calm after briefly exiting with the wind knocked out of him and returned to lead the offense to crucial points, even when red zone opportunities repeatedly fell short.
Despite Washington going 0-for-6 in the red zone, Daniels orchestrated enough drives to put points on the board. His composure in the final minutes proved the difference in Commanders Week 2 versus Giants.
Austin Seibert Sets Franchise Record With Seven Field Goals
In just his first game with the Commanders, kicker Austin Seibert went 7-for-7, accounting for 21 points and setting a new franchise record. Seibert was signed earlier in the week after Cade York’s struggles in Week 1.
“I guess that’s a great way to welcome myself to the team,” Seibert said. “Just go out there and do what I do.”
He nailed field goals from 27, 45, 26, 27, 29, and 30 yards, including the game-winner as time expired.
Giants Struggle Without Graham Gano in Week 2 Loss
The Giants lost veteran kicker Graham Gano on the opening kickoff to a hamstring injury. With no backup, punter Jamie Gillan missed an early extra point, forcing New York to attempt multiple fourth-down conversions instead of field goals.
Quarterback Daniel Jones went 16-of-28 for 178 yards and two touchdowns, but top receiver Malik Nabers couldn’t come up with a crucial fourth-down catch late in the game. Despite his 10 catches for 127 yards and his first NFL touchdown, Nabers took the blame for the loss.
“That last play came down to me,” Nabers said. “I’m hurt that I let those veterans down.”
Brian Robinson Jr. Breaks Out in Commanders’ Ground Game
Running back Brian Robinson Jr. had a career-high 133 rushing yards on 17 carries, including runs of 32 and 40 yards — the two longest of his NFL career.
“Great start for me so I can gain the momentum that I need,” Robinson said. “I expect to keep building off of that.”
Zach Ertz Reaches Major Milestone
Tight end Zach Ertz became the 12th tight end in NFL history to surpass 7,500 receiving yards. He caught four passes for 62 yards and continues to be one of Daniels’ top targets in key moments.
What’s Next After Commanders Week 2 Versus Giants
- Commanders (1-1): Travel to face the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday, Sept. 23.
- Giants (0-2): Head to Cleveland to take on the Browns in Week 3.