In a thrilling Monday night showdown, Commanders Week 3 versus Bengals became a breakout moment for rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The No. 2 overall pick delivered a near-perfect performance, throwing two touchdowns and running for another as the Washington Commanders stunned Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals, 38–33.
Daniels completed 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards — a staggering 91.3% completion rate — setting an NFL rookie record in the process. The Commanders (2-1) scored on every possession except for end-of-half kneel-downs and now appear to boast one of the most efficient offenses in the league.
“He’s a real cool customer,” said Washington head coach Dan Quinn. “He’s got a real poise about him.”
Jayden Daniels Delivers
Against an aggressive Bengals defense, Daniels stood tall in the pocket and made one of the night’s biggest plays. Late in the fourth quarter, he launched a 27-yard touchdown pass to Terry McLaurin while being hit by safety Geno Stone. McLaurin secured the ball in the end zone, sealing the win for Washington.
“What’s done in the dark will always come to light,” Daniels said. “I prepare for these moments week in and week out.”
Daniels also threw a 1-yard touchdown to offensive lineman Trent Scott and scored on the ground in the first half. He became just the second Commanders rookie quarterback in franchise history to account for three touchdowns in a prime-time game.
Commanders’ Offense Dominates, Bengals Struggle to Keep Up
Commanders Week 3 versus Bengals marked the second straight week Washington’s offense scored on every meaningful drive. Rushing touchdowns from Brian Robinson Jr., Austin Ekeler, and Daniels gave the team a 24-13 halftime lead.
Meanwhile, Joe Burrow threw for 324 yards and three touchdowns but couldn’t keep pace. Cincinnati (0-3) is now off to its worst start since 2019. Ja’Marr Chase had 118 receiving yards and two touchdowns, but the Bengals fell just short.
Despite their offensive output, the Bengals failed to reach the end zone on three first-half drives, settling for two field goals and a miss by Evan McPherson.
McLaurin, Robinson, and Ekeler Fuel Commanders’ Offensive Balance
Terry McLaurin had four catches for 100 yards and the game-sealing touchdown. Running back Brian Robinson Jr. added a rushing score and continued to build on his strong season. Austin Ekeler also contributed a touchdown before leaving the game in the second half due to a concussion.
“We’re finding our identity,” McLaurin said. “Jayden is leading us with confidence, and we’re responding.”
Historic Efficiency in Commanders Week 3 Versus Bengals
This was the first NFL game in the Super Bowl era in which neither team punted nor committed a turnover. The Commanders’ ability to finish drives and manage the clock proved decisive. A fourth-quarter drive led by Daniels chewed up 7.5 minutes and ended with the McLaurin touchdown that pushed the lead to 38–26.
The Bengals responded with a touchdown by Zack Moss but failed to recover the onside kick, sealing the game.
What’s Next After Commanders Week 3 Versus Bengals
- Commanders (2-1): Travel to face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday.
- Bengals (0-3): Visit the Carolina Panthers in Week 4.