Commanders Upset Lions 45-31 for NFC Championship Spot

Washington Commanders defeat the Detroit Lions 45-31 in a surprising playoff upset led by rookie Jayden Daniels.

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This story was covered by 9 sources. This shows the distribution of these sources: left-leaning (blue), center (gray), and right-leaning (red).

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Summary

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In a stunning playoff upset, the Washington Commanders beat the Detroit Lions 45-31, with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels throwing for two touchdowns and leading the game in passing yards. Despite a record-breaking season of 15 wins, the Lions struggled defensively and committed five turnovers, which proved costly. Rookie Mike Sainristil's two interceptions and Quan Martin's pick six exemplified Washington's defensive strength. Commanders' victory secures their first NFC Championship game appearance since winning the Super Bowl 33 years ago.

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Highlights (6)

Excerpts from the underlying articles that best reflect each outlet's unique perspective on this story.

The Lions' historic opportunity for a Super Bowl appearance slipped away due to a combination of self-inflicted wounds and injurious outcomes, leaving the franchise once again grappling with unfulfilled potential.
Turnovers and depleted defense contribute to top-seeded Lions' quick playoff exit
Associated Press
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
Despite a season that showcased the Lions' unprecedented success, the painful reality after their playoff exit suggests that this exhilarating chapter may be followed by a sobering regression.
Shocking playoff exit could mark beginning of end for Lions' revival, Super Bowl quest
USA TODAY
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
The Detroit Lions' promising season ended in heartbreak, as they squandered their historic achievements with a catastrophic performance, turning over the ball five times and failing to live up to expectations.
Lions waste best season in franchise history after falling apart to underdog Commanders in home playoff game
FOX News
Mostly Reliable
The underlying sources generally maintain reliability but have, at times, included opinion pieces, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies. While typically factual, there may be occasional editorialization or subjective interpretation.
·Leans Right
The thrilling back-and-forth battle in the Divisional Round not only showcased the explosive playmaking of both teams but also underscored the critical mistakes that ultimately doomed the Lions, leading to a stunning upset by the Commanders.
The Lions and Commanders put on a slugfest for the ages. Here are the wildest highlights
NBC News
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Center
The Commanders' stunning victory not only signified a remarkable achievement under pressure but also highlighted the exceptional talent of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who delivered a performance that defied all expectations.
Washington shock top-seeded Detroit to reach first NFC title game in 33 years
The Guardian
Reliable
The underlying sources consistently report facts with minimal bias. They demonstrate high-quality journalism and accuracy across multiple articles.
·Leans Left
The Commanders' chances of advancing in the playoffs are severely compromised by the potential absence of Zach Ertz, who, despite not being a standout performer, has been crucial in key moments of the game.
Commanders' Zach Ertz Questionable to Return With Apparent Concussion
Newsweek
Mostly Reliable
The underlying sources generally maintain reliability but have, at times, included opinion pieces, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies. While typically factual, there may be occasional editorialization or subjective interpretation.
·Center