The Washington Commanders began a new era on Sunday with a 28-22 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
It wasn’t always easy as the offense struggled throughout the third quarter and quarterback Carson Wentz had two second-half interceptions. The Jaguars converted both into points and took a 22-14 lead in the fourth quarter.
Uh oh.
Fortunately for the Commanders, Wentz wouldn’t be denied on this day, finding Terry McLaurin for a 49-yard touchdown to trim the lead to 22-20. Washington attempted a two-point conversion but missed.
On the next series, the Jaguars were moving the ball down the field, but defensive tackle Daron Payne sacked Trevor Lawrence on third down to force a punt.
Wentz had another chance to be the hero.
The Commanders moved the ball down the field, with running back Antonio Gibson making several key rules. Tight end Logan Thomas made a critical third-down grab to keep the drive alive.
Finally, with the Commanders facing a 3rd & 8 from the Jacksonville 24-yard line, Wentz went for it all instead of settling for a field goal. The veteran dropped back and found rookie wide receiver Jahan Dotson for a 24-yard touchdown and the lead. Washington went for the two-point conversion and suddenly held a 28-22 lead.
It would be up to the defense to preserve the win. The Jaguars were moving the ball when defensive end Montez Sweat hit Lawrence hard, who tossed an ill-advised pass down the field only for Washington safety Darrick Forrest to intercept it and give the Commanders a critical win to open the season.
Wentz completed 27 of 41 attempts for 313 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions in his debut. Gibson rushed for 58 yards while also catching seven passes for 72 yards.
Next up for Washington is a road game against the Detroit Lions.