Former Lions WR said Detroit would have beat Commanders if healthy
No one expected the Washington Commanders to compete for a playoff spot in the 2024 season. It was the first season of a "recalibration," as head coach Dan Quinn called it. There was a new general manager, a new coaching staff, a rookie quarterback and over 50% of the roster turned over.
Washington shocked everyone, going 12-5 and advancing to the NFC championship game one year after finishing 4-13. Quarterback Jayden Daniels was phenomenal as a rookie, looking like a 10-year veteran and one of the best players in the NFL, leading his team to an unforgettable season.
One of the more shocking moments came in the NFC Divisional Round, when the Commanders shocked the top-seeded Lions on the road in front of a sold-out Detroit crowd. It wasn't a nailbiter either, as Washington won 45-31.
One member of last year's Detroit team said that Washington would not have won that game if the Lions had been healthy.
Here's veteran wide receiver Allen Robinson talking to the Woodward Sports Network about that game and last season.
Robinson appeared in 12 games last season, catching three passes for 30 yards. He is currently a free agent.
On one hand, Robinson is not wrong. That result could have been different if players like Detroit defensive end Aidan Hutchinson were healthy. On the other hand, it's the NFL. No teams are fully healthy in January. Ultimately, the Lions had no answer for Daniels, and Washington's defense forced four Jared Goff turnovers in the upset win.
Last season was definitely disappointing for the Lions. They had arguably the NFL's top roster, a star-studded coaching staff, home-field advantage and didn't even make it to the NFC championship game.
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