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Missed opportunities: The challenge that could have changed the game
The NFC championship game on Sunday was a rollercoaster of emotions for fans and players alike, particularly for the Washington Commanders. With a trip to Super Bowl 2025 on the line, the stakes couldn’t have been higher.
However, a pivotal moment arose when head coach Dan Quinn faced a critical decision that could have altered the course of the game. The question on everyone’s mind: should he have challenged a questionable catch by Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith?
The controversial catch
In the first quarter, with the Commanders trailing 7-3, Smith made a 20-yard reception along the sideline that seemed to put the Eagles in a commanding position. However, upon closer inspection, it appeared that Smith may not have had both feet inbounds.
His left foot was clearly down, but the right foot was dangerously close to the sideline, raising questions about whether it was inbounds or out. The Commanders had a window of opportunity to challenge the play, yet Quinn opted not to throw the red flag.
Missed chances and rushing plays
As the Eagles rushed to the line and snapped the ball before the Commanders could react, the chance to challenge the catch evaporated. This moment encapsulated the Commanders’ struggles throughout the game. Following the controversial play, the Eagles’ star running back, Saquon Barkley, showcased his skills with a 60-yard touchdown on Philly’s second offensive play, further widening the gap.
Washington’s subsequent fumble only compounded their woes, allowing Barkley to score again, this time on a 4-yard run.
Quinn’s ingenuity amidst adversity
Despite the rocky start, Quinn demonstrated some creativity with a fake punt pass that kept a late first-quarter drive alive.
This play ultimately led to a 46-yard field goal, narrowing the deficit to 14-6. However, the Eagles continued to dominate, racking up 27 points in the first half and heading into halftime with a 27-15 lead. As Quinn navigates his first year as head coach, the pressure mounts. A win would not only secure a Super Bowl appearance for Washington but also mark him as the eighth coach to lead two different teams to the big game.
Quinn’s previous experience with the Atlanta Falcons, where he infamously lost to the Patriots after leading 28-3 in Super Bowl LI, adds another layer of complexity to his current situation. The Commanders, aiming for their first Super Bowl appearance in 33 years, must learn from these missed opportunities if they hope to succeed in the future.
