32-yard strike seals 24-21 Commanders comeback over Giants

Jayden Daniels connected with Stefon Diggs for a 32-yard touchdown pass with 57 seconds remaining, giving the Washington Commanders a 24-21 victory over the New York Giants on Thursday night.

The late score capped a dramatic fourth quarter in which the Commanders overcame earlier defensive lapses. Daniels had thrown two interceptions earlier in the game, allowing New York to take the lead. The win moves Washington to a 3-5-1 record, while New York improves to 5-3-1.

The Commanders now hold the tiebreaker over the Giants after the two teams played to a draw last month. They remain two games behind the division leader in the NFC East.

Daniels finished the night 23 of 33 for 249 passing yards. He also ran for 28 yards on 10 carries. His touchdown passes included the final score and earlier strikes to tight end Ben Sinnott and wide receiver Antonio Williams.

Sinnott noted the team’s resilience. “We felt it,” he said. “Being able to get another opportunity with the ball in our hands to go win it, it definitely took me back to that season.”

The Giants built their lead midway through the fourth quarter. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy threw a 66-yard touchdown to Isaiah Likely. Running back Cam Skattebo also scored on two rushing touchdowns.

New York’s offensive drive stalled on the ground. A quarterback sneak by Winston was initially ruled a first down, but head coach Dan Quinn challenged the call. The reversal kept the Giants out of scoring position and preserved Washington’s lead.

Defensive lineman Deatrich Wise defended the review, stating simply, “Because I stopped him.” The Giants attempted to manipulate the clock with a hard count from the sideline, but Washington continued to return the ball via punts.

The decisive play came after a pass interference call allowed Washington to march down the field. Diggs caught the ball and fell backward into the end zone. The reception marked Diggs’ 80th career touchdown, making him the 30th player in NFL history to reach that milestone.

McCarthy threw for a career-high 293 yards in his first home start since trading from Minnesota in late September. He was intercepted by Rasul Douglas in the final minute. “It’s easy to second-guess the final two passes,” McCarthy said. “The pressure was coming.”

Kicking duties split the difference. Washington rookie kicker Drew Stevens converted a 46-yard field goal. New York’s Dominic Zvada missed a 33-yard attempt wide left. Zvada is now 8 of 14 in his NFL career.

Washington head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the missed chances but defended his roster. “There is still a lot of football to play,” Harbaugh said. “We played well, just not well enough.” He also vouched for Zvada, saying, “I believe in him. He’s going to make kicks for us.”