The Washington Commanders faced the Detroit Lions this past weekend with high hopes, but things took a bizarre turn during their playoff game, largely thanks to backup quarterback Marcus Mariota. Known for their bold plays, the Commanders tried to execute what they hoped would be a clever trick play. Unfortunately for Mariota, and the team, the effort ended up falling flat, drawing ridicule from fans and analysts alike.
With the game hanging in the balance at 7-3 and the Commanders facing a fourth down at the Lions’ 28-yard line, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury opted for what he thought was mesmerizing trickery. Instead of letting rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels handle the fourth down directly, Mariota lined up wide before going through motion to take the snap. He then attempted to execute a fake quarterback sneak, hoping to pitch the ball back to Daniels for what could have been the game-changing play.
Yet, the Lions were quick to close the door on the maneuver. Detroit’s defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad tackled Mariota before he could flip the ball, resulting in the turnover on downs. Social media erupted immediately, with many mocking Mariota’s attempt. "I'm not trusting my playoff life to Marcus Mariota," quipped Warren Sharp, joining fans who suggested the team should have never diverted plays away from Daniels.
Despite the gamble not paying off, it’s worth noting Mariota's track record this season with the Commanders. He might not have the starting reins, but his contributions should not be entirely dismissed. He has stepped onto the field during three games, completing 34 of 44 passes for 364 yards. He showcased his efficiency the most dramatically during the Week 18 game against the Dallas Cowboys, where he threw two touchdowns, leading to the Commanders’ 23-19 victory. After throwing for 161 yards with a remarkable 83.3% completion rate, his performance was indicative of his capabilities, even as he played second fiddle to Daniels.
Before the disastrous attempted pitch against Detroit, Mariota also had notable outings earlier this season, like his 18-of-23 performance against the Carolina Panthers on October 20, which netted him 205 yards and two touchdowns. His positive moments have kept him relevant, but this playoff appearance cast him markedly back. The stark difference between his impactful plays and the recent squander has many discussing his future with the organization.
One fan lamented the unfortunate series of events by stating, "Never take the ball out of Daniels' hands," highlighting the frustration felt by many over Mariota's decision to initiate the questionable play. It seemed clear by this point: the Commanders needed something solid on the fourth down, and the execution fell short. Opting for such trickery, when the stakes were high, brought about second-guessing among the Commanders' support base.
Looking back, the Commanders had led to this moment after showing promising offensive potential, aided especially by their exceptional fourth down conversion capabilities this season. With 20 successful conversions out of 23 attempts, the Commanders had the best fourth-down conversion rate since 2000, making it even more perplexing why Kingsbury opted for this risky play. Instead of capitalizing on their strengths, they left the door open for the Lions to seize momentum—an opportunity they took without hesitation.
Following the Commanders' misplay, the Lions capitalized instantly, scoring on their next drive and pushing the scoreboard to 14-10 with less than eight minutes left to play. It was this quick turn-around of events born out of their failure to convert the pivotal fourth down and Mariota’s mishap on the field.
It's fair to say Mariota is at a crossroads, especially being the veteran backup behind the dynamic Daniels. During this playoff run, he will need to find ways to regain both confidence and trust—not only among fans but from the coaching staff as well. His previous success as the second overall draft pick and Heisman Trophy winner provides flashes of potential, whereas his playoff performance raises concerns.
After this encounter with the Lions, fans are left speculating about what lies next for Mariota and the Commanders. With Daniels making solid pushes and Mariota now seen as less of the star quarterback he used to be, the next games could very well define their playoff hopes. Will Mariota learn and adapt to reclaim his status as the main option? Only time will tell as he continues to adapt to his role within the team, facing mounting pressure with every game.
On the road to the playoffs, every play counts—and Mariota's latest attempt will be remembered for quite some time. The big question remains whether the team will adapt their strategies or continue seeking out risky trick plays when the game is on the line.