Commanders Showcase Playoff-Ready Form in Week 16 Win

In a one-sided showdown in Week 16 of the 2026 regular season, the Washington Commanders dominated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 56–17, asserting themselves as a legitimate playoff contender. The win moves Washington to 10–5–0, while Tampa Bay drops to 2–13–0. From the first snap, the Commanders controlled the game with precision passing, smart rushing, and a defense that forced turnovers at crucial moments.

Commanders Offense Sparks Early

Quarterback J. Daniels was flawless, completing 10 of 11 passes for 271 yards and 4 touchdowns with a rating of 158.3. Receivers T. McLaurin, J. Croskey-Merritt, and J. Lane all found the end zone, combining for over 230 yards receiving and multiple explosive plays.

The running game added balance. Z. White carried 17 times for 77 yards and 1 touchdown, keeping Tampa Bay defenders honest and opening lanes for play-action passes.

Tampa Bay’s passing attack struggled. QB B. Mayfield went 12/17 for 106 yards, 1 TD, and 2 INTs, and the Bucs couldn’t convert on critical third downs. While B. Irving rushed for 151 yards and 1 TD, it wasn’t enough to keep pace with Washington’s efficient offense.

Defense Sets the Tone

Washington’s defense was opportunistic and physical. The Commanders forced 4 takeaways, including interceptions by M. Sainristil and J. Peppers, and a fumble recovery by K. Medrano. Linebackers and defensive backs consistently applied pressure, limiting Tampa Bay’s big-play potential and shutting down third-down conversions.

Even when Tampa Bay leaned on the run in the second half (228 yards), Washington’s defense held strong in the red zone, preventing the Buccaneers from mounting a comeback.

Key Stats

• Total Yards: Washington 394 | Tampa Bay 330
• Passing Yards: Washington 269 | Tampa Bay 102
• Rushing Yards: Washington 125 | Tampa Bay 228
• 3rd Down Conversion: Washington 4/6 (66.7%) | Tampa Bay 0/4 (0.0%)
• Takeaways: Washington 4 | Tampa Bay 0
• Red Zone: Washington 3 TDs / 0 FGs | Tampa Bay 2 TDs / 1 FG

Standout Players

Washington Commanders

• J. Daniels: 10/11, 271 yards, 4 TD, 0 INT
• Z. White: 77 rushing yards, 1 TD
• T. McLaurin: 83 receiving yards, 1 TD
• Defense: K. Medrano, M. Sainristil, J. Peppers forced turnovers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

• B. Irving: 151 rushing yards, 1 TD
• R. White: 77 rushing yards
• B. Mayfield: 106 passing yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs

Coach Que Post-Game Comments

Q: “Coach, what stood out in today’s game?”

A: “Our guys executed every phase. J. Daniels was perfect, receivers made every play, and the defense forced turnovers when it mattered. That’s how you play complete football.”

Q: “Tampa Bay ran for 228 yards. Were you worried?”

A: “We expected it. They tried to control the game on the ground, but our defensive adjustments and turnovers kept them from scoring consistently.”

Q: “How does this performance impact confidence for the playoffs?”

A: “It’s huge. When the offense and defense click at the same time, it sets the tone. We’re ready for the next challenge.”

Final Takeaways

Washington’s 56–17 win highlighted offensive efficiency, opportunistic defense, and playoff-level discipline. The Commanders showed they can dominate through the air and on the ground, while Tampa Bay’s mistakes and inefficiency proved costly.

Washington enters Week 17 at 10–5–0, carrying momentum and confidence into the postseason.