Washington vs. Arizona: A Week 10 Shootout That Came Down to Clutch Moments

In one of the most explosive games of the PML season, the Washington Commanders outlasted the Arizona Cardinals in a 45–38 offensive showcase. Both teams moved the ball at will, piling up over 1,100 combined yards, but Washington’s ability to avoid mistakes and capitalize on key moments ultimately decided the outcome.

This was a game defined by big plays, rapid scoring swings, and constant pressure on both defenses. While the Cardinals actually outgained Washington in total yardage, the Commanders found the extra possessions and red-zone conversions they needed to escape with a critical victory.

An Offensive Track Meet

Washington finished the night with 548 total yards, including 387 through the air and 161 on the ground. Arizona answered with 558 yards of its own—412 passing and 146 rushing—highlighting just how wide-open the game was.

For Washington, Jayden Daniels delivered one of his cleanest and most efficient outings of the season. He completed 13 of 18 passes for 314 yards and four touchdowns, while also avoiding any interceptions. His poise and decision-making allowed Washington to keep pace during Arizona’s scoring flurries.

Kyler Murray, meanwhile, put on a yardage clinic for the Cardinals. He threw for 377 yards and four touchdowns but also tossed three costly interceptions. While he consistently pushed Arizona down the field, the turnovers loomed large in a one-score game.

On the ground, Washington’s J. Croskey-Merritt gashed Arizona for 114 yards on just 13 carries, including a 56-yard breakaway and two touchdowns. Arizona’s Trey Benson produced a solid 94 yards on 15 carries, though he never found the end zone.

The receiving battle featured two dominant performances. Washington tight end Mark Andrews racked up 171 yards and two touchdowns, proving unstoppable in the seams. Arizona’s standout McBride answered with 174 yards and two scores of his own, keeping the Cardinals in striking distance all evening.

Where the Game Was Won

Despite Arizona’s edge in total yardage and a strong third-down conversion rate, Washington took control through situational discipline and opportunistic defense.

Turnovers were the ultimate difference. Washington played a clean offensive game, turning the ball over zero times. Arizona, on the other hand, suffered three interceptions—all of which resulted in lost scoring opportunities and extended chances for Washington’s offense. The Commanders didn’t dominate the stat sheet, but they dominated the possession battle when it mattered.

Red-zone execution also played its part. Arizona actually had a better touchdown percentage in the red area, but Washington’s overall scoring consistency kept them ahead. While Arizona’s drives often looked longer and more methodical, Washington struck quickly and efficiently whenever they crossed midfield.

Defensively, Washington got standout contributions from its secondary, including multiple turnovers that shifted momentum. Even though Arizona moved the ball nearly at will, Washington’s ability to stiffen at crucial moments prevented the shootout from tilting the other direction.

Player of the Game Candidates

• Jayden Daniels – Efficient, explosive, and mistake-free. His four touchdowns set the tone for Washington’s attack.
• Mark Andrews – A matchup nightmare, producing 171 yards and two scores.
• J. Croskey-Merritt – Provided balance with over 100 rushing yards and critical touchdown runs.
• Kyler Murray – Huge yardage and four touchdowns, but turnovers weighed heavily on the final result.
• Arizona’s McBride – Dominant at every level of the field with 174 yards and two TDs.

Final Thoughts

The 45–38 finish reflects the nature of the matchup: explosive, unpredictable, and full of momentum swings. Both teams showed they can score with anyone in the league, but Washington showcased the steadiness, ball control, and situational awareness that championship-caliber teams rely on.

Arizona walks away knowing their offense is elite, but turnovers and execution in tight moments remain areas to address. Washington leaves with a statement win—and the confidence that, when their stars are clicking and the turnovers stay down, they can beat anyone.