Week 10 Result: Lost vs. Pittsburgh 28-27

Week 10 was a litmus test for the Washington Commanders—a matchup with one of the AFC’s hottest teams in the Pittsburgh Steelers ahead of a critical NFC East showdown with the rival Eagles in Week 11.

After rolling through opponents much of the season, the Washington offense stumbled in Week 10. Quarterback Jayden Daniels told reporters ahead of the matchup that he expected Pittsburgh’s defense to be a challenge.

“I mean, for years, I mean ever since (Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach) Mike Tomlin was there, he is a hell of a coach,” Daniels said. “Obviously, he doesn’t have a losing record for a reason. So, he is going to have his guys ready to play. They play hard. They know their scheme. They have some really good players, obviously got TJ Watt, Patrick Queen, guys like that, Minkah Fitzpatrick. But overall, the whole defense, they play together. They have a good continuity and it’s going to be a good challenge for us.”

Jayden Daniels made everything look so easy early in his rookie season that a person is almost taken aback when he struggles. But he did Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh held the favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year to a season-low completion percentage (50), zero touchdowns and only five rushing yards. The Steelers brought their trademark pressure, made Daniels uncomfortable and didn’t allow him to break outside of structure to create big plays. Not everyone has the personnel to slow Daniels in the same manner. However, the outcome shows teams can slow down and contain the talented young signal-caller. — Sobleski