October 27, 2024. Landover, Maryland, USA. Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, 5, runs with the ball and Chicago Bears defensive end Montez Sweat, 98, gives chase during the first quarter at Commanders Field. Required Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
The Washington Commanders (5-2) lead the Chicago Bears (4-2) 9-0 at halftime of their Week 8 matchup at Northwest Stadium.
The Bears started the game on offense, but Washington’s defense quickly turned on them, forcing a three-and-out on their first possession. Jaden Daniels took the field in his place and ran for a first down on the first drive, showing no signs of the rib injury he suffered last week.
Washington’s running game was the story of its first drive. The team quickly moved down the field before stalling in the red zone, leading to an Austin Seibert field goal.
After another defensive stop, Daniels faced a third-and-long from deep in Washington’s territory, but managed to run for a first down and keep the drive alive. A few plays later, Daniels connected with wide receiver Terry McLaurin for a 61-yard completion inside the red zone.
Unfortunately, a red zone penalty set the Managers back and they had to settle for another field goal.
After Daniels led the managers once again deep into Chicago territory, left guard Nick Allegretti was penalized downfield, erasing a 24-yard completion to Dyami Brown.
On 3rd-4, Daniels found tight end Zach Ertz in the corner of the end zone and it looked like Washington had scored its first touchdown, but officials said the ball moved when it hit the ground. The touchdown was ruled incomplete. Seibert kicked another field goal to make it 9-0.
The Bears had their best drive of the game and were in field goal range, but Washington’s pressure on quarterback Caleb Williams pushed them out of field goal range and forced them to punt.
The Coaches’ first half was disappointing, as their offense outscored the Bears 267-90 but had to settle for three field goals. Washington’s defense was excellent, putting consistent pressure on Williams and sacking him twice.
Daniels completed 10 of 19 passes for 154 yards in the first half, but the managers dropped four passes and were called back for even bigger gains.
Daniels also rushed for 31 yards on three attempts. Brian Robinson Jr. led the managers with 50 yards on the ground.
Washington kicks off the second half.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders lead Bears 9-0 at halftime
