Jayden Daniels made his return to Southern California on Sunday, playing close to his hometown for the first time as a professional. The Washington Commanders quarterback got off to a rocky start after missing two games with a left knee injury, but once his team found their rhythm, there was no stopping them.
The Commanders put together 27 unanswered points to take down the Los Angeles Chargers 27-10, securing their first road win of the season. Daniels finished 15 of 26 for 231 yards and added a touchdown pass in the final minute to cap off the victory.
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After dropping a tough one to the Atlanta Falcons last week, Washington needed to show they could bounce back on the road.
They did exactly that while ending a drought that had lingered for nearly four decades.
“The Commanders’ 27-10 win in L.A. is their first road win over the Chargers since 1986,” The Athletic’s Nicki Jhabvala shared on X.
The Commanders' 27-10 win in L.A. is their first road win over the chargers since 1986.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) October 6, 2025
Washington’s defense made the difference when it mattered most. After the Chargers jumped ahead 10-0 on their first two possessions, the Commanders forced a crucial fumble in the second quarter that completely shifted the momentum. From there, it was all Washington.
Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt became the story of the afternoon, punching in two rushing touchdowns. His 15-yard score in the second quarter got Washington on the board, and his third-quarter touchdown gave the Commanders the lead for good.
Croskey-Merritt made franchise NFL history as the first rookie running back with multiple rushing touchdowns in a single game since Chris Rodriguez Jr. accomplished the feat in 2023.
Washington Commanders running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt (22) celebrates after the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Matt Gay connected on a 29-yard field goal before halftime, set up by a 50-yard connection between Daniels and Luke McCaffrey. The Chargers threatened late after Croskey-Merritt fumbled, but Mike Sainristil intercepted Justin Herbert at the 1-yard line to shut down any comeback hopes.
Washington closed out the win with a 99-yard touchdown drive finished by Deebo Samuel.
The Commanders now turn their attention to Monday Night Football in Week 6 when they face the Chicago Bears.
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