In a critical late-game situation, the Washington Commanders found themselves in an unfortunate turn of events that prevented them from attempting a potential game-tying play. After Jahan Dotson dropped a pass from quarterback Sam Howell on a fourth-and-5 play from the New York Giants’ 7-yard line, the Giants regained possession with 1:01 left in the game. Tyrod Taylor executed consecutive kneel-downs to run down the clock, and Washington used its final two timeouts.
With the Giants facing a third-and-12 from their own 5, Taylor knelt down again with 51 seconds remaining. Since the NFL’s play clock lasts 40 seconds, it meant that the Giants would need to run at least one more play, whether that be a punt, a safety, or a long pass downfield.
However, a significant twist occurred when Commander Pro Bowl defensive tackle Daron Payne sustained an injury. According to NFL rules, if a player from the team of the injured player does not have any timeouts, a 10-second runoff occurs after the two-minute warning. This time rule took effect after the injury, causing the game to end right there, and Washington was unable to get the football back for a potential Hail Mary attempt with only a few seconds left.
Despite having opportunities to score after forcing multiple Giants turnovers, the Commanders were ultimately unable to find the game-tying touchdown, resulting in their 14-7 loss to the Giants.
