On Saturday night, the Washington Commanders pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the Detroit Lions 45-31.

This victory not only secured Washington’s first championship game appearance in three decades but also solidified quarterback Jayden Daniels as one of the league’s top players, regardless of his experience. It also dashed the No. 1 seed Lions’ playoff hopes, sending them home early.

The fans at Ford Field were in shock. Head coach Dan Campbell joined them in mourning the season and reflected on his team’s costly turnovers.

“Yeah, I don’t know, I don’t know what happened,” Campbell told reporters post-game. “It was just one of those, you know, odd days. Things were a bit off, and it wasn’t just one thing. It’s how the day went. This wasn’t our usual style. We didn’t play well. … At the end of the day, it’s on me. I didn’t have them ready … We just didn’t get it done.”

“It’s tough. When you lose these games … People don’t realize what the players go through. They’re hurting, both physically and mentally, and still have to stay locked in. It’s a long season.”

Quarterback Jared Goff threw three interceptions in the Divisional Round, two of which significantly hurt Detroit’s chances. He also fumbled late in the first quarter, leading to a touchdown.

The most painful moment, however, came from receiver Jameson Williams’ interception. Detroit’s trick plays had earned praise all season, but on Saturday, they ended up costing them.

An emotional Campbell made a surprising admission after the loss.

“It’s my fault,” Campbell said. “It’s my fault.”

Simply put, Detroit stuck to its aggressive game plan, keeping the defense guessing. In the end, Washington capitalized on the Lions’ collapse. Saturday night was as much about Detroit’s fall as Washington’s rise.

As the football world reacts to Detroit’s early exit, the Commanders are one win away from NFC dominance. They’ll look to finish the job against either the Philadelphia Eagles or Los Angeles Rams on January 26.