QB Goff, Lions upset at home - Marin Independent Journal

NFL PLAYOFFS

QB Goff, Lions upset at home

Daniels, Commanders stun top-seeded Detroit to reach the NFC Championship

Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16), a Novato native, reacts to a touchdown pass to Sam LaPorta against the Commanders during the first half of Saturday’s divisional playoff game in Detroit. REY DEL RIO — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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By Larry Lage

The Associated Press

DETROIT >> Jayden Daniels threw for two touchdowns in a flawless performance by Washington’s dazzling rookie, and the Commanders stunned the Detroit Lions 45-31 on Saturday night to reach the NFC championship game for the first time since winning the Super Bowl 33 years ago.

The sixth-seeded Commanders (14-5) were nearly double-digit underdogs against the Super Bowl favorite Lions (15-3) and overcame doubts as they did all season with a rookie quarterback, new coach and general manager.

Detroit, the NFC’s No. 1 seed for the first time, doomed its chances by turning it over five times.

Washington rookie Mike Sainristil had two interceptions, including one on a trick play with receiver Jameson Williams throwing into coverage off a reverse in the fourth quarter. And Quan Martin returned a pick 40 yards for a touchdown.

Novato native Jared Goff, a former standout at Marin Catholic, threw three picks and lost a fumble, turning it over three times in the ill-fated first half.

Daniels finished with 299 yards passing and 51 yards rushing, and — just as important — didn’t turn the ball over.

First-year coach Dan Quinn