Jared Goff, Lions Seek Redemption Against Commanders After Playoff Collapse

The Detroit Lions enter Week 10 with something to prove — and perhaps something to avenge. Quarterback Jared Goff admitted this week that last season’s shocking playoff loss to the Washington Commanders still lingers in the team’s collective memory, adding a layer of “extra motivation” ahead of Sunday’s rematch.

“Yeah, that’s definitely part of it,” Goff said. “But more than that, we just want to get off this losing streak and get a win. It’s been a while since that game, but it’s something that still sticks with us a bit.”

The Commanders stunned Detroit last January in the divisional round, winning 45-31 despite the Lions dominating in total yardage. The loss made Detroit the first team in NFL history to lose a playoff game while recording both 300-plus passing yards and 200-plus rushing yards — a statistic that still stings for one of last year’s top seeds.

Now at 5-3, Detroit travels to Washington hoping to reignite its momentum after last week’s home defeat to the Vikings. A win would not only keep their NFC North hopes alive but also symbolically erase some of the frustration that has lingered since that postseason collapse.

1. Motivation Fueled by Pain and Perspective

Lions head coach Dan Campbell hasn’t shied away from referencing last year’s playoff loss as fuel for the team. For players such as Aidan Hutchinson, who missed that game due to a season-ending leg injury, the memory provides a clear reminder of what’s at stake. “You know Dan is using it for motivation,” Hutchinson said. “It’s something we remember, but at the same time, this is a new year. We’re focused on the task at hand and giving everything we’ve got.” Campbell’s messaging has been consistent: embrace the past but don’t let it define the present. The Lions have built an identity under his leadership centered on resilience, physicality, and composure — traits they’ll need to rediscover to break their two-game skid. Despite the narrative of revenge, Goff and his teammates insist their focus remains on execution. “You always remember losses like that,” Goff said, “but the real goal this week is just to play clean football, stay sharp, and get back in the win column.”

2. Commanders in Flux After Daniels Injury

While the Lions are chasing redemption, Washington enters Sunday’s matchup in a state of transition. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated elbow in last week’s loss, forcing veteran Marcus Mariota to take over as the starter. Commanders head coach Dan Quinn publicly expressed regret over keeping Daniels in the game before his injury. “That’s 100 percent on me,” Quinn admitted, saying he should have pulled Daniels earlier. Campbell, however, defended his counterpart, calling the situation “unfortunate” but understandable. “You try to get your guy back in rhythm,” Campbell said. “I hate that for JD, but it’s not Dan’s fault.” Mariota, known for his mobility and experience, will now lead a Commanders offense that ranks near the bottom of the league in scoring. Despite their struggles, Washington remains dangerous on defense and has proven capable of springing upsets — as Detroit knows all too well. For the Lions, Sunday represents not only a must-win situation but also a mental test against a wounded yet unpredictable opponent. “Every team in this league can beat you if you’re not at your best,” Campbell warned. “We’ve got to bring it.”

3. A Test of Resilience and Identity

Statistically, the Lions have shown a remarkable ability to rebound under Campbell. According to ESPN Research, Detroit has won 12 straight games following a loss — the longest such streak in franchise history and tied for the best in the NFL over the past 15 seasons. That resilience will be tested again this week. Detroit’s offense, typically efficient under Goff, has struggled with consistency in recent outings. Meanwhile, the defense has faced issues with tackling and pass coverage that Washington could exploit if left unaddressed. Campbell said his focus is on returning to the fundamentals that made the Lions a contender. “I just want to see us play our brand of football for 60 minutes,” he said. “Urgency, intensity, focus — all of it. I want to see our playmakers making plays, our coaches coaching at a high level, and everyone competing like champions.” For the Lions, the path forward is clear: rediscover their identity, respond to adversity, and prove that last year’s playoff defeat was a fluke, not a forecast.