When Jayden Daniels, rookie quarterback of Washington Commanders launched a 52‑yard Hail Mary as the clock hit zero, the stadium erupted and the Bears fell 18‑15.
The drama unfolded on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, during Commanders vs. Bears, Week 8Northwest Stadium. The broadcast rolled across NFL Network, NFL RedZone and the Plus.NFL.com feed, but the real story was the final snap.
Game Summary
The first half was a defensive slog. Washington slipped a field goal in the opening quarter and another in the second, while Chicago stayed scoreless. The Bears finally cracked the third quarter with a touchdown, but the Commanders answered with a field goal to make it 9‑7. In the fourth, the Bears added a two‑point conversion, pushing the tally to 15‑9. With 1:12 left, Washington drove to the 30‑yard line, setting up what would become a historic finale.
- Final score: Washington Commanders 18, Chicago Bears 15
- Commanders record improves to 6‑2 (4‑0 at home)
- Bears drop to 4‑3 (0‑3 on the road)
- Play: 52‑yard pass from Daniels to Noah Brown
- Play time: 0:00 of the fourth quarter
The Hail Mary Play in Detail
From the 30‑yard line, Daniels took the snap, stepped back, and launched the ball deep into the end zone. It sailed 52 yards, spiraling over a sea of defenders. Noah Brown, the Commanders’ wide‑out, timed his leap perfectly, scooping the ball amid a cluster of Bears’ defensive backs. The catch was clean, the referees confirmed the touchdown, and the extra point sealed the victory.
Broadcast analysts broke down the mechanics. "They told the guys to get down there in position and try to tip it," one commentator noted. "Brown made the perfect move—go behind the defender, leap, and secure the ball. That's the easiest Hail Mary catch you’ll ever see, but it’s still a miracle."
Historical Context
This feat puts Daniels in rarified company. He becomes only the second rookie quarterback since 1970 to throw a 50‑plus‑yard, game‑winning touchdown as time expired, joining Tim Couch of the Cleveland Browns, who connected with Kevin Johnson for a 56‑yard strike in Week 8 of the 1999 season. Overall, it’s the seventh such Hail Mary in NFL history that sealed a win with no time left.
The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, received the game ball and a replica of the ball used for the play, adding the memorabilia to its growing collection of “last‑second miracles.”
Reactions and Quotes
Daniels, still rubbing his rib, told reporters, "I just heard people screaming and our sideline rushing the field. That's how I knew. Nothing but God, man, nothing but God. Without Him I don't even think I’d be playing this week, but man, all glory to God." When asked about the injury, he added, "A lot of long hours, long days, but I put myself in the position to go out here. Nothing."
Head coach Dan Quinn was caught on video searching for teammates to hug, his excitement palpable. "That’s a moment you dream about as a coach," Quinn later said. "These kids fought for it; they earned it. We’ll ride that energy into next week."
Opposing Bears coach Matt Eberflus, who was seen shaking his head, offered a measured take: "We gave them the ball with a chance, and they executed. It’s a tough loss, but it's the NFL. One play can change everything."
Impact on Standings and Season Outlook
The win nudges Washington back into a .500 record (3‑3) in the NFC East, keeping them within striking distance of division leader Philadelphia, who sits 4‑2. The Bears fall to 3‑2 in the NFC North, tied with the Vikings, while the Packers stay on top at 3‑1‑1.
Analysts predict that the Commanders’ momentum could translate into a playoff push, especially if Daniels stays healthy. "Rookie quarterbacks rarely get a moment like this and sustain it," said former NFL analyst Mike Mayock. "If he can build on this confidence, Washington’s offense could become one of the most dynamic in the league."
Meanwhile, Chicago must regroup quickly. Their road record remains winless, and the loss highlights a need for a more aggressive red‑zone strategy. Defensive coordinator Sean Desai noted, "We’ll review the coverage on that final play and make adjustments. It’s a learning experience for the whole team."
Key Facts
- Play: 52‑yard Hail Mary from Daniels to Brown
- Time: 0:00 remaining, 4th quarter
- Historical rank: 7th game‑winning 50+ yard pass with zero clock
- Rookie milestone: 2nd rookie QB since 1970 to achieve this
- Hall of Fame: Game ball sent to Pro Football Hall of Fame
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect the Commanders' playoff chances?
The victory improves Washington to 6‑2 overall and 4‑0 at home, keeping them within striking distance of the NFC East lead. A strong finish could secure a wild‑card spot, especially if Daniels stays healthy and the offense remains explosive.
What makes this Hail Mary historically significant?
It’s only the seventh time in NFL history a game‑winning pass of 50+ yards was completed as the clock expired, and Daniels is just the second rookie to pull off the feat since 1970, joining Tim Couch’s 1999 miracle.
Did the Bears have any chance to stop the play?
Coaches instructed the defense to “tip it,” hoping to deflect the ball. Unfortunately, the coverage collapsed, and Brown found a pocket in the middle of the chaos, making the catch inevitable once the ball hit the air.
What injuries did Daniels play through?
Daniels announced he was battling a rib injury sustained earlier in the season. He said the pain was manageable and credited his faith for getting through the game, but medical staff will monitor him closely in the coming weeks.
Why did the Hall of Fame receive the game ball?
The Hall of Fame collects artifacts that represent pivotal moments in football history. The dramatic Hail Mary, being only the seventh of its kind, qualifies as a milestone worth preserving for future generations.