Washington Commanders Comeback Bid Falls Short vs. Los Angeles Rams
The Washington Commanders will head back to the east coast frustrated after a 28-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday at SoFi Stadium.
The Commanders struggled on offense to start the game, getting shut out in the first half. The Rams tacked on 13 points to take the lead going into the locker room.
The Rams scored another touchdown to go up 20-0 early in the third quarter, but then the Commanders began to chip away in a too little, too late fashion.
Sam Howell found Curtis Samuel for a 19-yard score to break the scoreless run for the Commanders late in the third quarter. Howell had arguably his worst game of the season, completing just 11 of 26 passes for 102 yards, a touchdown and an interception.
Dec 17, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws as Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) moves in during the first half at SoFi Stadium.
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
In the middle of the fourth quarter, veteran Jacoby Brissett entered the game and immediately gave the offense a spark. Brissett led a five-play, 67-yard drive in the middle of the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to two touchdowns.
The Commanders were able to get the ball right back and take advantage, where Terry McLaurin caught a pass and ran it down to the 1-yard line with about five minutes to go. McLaurin had his best game of the season, catching six passes for 141 yards and a touchdown.
However, Washington stalled on the goal line, running nine plays before Brissett found Samuel for his second touchdown of the game.
The Commanders tried to kick it onside, but were unsuccessful. The Rams kneeled to end the game and capture the victory.
The Commanders are back in action on Christmas Eve when they host the New York Jets. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET.
