Here are five key takeaways from Washington's 42-14 victory over Arizona.

The Washington Commanders secured their third consecutive victory with a decisive 42-14 win over the Arizona Cardinals, marking their first 3-1 start since 2011. Here are five key takeaways from the game:

1. A Strong Defensive Performance

Heading into Sunday’s matchup, the Commanders ranked among the league's weakest defenses. Despite head coach Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. noting some improvements, the unit had yet to meet expectations. However, they turned in a stellar performance at State Farm Stadium.

The Cardinals, sporting a 1-2 record, had one of the NFL's top offenses, sitting seventh in total yards and fourth in points per game. Their impressive third-down conversion rate of 45.5% led many to expect a high-scoring affair.

The Cardinals did score on their opening drive but struggled afterward, averaging only 4.6 yards per play and managing just four third-down conversions. After Marvin Harrison Jr.'s two-yard touchdown, Arizona punted three straight times, unable to break free for big plays, a recurring issue for Washington's defense in previous seasons.

While James Conner gained 104 yards with a long of 20, and Harrison made a critical fourth-and-12 catch for 19 yards, the Commanders' defense effectively minimized explosive plays. Though there's still room for growth, the unit demonstrated significant improvement and cohesion.

2. Jeremy McNichols Steps Up

With Austin Ekeler sidelined due to concussion protocol, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury acknowledged the need for alternative offensive strategies. Enter Jeremy McNichols, who had been named a game captain prior to Sunday. After contributing key blocks in last week's game-winning touchdown, McNichols shone with a career-high 68 rushing yards on eight carries, scoring two touchdowns, and adding a six-yard reception.

His standout play came in the first quarter, when he dodged defenders along the sideline for a 27-yard touchdown run. McNichols capped the game with a seven-yard rushing touchdown, sealing the victory for the Commanders. Although they anticipate Ekeler's return next week, McNichols has proven he can shoulder the workload if needed.

3. Containing Kyler Murray

The Commanders prepared diligently for 2019's No. 1 overall pick, Kyler Murray, who had amassed 161 rushing yards in his first three games. However, Murray struggled against Washington, recording just one scramble for a three-yard gain. This marks only the third time in his career with a single rushing attempt, and just the 11th game where he rushed for less than 10 yards.

Washington's defensive line excelled at maintaining their lanes, forcing Murray to rely on his arm. He completed 16 of 22 passes for 142 yards, his lowest total of the season and the seventh lowest of his career. The Commanders' front seven also sacked him four times, including one on a crucial fourth down just before halftime. With another mobile quarterback, Deshaun Watson, on the horizon, the Commanders have shown they can effectively manage such challenges.

4. Jayden Daniels’ Solid Performance

Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was due for a turnover, and it finally occurred in the first quarter with a pick targeting Terry McLaurin. Despite this rare mistake, Daniels had an otherwise strong showing, completing 26 of 30 passes for 233 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 47 yards on eight carries.

Daniels started the game with exceptional accuracy, hitting his first nine targets before the interception. He rebounded to connect with Noah Brown on a crucial third-and-13 conversion and threw a 10-yard touchdown to McLaurin in the fourth quarter. His 82.1% completion rate through four games is the best in NFL history for quarterbacks with at least 75 attempts in that span, demonstrating his poise and precision.

5. Early Division Leadership

Few anticipated the Commanders would lead the division after the first quarter of the 2024 season, but that’s precisely where they find themselves. Heading into Week 5, they are among five NFC teams with one or fewer losses, presenting a unique opportunity as they advance in the season.

Next, the Commanders will host the Cleveland Browns, followed by a road game against the Ravens. After that, they have consecutive home games against the Carolina Panthers and Chicago Bears. While it's essential to avoid overvaluing records in the NFL, the combined record of their upcoming opponents is 5-10.

Since January, it has been clear that the Commanders are in a rebuild, striving for playoff contention. The primary concern was the timeline for this rebuild. After a rocky start against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Commanders are just one win away from matching their total from last season, suggesting the rebuild may be quicker than anticipated.

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