The Washington Commanders' loss to the Denver Broncos was the closest thing they've had to a win in two months. Unlike the six previous setbacks in their losing skid, this was a hard-fought effort against a quality opponent.
There were several reasons for the improved level of play, but the biggest was the long-awaited return of wide receiver Terry McLaurin. After appearing in only one of Washington's previous eight contests, he made play after play down the stretch to help keep the Commanders in the game on Sunday Night Football.
His quarterback, Marcus Mariota, made sure everyone knew it.