How did the Commanders collapse like they did against the Eagles?
Washington took a 10-6 lead into the final quarter, but was clearly outplayed in the final 15 minutes. The Eagles scored 20 straight points to take a 26-10 lead before Washington scored on their final possession to increase the final lead to 26-18.
However, did you know that the Eagles actually scored five possessions in a row? The problem wasn't just the last quarter.
Some background information reminds us that the Commanders led 7-0 and could have gone into the locker room with a seven-point lead. This is where the game changed, not the failed 4th and 2nd game in the last quarter.
When the Commanders could have made a statement, the Eagles rose up and rushed for 87 yards in 15 plays. They settled for a field goal to end the half and only trailed 7-3.
On their first possession of the second half, the Eagles rushed 74 yards before settling for another field goal from Jake Elliott, making the score 10-6. After a punt by Tress Way, it was another long drive, this one covering 76 yards in 11 plays, giving the Eagles the lead for good at 12-10.
When the Commanders turned the ball over on downs, the Eagles rushed 74 yards down the field in just five plays to take a 19-10 lead. By this point the commanders' defense was completely gassed, worn down and beaten up.
After Jayden Daniels' interception, the Eagles needed just two plays to gain another 46 yards and take a 26-10 lead.
So there it is: Since the second quarter, the Eagles drove 87, 74, 76, 74 and 46 yards on five consecutive possessions.
So Commanders fans can stop talking about the fourth quarter collapse. The Eagles manhandled and dominated the Commanders' defense on five consecutive possessions.
No wonder Dan Quinn went for it on 4th-and-2. He could see what was going on and knew it wasn't good for the commanders.