Lions coach Aaron Glenn reveals one big insight into Commanders QB Jayden Daniels ahead of the NFL Divisional Round

Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn highlighted a key element in Jayden Daniels’ game. Washington Commanders the quarterback’s poised demeanor and pure joy for football remain constant, even as playoff pressure mounts.

Glenn, who commands the second-most aggressive rushing defense in the NFL (34.6%), must solve the Daniels conundrum in Saturday’s divisional clash. The Lions defense faces a Commanders offense that ranks seventh in total yards (369.6) and fifth in scoring (28.5 points per game).

During his press conference on Thursday, Glenn analyzed the Commander’s signaling ahead of their major battle at Ford Field.

“His demeanor and how calm he is, it shows throughout the TV copy, when you watch the TV copy,” Glenn said (08:10). “Another thing that comes out is that he’s having fun playing this game, which we all should. But you can tell he’s having fun and there’s no better way to play this game than when you’re having fun. Obviously, winning has a lot to do with it. .”

This mental strength is translated into extraordinary efficiency. Washington ranks second in the NFL in field goal percentage (50%) and broke league records with a fourth-ranked 87% conversion success rate.

A high-stakes chess match looms: Goff vs. Jayden Daniels

The Lions’ defensive strategy under Aaron Glenn could be a test Jayden Daniels‘composure. Detroit’s defense leads the NFL in third down stops, allowing a conversion rate of just 32.4%. They also stifled fourth down attempts, ranking second allowing just 41.4% success.

Washington’s success often hinges on critical downs. Commanders coach Dan Quinn demonstrated this boldness in the playoff opener against Tampa Bay. The team was 3-of-5 on fourth down attempts, including a key fourth-and-2 touchdown that clinched the win.

“We wanted to be bold, but not reckless,” Quinn said after Sunday’s win. “And I think that’s us all season. But when you get stopped early, you just have to stay the course.”

This match has opposing forces. Detroit’s defense excels against the run (98.4 yards allowed per game, fifth best), while Washington boasts the third-ranked rushing offense (154.1 yards per game). The Lions struggle against the pass (244 yards allowed, 30th), potentially creating opportunities for Daniels.

Both teams reflect each other’s aggressive philosophy. Lions coach Dan Campbell led the NFL in fourth down attempts since 2021. He showed his grit against Green Bay this season when he went for fourth and one instead of kicking a field goal in a tied game.

A winner could emerge from this battle of wills — Glenn’s strong defense against Daniels’ unflappable demeanor.