detroit lions Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn pointed out a key factor in Jayden Daniels’ game. Washington commander Even as the pressure of the playoffs mounts, the quarterback’s calm demeanor and pure joy for football remain the same.

Glenn, who commands the NFL’s second-most offensive blitzing defense (34.6 percent), will have to solve Daniels’ dilemma in Saturday’s divisional round showdown. The Lions defense faces a play-calling offense that ranks seventh in total yards (369.6) and fifth in scoring (28.5 points per game).

During Thursday’s press conference, Glenn analyzed the Commander’s signal caller before the primetime game at Ford Field.

“When you watch the TV copy, his demeanor and his calmness comes across throughout the TV copy,” Glenn said (08:10). “The other thing is he’s having fun playing the game, and we should all be doing that. But you can tell he’s having fun, and there’s no better way to play the game than when you’re having fun. Obviously, Winning has a lot to do with that.”

This tenacity has translated into extraordinary efficiency. Washington ranked second in the NFL in scoring percentage (50 percent) and broke a league record with an 87 percent conversion rate on fourth down.

High-stakes chess match looms: Goff vs. Jayden Daniels

Lions’ defensive strategy could be tested under Aaron Glenn Jayden Daniels‘ Calm. Detroit’s defense leads the NFL in third downs, converting just 32.4 percent of those possessions. They also stifled fourth down attempts, allowing just the second-highest success rate at 41.4 percent.

Washington’s success often hinges on serious setbacks. Commanders coach Dan Quinn displayed that bold spirit in the playoff opener against Tampa Bay. The team scored touchdowns on three of its five possessions on fourth down, including the crucial fourth and second touchdowns that secured the victory.

“We’re going to be bold but not reckless,” Quinn said after Sunday’s win. “I think that’s what we’ve been like all season. But when you get stopped early, you’ve got to stay the course.”

This game has a contrasting advantage. Detroit’s defense excels against the run (fifth-ranked 98.4 yards allowed per game), while Washington has the third-ranked rushing attack (154.1 yards per game). The Lions are having trouble passing the ball (244 yards allowed, 30th), which could create opportunities for Daniels.

Both teams embody each other’s offensive philosophies. Lions coach Dan Campbell has been leading the NFL in rushing attempts since 2021. He showed boldness against Green Bay this season when he didn’t kick the field goal in the final seconds of a tie game, opting instead for a fourth-and-1 play.

This battle of wills may produce a winner — Glenn’s high-pressure defense contrasted sharply with Daniels’ calm demeanor.