Colts defeat Commanders 30-13 in London as Taylor scores twice and Washington faces QB crisis

Key points

• Jonathan Taylor rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Colts control the game against a Commanders defense that had been strong against the run earlier in the season.
• Daniel Jones threw for 143 yards on 19 of 34 attempts but struggled, recording no touchdown passes, one interception, and a lost fumble; he also scored a rushing touchdown.
• Marcus Mariota started for the Commanders but left in the first quarter with a knee injury, leading to the debut of third-string quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis.
• Kaliakmanis completed passes for 186 yards and one touchdown, including a 47-yard score to Treylon Burks, but could not overcome the Colts' offensive dominance.
• The Commanders' wide receiver Jaylin Lane was carted off the field with an ankle injury and ruled out for the game.

Background

This matchup was part of the NFL's 2026 international tour in London, marking the first time these two teams played abroad since 2016. The Commanders had previously lost their only international game in Spain in 2025, while the Colts won their first international game in Berlin that same year. Both teams entered the game at 1-2 after winning their previous matchups against playoff teams. The Commanders had been dealing with quarterback instability, as Jayden Daniels missed the previous two games with a dislocated left elbow, and Mariota had started both of those games.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports emphasized the Colts' running game as the primary factor in the victory, noting that Taylor and Jones controlled the game despite Jones's poor passing performance. NFL.com highlighted the Commanders' defensive strength against the run, noting that they had allowed just 246 rushing yards through three weeks, but acknowledged that Taylor's performance was a career-worst in efficiency. USA Today provided a detailed play-by-play summary, confirming the scoring sequence and the injuries that affected the Commanders' quarterback situation. The Colts' official website focused on the broadcast details and the historical context of the matchup, noting that the Colts lead the all-time series 21-11.

Why it matters

The result has significant implications for both teams' seasons. The Colts improve to 2-2, but questions remain about Daniel Jones's ability to perform as a passer, especially with wide receivers Alec Pierce, Keenan Allen, and Ashton Dulin dealing with health issues. The Commanders fall to 1-3 and face a critical decision regarding their starting quarterback, as Jayden Daniels' return is uncertain, and Mariota's injury adds to the uncertainty. The Commanders' next game against the New York Giants will be a crucial test for their offense and overall team stability.

What to watch

The Commanders will face the New York Giants next week, with the status of Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota to be determined. The Colts will look to build on their win and address the concerns surrounding Daniel Jones's passing game. Both teams will continue to navigate the challenges of the 2026 NFL season, with the Commanders particularly focused on stabilizing their quarterback situation.