In two frustrating months, the Commanders’ quarterback has gone from a star on the rise to a weekly question mark because of multiple injuries.

Washington's playoff hopes are fading, but protecting their franchise quarterback matters more than chasing short-term wins

Mariota went 1-1 as the starter during Daniels’ two-game absence, guiding the Commanders to a dominant win over the Raiders and a loss on the road to the Falcons. He was 4-for-10 for 63 yards, with one interception (it was returned 68 yards for a touchdown) and a 22.1 passer rating when he took over in relief in the second half in Dallas.

Things did not go according to plan for the Washington Commanders on Sunday afternoon in their Week 7 matchup against their NFC East rivals, the Dallas Cowboys.

The trauma suffered by this fan base during the Daniel Snyder era is real, but it's time to lay the ghosts of quarterbacks past to rest.