By Mummy Grace 
Lions’ Brian Branch: Shrinking the Pocket Key to Stopping Rookie QB Jayden Daniels
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch knows that to stop Washington Commanders rookie sensation Jayden Daniels on Saturday, the key lies in collapsing the pocket. Appearing on The Insiders Thursday, Branch emphasized the importance of containing Daniels, a quarterback who has impressed well beyond his rookie status.
“You got to shrink the pocket,” Branch said. “Jayden Daniels, I played him in college. He’s an exceptional quarterback. He kind of reminds me of Lamar (Jackson). Just how he moves and stuff, but to me that’s really the game plan. Just, you know, shrinking the pocket on him and make him make those throws.”
Daniels, who is on track to be named Offensive Rookie of the Year, has propelled the Commanders from an NFC East afterthought to a playoff contender. His poise and playmaking have been pivotal in Washington’s run, with Daniels throwing for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only 9 interceptions, while adding a rookie-record 891 rushing yards.
With his combination of athleticism and passing accuracy, Daniels has been a nightmare for defenses. However, Branch believes pressuring him by limiting his space to maneuver will be crucial to slowing the dynamic rookie.
The Lions, led by Branch and a defense that has exceeded expectations despite numerous injuries, enter the game as heavy favorites. Detroit’s defense, featuring Branch’s standout season with 109 tackles, 16 passes defended, and 4 interceptions, will need to contain Daniels while the Lions’ offense looks to capitalize on Washington’s vulnerabilities.
“We’ve been in this moment before, this time we are trying to finish it,” Branch said, referencing the Lions’ painful NFC Championship loss to the San Francisco 49ers last year.
The Lions finished the regular season with an impressive 15-2 record and enter Saturday’s divisional matchup with the pressure of proving they can finish what they started. Despite the media hype and high expectations, Branch remains focused on the task at hand.
“We know it’s all rat poison,” Branch said, quoting his former coach Nick Saban. “We don’t really pay attention to the outside noise. We know what we are capable of doing. We just want to prove it to ourselves that, who we are, that’s who we are.”
The Lions’ success hinges on their ability to neutralize Daniels, but with Branch’s leadership and the defense’s growing chemistry, Detroit will be ready for the challenge.