From 1982 until 1991, the Commanders played in a total of five conference title games and four Super Bowls during a span that ended with three Lombardi Trophies. However, after losing to the Lions in the NFC title game to end their 1991 season, the Commanders didn't make it back to the NFC Championship until beating Detroit on Saturday night.

Commanders safety Mike Sanristil picked off a Goff pass in the end zone to stop one last Lions drive in the first half, allowing everyone to finally catch their breath with Washington leading, 31-21. For the game, Washington had four interceptions (three of Goff and one of Williams on a trick-play attempt).