Washington Commanders Coach Injured in Collision with Quarterback

Introduction to the Incident

LANDOVER, Md. (AP) — Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn wiped blood from his face as he walked to the locker room at halftime Sunday after getting knocked down on the sideline in a collision with quarterback Marcus Mariota.

The Collision

At the end of a 4-yard run in the final seconds of the second quarter of Washington’s game against the visiting Las Vegas Raiders, Mariota was shoved out of bounds. He knocked into Quinn, who fell backward and slammed his head on the ground.

Aftermath of the Collision

The second photo in the slideshow below may be alarming to some; viewer’s discretion is advised.

• LANDOVER, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Bobby Wagner #54 of the Washington Commanders checks on Head coach Dan Quinn of the Washington Commanders after he hurt his nose during the second quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Northwest Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)
• LANDOVER, MARYLAND – SEPTEMBER 21: Bobby Wagner #54 of the Washington Commanders checks on Head coach Dan Quinn of the Washington Commanders after he hurt his nose during the second quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Northwest Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)

Mariota dusted the coach off with a towel, but Quinn bled from cuts on the bridge of his nose. Linebacker Bobby Wagner was also seen dabbing Quinn’s nose with a towel.

Impact on the Game

Soon after, Matt Gay made a 56-yard field goal on the last play of the first half to give the Commanders a 20-10 lead at the break. Mariota is playing Sunday in place of Jayden Daniels, who is out with an injured left knee.

Conclusion

The incident highlights the risks and unpredictability of the game, not just for players but also for coaches and staff on the sidelines. Fortunately, despite the bloody injury, Coach Quinn was able to continue his duties after receiving initial care. The Commanders’ performance in the game, particularly with Mariota at the helm, shows resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges both on and off the field.

FAQs

Q: Who was involved in the collision?

A: The collision involved Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn and quarterback Marcus Mariota.

Q: What happened to Coach Quinn as a result of the collision?

A: Coach Quinn was knocked down, slammed his head on the ground, and bled from cuts on the bridge of his nose.

Q: Who assisted Coach Quinn after the incident?

A: Quarterback Marcus Mariota and linebacker Bobby Wagner were seen assisting Coach Quinn, with Mariota dusting him off with a towel and Wagner dabbing his nose with a towel.

Q: How did the incident affect the game?

A: The incident did not seem to significantly affect the game’s momentum, as the Commanders went on to make a 56-yard field goal before the half, led by Matt Gay, and maintained a lead.

Q: Why was Mariota playing instead of the usual quarterback?

A: Mariota was playing in place of Jayden Daniels, who is out with an injured left knee.