The Washington Commanders’ 45-31 victory over the Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional Round on Saturday has brought an unwanted distinction to the Dallas Cowboys. With Washington advancing to its first NFC Championship Game since the 1991 season,

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.

After the Commanders defeated the Lions in the divisional round, the Cowboys now own the longest active drought, dating back to 1995.

The Detroit Lions are trying to shed some franchise history during the 2025 NFL playoffs. If the Lions can win two playoff games against Washington and then the winner of the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams,

The internet responds to the Washington Commanders unexpected win in the NFC Divisional round and the Cowboys continued NFC title drought.

That it is a “shocker” that the Lions of all teams will not be in the NFC Championship Game is still quite the reality to live in. Detroit has significantly turned around their culture and finally reached the penultimate game of the season last year.