# Dan Quinn Clarifies Fourth Down Mistake

> Coach Dan Quinn admits he thought it was third down during a botched fourth down play in Washington’s loss to San Francisco.
- Title: Dan Quinn Clarifies Fourth Down Mistake · SI | Shortify
- Summary: Coach Dan Quinn admits he thought it was third down during a botched fourth down play in Washington’s loss to San Francisco. Washington’s coach Dan Quinn…
- Keywords: dan quinn, jayden danials, commanders, 49ers, nfl, fourth down, field goal, illegal shift, game management, nfc west, sports, Dan
- Source: SI — https://si.com/nfl/dan-quinn-debunks-viral-fourth-down-comment-commanders-loss-what-he-actually-said
- Published: 2026-10-20T05:06:25+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dan quinn, jayden danials, commanders, 49ers, nfl, fourth down, field goal, illegal shift, game management, nfc west, sports
## Commanders' Fourth Down Error
Washington faced fourth-and-2 from the 49ers’ 13-yard-line in the second quarter.
## Quarterback Threw Ball Away
Quarterback Jayden Daniels rolled out to his right and threw the ball away on fourth down.
## Illegal Shift Penalty
The play was flagged for an illegal shift, but the 49ers declined the penalty call.
## Coach Quinn's Confusion
Coach Dan Quinn appeared to say, 'Field goal. Oh, that was fourth down' on sideline.

> Field goal. Oh, that was fourth down
## Quinn Clarifies Knowledge
Quinn confirmed he knew it was fourth down but misunderstood the penalty situation.
## Daniels Takes Responsibility
Daniels admitted he knew there was a flag but didn't know the penalty call.
## Previous Week's Error
Washington failed to spike the football in overtime last week, resulting in a tie with the Giants.
## Current Game Outcome
Washington lost 23-17 to the 49ers but rallied in the second half with two touchdown drives.
## Team Record After Game
Washington enters bye week at 1-4-1, trailing the undefeated 49ers in the NFC West.
## Key takeaway

Washington’s coach Dan Quinn clarified he knew it was fourth down but mistakenly thought the play was third down during a fourth down error.