Rookie Sam Howell started the Washington Commanders' Week 18 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, and fans should be very pleased with what they saw.
It only took the fifth-round pick one pass attempt to find the end zone for the first time, in a game that became a convincing 26-6 victory for the Commanders.
Sam Howell's first NFL pass attempt goes for a TD to Terry McLaurin!
— NFL (@NFL) January 8, 2023
: #DALvsWAS on FOX
: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/2tZrKMRiWu pic.twitter.com/6a0KfqblwI
Washington's defense and run game, as well as Dallas' uncoordinated play, were the primary reasons for the victory. But Howell impressed too, showing a number of flashes both through the air and on the ground.
This is a high, high quality throw from Sam Howell. Wow pic.twitter.com/5XPdaFYsIX
— Ethan Cadeaux (@Ethan_Cadeaux) January 8, 2023
Sam Howell just kept an option and tucked the ball up field for his first career rushing TD. He's up to 35 yards on the ground for the #Commanders. pic.twitter.com/3MD084zfmC.
— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) January 8, 2023
Howell finished the game with 169 passing yards, 35 rushing yards, and two total TDs. He did throw a costly interception in the end zone early in the game but didn't let it haunt him and continued to show poise throughout the afternoon.
Furthermore, the Commanders looked like a complete team again with Howell under center, making plays in all three facets of the game. They were able to return to the winning formula that earned them six victories in seven weeks earlier in the year with Taylor Heinicke at QB.
It was a week too late to make a difference in Washington's playoff hopes, but as the Commanders enter yet another offseason of QB uncertainty, fans should take solace in knowing they already have one promising option.
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