3 bold predictions for Commanders QB Sam Howell vs. the Bills in Week 3
By Dean Jones
Sam Howell gains 75+ rushing yards
Much has been made about Josh Allen's ability to create havoc in the run game. His arm strength is bad enough to contend with, but if things aren't developing as expected downfield the former first-round selection has no trouble gaining significant yards on the ground.
Allen's size and physical mindset running the football is something that needs discipline from the Washington Commanders. Putting pressure on the signal-caller whilst maintaining gap discipline is known for forcing the Wyoming product into mistakes, so that should be the approach Ron Rivera and Jack Del Rio adopt in front of a sold-out crowd at FedEx Field.
One mustn't ignore the impact Howell can have running the ball, either. While his gunslinging from the pocket remains a huge strength, his final college campaign at North Carolina when weapons were at a premium highlighted his athleticism and elusiveness.
Getting creative to keep the Buffalo Bills guessing is absolutely imperative for Howell and the Commanders offense with Eric Bieniemy leading the charge. If Howell can break off a couple of decent runs early, it might make the AFC juggernaut think twice about bringing blitzes or leaving too few men in the box as the contest goes on.
It's not the end of the world if he doesn't, but Howell gaining more than 75 rushing yards would be outstanding.