3 major observations from Sam Howell's preseason performance vs. Ravens
By Dean Jones
What major observations emerged from Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell's preseason performance against the Baltimore Ravens?
After catching the eye during limited involvement against the Cleveland Browns, quarterback Sam Howell took to the field for the first time since head coach Ron Rivera officially named him QB1. This was something many expected based on how things have unfolded throughout the offseason, but the hard work starts now in pursuit of better fortunes in 2023.
Howell got the chance to showcase what he has to offer in front of a national NFL audience on Monday Night Football against the Baltimore Ravens. The former fifth-round selection lived up to his billing, producing a fine first-half effort as the Commanders ended the record-breaking unbeaten run of John Harbaugh's men during warmup games.
This was another positive step in the right direction for Howell. Whether he'll play in Washington's preseason finale against the Cincinnati Bengals remains to be seen, but he'll go into the campaign brimming with confidence nonetheless.
With this in mind, here are three major observations from Howell's preseason performance against the Ravens at FedEx Field.
Sam Howell was composed
There's been a level of calmness to Sam Howell's time under center in recent weeks that's hard to ignore. It was another polished performance from the North Carolina product with ESPN in attendance against the Baltimore Ravens, displaying the composure normally associated with productive NFL quarterbacks throughout his time on the field.
Howell got sacked twice - which was thanks in no small part to holding onto the football for too long. He owned up to these errors after the contest, but it was almost flawless aside from that en route to a fantastic 123.4 passer rating.
Perhaps Howell's laid-back demeanor helps with the composure with which he plays and goes through progressions. It won't be perfect all the time, but this was better than even the brightest Washington Commanders optimist envisaged all things considered.