4 major observations from Sam Howell's performance at the Cowboys in Week 12
By Dean Jones
What were some major observations from Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell's performance at the Dallas Cowboys in Week 12?
After one of his worst performances since becoming Washington Commanders quarterback, Sam Howell got an almost immediate chance to put things right. And with the entire NFL audience watching, no less.
Howell and the Commanders made their daunting Thanksgiving Day trip to the Dallas Cowboys as heavy underdogs. That hasn't mattered to the former fifth-round selection in the past - the bigger the occasion, the better he seems to perform.
All eyes were on Howell at AT&T Stadium as pressure continues to mount on head coach Ron Rivera. As it turned out, the North Carolina product couldn't mastermind an upset as the Commanders fell to 4-8 on the season - a scenario most anticipated beforehand.
With this in mind, here are four major observations from Howell's performance at the Cowboys in Week 12.
Sam Howell's mobility
Sam Howell came under pressure early and often as expected. Thankfully for the player and the Washington Commanders, the signal-caller manipulated the pocket well, putting his immobility to good use in pursuit of keeping plays alive.
This is an underrated asset of Howell's game and a tool he should arguably put to greater use. There were even times when Eric Bieniemy called plays that got his quarterback rolling out in motion immediately after the snap - something that came with success and kept the formidable Cowboys defense on their toes.
Howell's improved maneuvering in the pocket and outside the numbers represent his increasing comfort and trust in himself. Long may it continue.