4 major observations from Sam Howell's performance at the Cowboys in Week 12
By Dean Jones
Sam Howell's impressive first half
All eyes were on Sam Howell to see if the quarterback could respond accordingly - as all great players at the position manage to do - in the face of adversity coming off such a disappointing performance. There was a renewed sense of purpose in his body language, which resulted in a hugely impressive first half.
Howell led the Washington Commanders on a number of decent drives that should have resulted in more points. Sacks and miscommunications came at critical times, which set the offense back considerably as they went into the interval behind 20-10.
As for Howell, he was poised in the pocket, made the correct reads more often than not, and protected the football with greater efficiency than he managed to accomplish against the New York Giants. The ex-Tar Heel also scored a rushing touchdown to further enhance his influence.
The statistics back up Howell's strong showing. It's just a shame the signal-caller cannot do it alone.
- 69.56 percent completion
- 170 passing yards
- 0 passing touchdowns
- 0 interceptions
- 2 sacks against
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 90.9 passer rating (ESPN)
It was a solid platform from which to build. But once again, Howell and the offense were being let down by another complete failure on the defensive side of the football.