4 major observations from Sam Howell's performance vs. the Eagles in Week 8

What were some major observations from Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell's performance against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 8?

Sam Howell is on course to be the most sacked quarterback in NFL history. Facing the red-hot Philadelphia Eagles and their stout defensive front represented a tough obstacle to overcome, but the signal-caller could take great heart from his heroics against the NFC conference champions earlier this season before falling in overtime.

The Washington Commanders' fortunes were hanging in the balance heading into this one. Nobody expected all that much after such an inept showing in Week 7 at the New York Giants, but those within the building - Howell included - were obviously keen to put together a bounce-back performance.

As it turned out, Howell and the Commanders couldn't upset the Eagles despite a valiant effort. This piles more pressure on head coach Ron Rivera with the team sitting at 3-5 and seemingly going nowhere fast.

With this in mind, here are four major observations from Howell's performance at FedEx Field in Week 8.

Sam Howell'sensational start

If the Washington Commanders were looking to Sam Howell for inspiration, they got it right out of the gate. The former fifth-round selection was nothing short of phenomenal over the opening two drives, moving the ball extremely well, going a perfect 7-for-7, and delivering a sensation touchdown throw to Terry McLaurin for good measure.

Howell was also kept upright by his revamped offensive line, which obviously helped. When the quarterback gets time to go through his progressions and the scheme plays to his strengths, the production follows more often than not.

It was a promising opening from Howell that also came with a 139.0 passer rating. But there was a long way to go versus a team that came into the contest high in confidence.

Sam Howell's composed first half

Sam Howell clearly got a lot of confidence from his early success. The Washington Commanders put up far more of a fight in this one than they managed last time out at the New York Giants, which was thanks in no small part to the signal-caller's first-half contribution.

Howell's poise, accuracy, and ability to come through in clutch situations were evident throughout the opening two quarters. The North Carolina product looked better prepared and in fairness to the offensive line starting Chris Paul and Tyler Larsen for the first time in 2023, they were able to provide stable protection at long last.

As previously stated, offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy had a specific intent to get the football out of Howell's hands quickly. Everyone seemed to benefit aside from a couple of ill-advised calls, which had the Commanders holding a seven-point advantage at the interval.

Want further proof? Howell's statistics lent further weight to what was an impressive opening to the contest.

• 92.3% completion
• 226 passing yards
• 2 touchdowns
• 0 interceptions
• 0 sacks against
• 128.5 passer rating (ESPN)

Honestly, Howell seems to perform better against the most efficient defenses when there are no real expectations on the Commanders. Putting it all together against supposedly inferior opposition is the next big step.

Sam Howell produced with better protection

Much has been made about the offensive line's suspect protection this season. To say they've been subpar would be a huge understatement.

We've already mentioned that second-year quarterback Sam Howell was on course to break the NFL's single-season sack record currently held by David Carr heading into Week 8 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Something that led head coach Ron Rivera to make changes in the hope improvements arrived.

Veteran free-agent signing Nick Gates was benched as Tyler Larsen switched to the center position and Chris Paul came in for injured left guard Saahdiq Charles. The step forward was immediate, which was also assisted by Eric Bieniemy's play-calling which set a positive tone.

This development was extremely welcome for Howell, who had arguably his best game of the season behind easily the best protection he's had the benefit of since taking over as the Washington Commanders starting quarterback.

Howell was sacked just once for a loss of nine yards. Considering almost everyone across the offensive line has represented a human turnstile at stages in 2023, this was a significant step in the right direction.

Washington's line kept him relatively out of harm's way throughout and the production reflected Howell's newfound safety in the pocket. If this trend continues moving forward, all hope is not lost for the Commanders and head coach Ron Rivera.

Sam Howell faltered late

Just when it looked like Sam Howell might be putting together an almost flawless game, it all came crashing back down to earth at the worst possible time. The signal-caller faltered down the stretch versus a stout Philadelphia Eagles defense - not even a sensational late touchdown throw to Jamison Crowder could change that.

When one looks at Howell's full body of work against the Philadelphia Eagles, it was extremely encouraging. That doesn't detract from how critical the fourth-quarter interception became to the overall outcome.

This is what separates the good quarterback from the great - coming through in the clutch and protecting the football. Howell can look back on his performance with pride, but his mindset probably dictates he'll be kicking himself for giving up such a costly turnover.

Howell eventually finished with 397 passing yards, four touchdowns, and a 114.0 passer rating. Unfortunately, there was an interception that gave complete momentum to the Eagles and moved them to 7-1 in the process.

This will no doubt hurt Howell and it does nothing to lessen the pressure on Ron Rivera's shoulders. But getting almost 400 passing yards against such a prolific defense is another feather in his cap en route to becoming Washington's long-term option under center.

The future looks bright for Howell if he continues this trajectory. What comes next for the Commanders at 3-5 with the trade deadline rapidly approaching is a different question.