4 major observations from Sam Howell's performance vs. NY Giants in Week 11
By Dean Jones
Sam Howell was erratic
Considering the improvements made by Sam Howell from a poise standpoint, it was surprising to see the signal-caller so erratic against the New York Giants. The composure that saw him flourish in recent weeks was replaced by hesitancy behind an offensive line that went through some significant complications versus the New York Giants' blitz-happy defense led by Wink Martindale.
Howell's decision-making suffers when he's under strain. This can be said of almost any quarterback, but the player does tend to put the football in harm's way rather than take the safe option - a sign that more development is needed whether pressure is arriving frequently or not.
Of course, Howell wasn't alone where suspect ball security was concerned. The Washington Commanders committed way too many turnovers in key moments - something that gave them a mountain to climb as their season threatened to spiral out of control.
These are the rollercoaster moments associated with inexperienced men under center. There were some nice moments from Howell - most notably from a pocket movement standpoint - but they were less fleeting than we've seen at any stage since Washington last went up against the Giants.
And yet, somehow, Howell had a chance to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat late on...