5 winners and losers from the Commanders' defeat at Seahawks in Week 10

Winner No. 3

Sam Howell - Commanders QB

Amid all the doom - and there's been plenty of that for the Washington Commanders this season - one shining light has emerged. One that represents hope for the future after so long without a legitimate franchise quarterback.

Sam Howell looks like he's the guy. The first one since Kirk Cousins who can provide stable production under center and make things happen in crucial moments.

Aside from an ill-advised fumble when fighting for extra yardage, Howell's performance was encouraging. He went over 300 yards once again to move himself up to No. 1 in passing yards league-wide, adding three touchdowns through the air and not throwing a single interception along the way.

Howell's poise in the pocket and his manipulation of said pocket are coming on a great deal. His decision-making is right where it needs to be currently and Eric Bieniemy now fully knows how to get the best out of his signal-caller.

As signs are pointing up for Howell. Sunday's game against the lowly New York Giants is another chance for the North Carolina product to cement his status as this team's starting quarterback next season.

The Commanders always have a chance with Howell. It's other areas that are in dire need of improvement.

Howell is always keen to focus on the result rather than his performance. But there is a growing consensus that a special future could be in the offing if the team builds around him effectively.