5 winners and losers from the Commanders hammering vs. Bills in Week 3
By Dean Jones
Loser No. 2
Sam Howell - Commanders QB
Sam Howell was riding on the crest of a wave heading into Week 3. His performance at the Denver Broncos was nothing short of exceptional - although it does need to newfound context attached considering how Sean Payton's defense just gave up a mammoth 70 points to the Miami Dolphins.
The Washington Commanders didn't get enough from Howell against the Buffalo Hills, who terrorized the young signal-caller throughout. He was hesitant in the pocket, didn't get off reads quickly enough, and coughed the football up way too much for a legitimate starting NFL quarterback.
Howell had some nice moments, but the bad far outweighed the good. This was a steep learning curve for the former fifth-round pick, who couldn't keep up with Josh Allen's production as the Commanders fell by the wayside quickly.
The North Carolina product took full accountability for the team's failings. Ron Rivera also stated that Howell doesn't make the same mistake twice from game to game. but his pocket awareness has to progress quickly heading into the most intimidating atmosphere imaginable at the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.
This is a stern test of Howell's character. He's had things all his own way as a starter to date, so how he bounces back in the face of adversity will tell us plenty about his prospects as the Commanders' long-term option at football's most pivotal position.