5 winners and losers from the Commanders win at Patriots in Week 9

Winner No. 3

Sam Howell - Commanders QB

There is a growing belief that the Washington Commanders might be onto something with Sam Howell. Reports emanating from the organization in recent days suggest there is a growing consensus about his chances as the franchise option under center, which is a dream scenario for the player and a team that's been crying out for quarterback consistency since Kirk Cousins left town.

Howell's performed well without getting wins on occasion this season. Thankfully, his standout effort in Week 9 at the New England Patriots was rewarded.

The former fifth-round selection did throw an ill-advised interception, but aside from that it was another good effort. Howell's pocket awareness and decision-making have come on leaps and bounds in recent weeks, which is matched by a live arm and ability to fit the football into tight windows with ease.

Another 300-yard passing game puts Howell second league-wide in passing yards gained. Not even the brightest optimist would have predicted this before the campaign, so it's not hard to why things are looking so promising for the North Carolina product.

Howell's overall demeanor and leadership by example have everyone in the locker room pulling for their signal-caller. There is a lot of football left and the prospect of changes to the coaching staff raises doubts, but the young gunslinger couldn't have done much more over his first nine games as the team's starter.