Commanders News: Eric Bieniemy, Sam Howell, Malik Willis and game day arrives

What the Commanders want from Sam Howell

As Sam Howell gets set to take the field for his first preseason game as the Washington Commanders' starting quarterback, the franchise's fate hangs in the palm of his hands. It's a lot to ask of someone with one career start, but Ron Rivera's confidence hasn't wavered whatsoever in a player that could have the X-factor needed to propel this offense forward.

Just how much Howell is going to play tonight at the Cleveland Browns remains to be seen. Any injury would be disastrous, but the Commanders also need to get him live reps in a game-day environment to minimize complications when competitive action arrives.

When discussing what he expects from Howell in Washington's preseason opener, Rivera stated via USA Today Sports that he'll be examining the player's command of the huddle and how he's recognizing things pre-snap rather than his throwing ability, which is already proven.

"I think the biggest thing is when we get on the field, more so than anything else, is going to be his command in the huddle and then his command at the line of scrimmage and then his decision-making once the ball snapped. That’s what we’re looking for, is to see how he handles all those unique situations."

- Ron Rivera via USA Today Sports

Nobody should get carried away regardless of how things go for Howell this evening. This is another step in a long process, with the ultimate goal centered on getting the former fifth-round selection out of North Carolina ready for Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals.