Washington Commanders QB Sam Howell 'Always Trying To Learn' After Getting Benched vs. Los Angeles Rams

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell was replaced by Jacoby Brissett in their 28-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
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Sam Howell's second-half struggles hit rock bottom on Sunday as he was benched on Sunday in the Washington Commanders' 28-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams.

Jacoby Brissett replaced Howell in the fourth quarter and orchestrated two scoring drives, completing 8 of 10 passes for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns. Howell lauded Brissett's impact on his career and his play against the Rams (7-7).

"I've picked up a lot from him throughout the entire year ever since he's gotten here and just the way he's supported me and just the things he's taught me. He played well," Howell said. "He did a good job. He was dealing [the] football and giving guys a chance. It was fun to watch and he did a good job.” 

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell (14) moves out to pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium.
Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell (14) moves out to pass against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Howell completed 11 of 26 passes for 102 yards with 1 touchdown and 1 interception in the Commanders' (4-10) fifth-straight loss. 

Howell's subpar performance continued what has been a tough second half for the second-year quarterback. Howell has thrown 3 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in his last four games. 

With Brissett throwing for more yards and touchdowns in two drives than Howell did in his 11 drives, he noted that there's plenty for him to take away from the veteran quarterback's performance. 

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“I know what it takes to play this position well in this league," Howell said. "Obviously, I've seen a lot of guys do it. Jacoby played well. He's a really good football player and he's shown that throughout his career. Watching him work the offense and those two-minute drills in those times and he did a good job of executing those situations and the plays that were called. So yeah, for sure, I’m always trying to learn and get better and he's a great one to learn from.”

Despite Howell's recent struggles and Brissett's success, Commanders head coach Ron Rivera reiterated that he's going to stick with the second-year quarterback under center. 

Howell will have a chance to bounce back on Sunday when Washington faces the New York Jets (5-9) at 1 p.m. ET at MetLife Stadium.


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