The Washington Commanders have had issues all season protecting their quarterback, Sam Howell. The topic has led to “experts” all over the interwebs giving their take…some good, some not so much.
The issue is three-pronged and includes problems with the quality of offensive linemen the team is carrying, playcalling to fit the QB still learning, and of course, the developing QB who, to this point, has had issues holding the ball too long. There is no easy fix to the situation, but the team started the process of shifting pieces heading into Week 8, and it appears to have worked.
The film review video (latest episode of “Watchin’ Film With Phil“) above details the Commanders offensive line’s day against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Commanders Make O-Line Switch
The Commanders moved guard Saahdiq Charles to the injured reserve list leading up to Week 8, meaning he’ll be out for at least four weeks. Chris Paul, the team’s 7th-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, took over and started against the Eagles. The team also swapped out starting center Nick Gates with veteran Tyler Larsen, who is making his comeback from a nasty knee injury in New York last season.
The results of the switch along the offensive line were definitely positive, as the team only gave up one sack against the Philadelphia Eagles defensive line, which is widely considered one of the best in the league.
Sam Howell Has Career Day
Second-year quarterback Sam Howell had his best day as an NFL starter against Philadelphia on Sunday afternoon. Howell was 39 of 52 for 397 yards, four touchdowns, and an interception.
Howell to McLaurin for SIX.
— NFL (@NFL) October 29, 2023
📺: #PHIvsWAS on FOX
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/Quwvdzpx7G pic.twitter.com/NHlnvMfoyk
The team will now shift to an AFC opponent they’ve struggled with over the last few meetings as the Commanders travel to Foxboro to take on the New England Patriots in Week 9.
