Washington Commanders Lose vs. Los Angeles Rams: 3 Takeaways
For much of the Washington Commanders' game against the Los Angeles Rams, they appeared to be heading to another hapless multi-score loss.
Then a spark came in the form of backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
The eight-year veteran replaced Sam Howell and led back-to-back scoring drives to turn a 21-point deficit in the fourth quarter into a one-possession game with under two minutes left in the game. Ultimately, it wasn't enough in a 28-20 loss to the Rams (7-7) on Sunday at SoFi Stadium, but it certainly raised questions and may have led to some answers the Commanders have been looking for all season.
Here are three takeaways from the Commanders' loss to the Rams.
Sam Howell's Future In Doubt
Sam Howell's woes in the second half of the season continued against the Rams. He completed 11 of 26 passes for 102 yards, one touchdown and an interception on his final pass of the game.
Howell has thrown two touchdowns and six interceptions in his last four games. While hitting a wall isn't uncommon for a first-year starter, struggling in four straight games is alarming.
When you factor in that new leadership will likely be in place for next season, and Washington is positioned to take a quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft, the way Howell is closing out this season is casting serious doubt over his future in the national capital.
Jacoby Brissett Gives Washington Its Best Chance To Win
The Commanders' offense looked the most surgical it has ever been this season the moment Brissett went under center.
In two drives, he completed eight of 10 passes for 124 yards and two touchdowns. Receiver Terry McLaurin, who wasn't able to get on the same page as Howell for most of the game, had multiple big catches with Brissett at quarterback, including a 29-yard touchdown.
If winning remains the top priority for a Washington team that's already eliminated from playoff contention, Brissett may have given the offense the spark it needs if they're going to remain competitive in their last three games.
Ron Rivera and Eric Bieniemy Have A Decision To Make
Trying to decide between doing what gives the team the best chance to win vs. prioritizing a young player's growth is tough, and that's the decision Rivera and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy will have to make.
On one hand, Howell could use the reps to continue to grow as an NFL quarterback if he hopes to one day lead a franchise. On the other hand, it's hard to see him turning things around when he's facing three teams with elite defenses in the New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys to close out the season.
Brissett's play unlocked a part of the offense that hasn't been seen for much of the year, and if Rivera and Bieniemy want to finish the season strong, they may have to bench their young quarterback in favor of the more proven veteran.
