Former UNC quarterback Sam Howell was impressive in his first official game action as a Washington Commander, scoring two rushing touchdowns and throwing a two-point conversion in Washington’s preseason game against the Carolina Panthers Saturday. Howell, who went to high school just half an hour from the Panthers’ stadium, no doubt relished playing against his hometown team.

Howell was the third quarterback to see action after Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke. Wentz and Heinicke were largely ineffective against a stingy Panthers defense in the first half, and Howell came into the game at the beginning of the third quarter facing a 20-6 deficit.

Though his first two drives ended in punts, Howell went to work in the final quarter. His 17-yard touchdown run capped off an 8-play, 74-yard drive and cut Carolina’s lead in half. The Panthers punted on their next possession, giving the ball back to Howell and the Washington offense. Howell once again went to work, converting an early 3rd-and-14 with a 40-yard pass before driving the Commanders to the goal line. There, Howell once again showed off his rushing ability by taking in a quarterback sneak for a touchdown.

Washington head coach elected to try for a two-point conversion to take the lead, and Howell found receiver Alex Erickson to complete the conversion.

The Commanders took a 21-20 lead with 2:26 remaining, but could not hold off the Panthers’ final drive. Carolina kicked a field goal with less than a minute to go and won the game, 23-21.

Nevertheless, Howell’s numbers spoke for themselves: 9-16 passing for 143 yards, the two-point conversion and no interceptions (Heinicke threw one), plus three rushes for 19 yards and two touchdowns. He was by far Washington’s most effective quarterback.

Dyami Brown also saw brief playing time in the game, though not with Howell. The former UNC wide receiver caught two passes for 14 yards.

Howell and Brown will see the field once again when Washington plays its second preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on August 20.

 

Featured image via Associated Press

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