The story of Washington’s 26-6 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday was rookie quarterback Sam Howell. Making his first career start, Howell completed 11 of 19 passes for 169 yards with a touchdown and interception. Howell also showed his legs, rushing for multiple first downs with 35 yards and a touchdown.
Howell wasn’t perfect, but for a first career start, he looked ready for the moment. Howell wasn’t intimidated by the pass rush, and when he saw good coverage, he didn’t force the ball and took off running to create positive plays. Howell had only one bad throw in the win.
Who else stood out? Running back Jaret Patterson took advantage of his opportunity with Brian Robinson Jr., Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic all sidelined. Patterson rushed for 78 yards on 17 attempts against the Cowboys’ first-team defense.
PFF grades Washington’s top 10 offensive players from Sunday’s win over the Cowboys.
10. WR Dyami Brown
Dyami Brown #2 of the Washington Commanders looks on during the second half of the game against the Dallas Cowboys. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)
Grade: 55.6
9. WR Cam Sims
New York Giants cornerback Fabian Moreau (37) breaks up a pass for Washington Commanders wide receiver Cam Sims (89). Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Grade: 57.9
8. WR Dax Milne
Dax Milne #15 of the Washington Commanders runs with the ball during the second half of the game against the Dallas Cowboys. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)
Grade: 60.0
7. RB Jaret Patterson
Washington Commanders running back Jaret Patterson (32) carries the ball against the Dallas Cowboys. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Grade: 60.9
6, TE Cole Turner
Washington Commanders tight end Cole Turner (85). Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Grade: 66.5
5. QB Sam Howell
Sam Howell #14 of the Washington Commanders throws the ball during the second half of the game against the Dallas Cowboys. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Grade: 68.5
4. WR Terry McLaurin
Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders looks on during the second half of the game against the Dallas Cowboys. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Grade: 69.3
3. LT Charles Leno
Charles Leno Jr. #72 of the Washington Commanders. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)
Grade: 75.1
2. WR Jahan Dotson
Jahan Dotson #1 of the Washington Commanders looks on during the second half of the game against the Dallas Cowboys. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
Grade: 83.7
1. C Wes Schweitzer
Sam Howell #14 of the Washington Commanders looks on before taking a snap in the second half of a game against the Dallas Cowboys. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)
Grade: 83.9
Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.