Fight breaks out in Commanders-Giants game after Sam Howell TD, injury
There’s war in Washington, D.C. On Sunday, the Washington Commanders and New York Giants clashed after Giants free safety Xavier McKinney delivered a late hit on quarterback Sam Howell.
Trailing the Giants 14-3 in the second quarter, Howell rushed in a spectacular run. However, after crossing the goal line, the Giants’ defense bounced him backward and play continued. Refusing to go down, Howell stayed on the run, rushing toward the left side of the field.
After McKinney tossed him to the ground, Howell’s fellow commanders launched themselves around his downed body. As expected, words and blows were exchanged. When the dust settled, Commanders wide receiver Curtis Samuel and Giants cornerback Cor’Dale Flott were ejected from the game.
Meanwhile, Howell headed to the Commanders’ injury tent to be examined. He returned to the field shortly after. It’s no surprise to see Howell’s teammates fiercely defend him. In just 11 starts, Howell has become the hope of a franchise.
Washington Commanders defend Sam Howell at all costs
The former North Carolina standout leads the NFL this season with 2,783 passing yards this season. In no coincidence, Howell also leads the league with 397 pass attempts and the Commanders average the fewest rushing attempts, 20.2 per game.
The Commanders see Howell grow every game.
“We’re always telling Sam to keep his eyes downfield, and then there’s hot spots that we’re trying to hit when those scramble drills are taking place,” Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy said, according to The Washington Post. “Those are the things that you love, because there’s growth.
“He hates to lose, he hates to be wrong, but he’s never going to let you see that frustration come out in him,” Bieniemy said. “In fact, he’d be a great poker player.”
Despite Howell’s impressive accolades, the Commanders have struggled to find wins this season. The team entered Sunday 4-6, ranking third in the NFC East. The only team the Commanders sit above in the division is the New York Giants, who are a mere 2-8.
While the team isn’t winning weekly, Howell is confidence they are heading in the right direction.
“I just think my overall understanding of defensive football has gotten better throughout the year,” Howell said. “And obviously [it comes from] just having those in-game experiences and just learning more about what defenses are trying to do to stop us.”