So much is made of Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell and the sacks. Through seven games, Howell has been sacked 40 times. He’s on pace to shatter David Carr’s 21-year record — Carr was sacked 76 times in 2002.
Every week, we hear analysts and fans debate who is at fault for the sacks. The truth is, there is plenty of blame to go around. Howell does hold the ball too long at times, the offensive line hasn’t been good at times and offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy must also do a better job.
If there is one coach who works closer with Howell than anyone, even Bieniemy, is first-year quarterbacks coach Tavita Pritchard. A former college quarterback, QB coach and offensive coordinator, Pritchard is in his first season as an NFL coach.
On Friday, two days ahead of Washington’s rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles, Pritchard spoke to the media and was asked about Howell’s development.
What area of growth has stood out most to Pritchard?
It may surprise you, but it was an impressive answer and one that matters to coaches when developing young quarterbacks.
“I think one thing is you’ve definitely seen steady growth in just his operation of the offense,” Pritchard said.
“I guess what I mean by that is, you haven’t seen a lot of that procedural penalties, and we’re in and out of the huddle, so I feel like he’s handled that well because a lot of times with young quarterbacks, that’s one of the first things that’s happening. It’s just him getting out of the huddle and calling the snap count, right? I think he’s done well with that, but then it’s obviously about executing and protecting the football and moving the chains and scoring points.”
Pritchard confirmed with the media that the Commanders have had only one delay of game penalty through seven games.
There has been a lot thrown at Howell, so while we focus on the sacks, turnovers, or touchdowns, it’s the small things such as this that matter to coaches. Howell is showing signs of growth, whether or not some see it each week.