Sam Howell has a much different perspective than most.
Howell a guest on the “Kevin Sheehan Show” podcast, on Tuesday seemed to say all of the right things and more.
Sheehan commented that Howell has only played in one regular season game, so he asked Howell if he was feeling pressure for the game Sunday.
“No, not really. I try to treat it as any other game, and I try to do my best throughout the week to be prepared…”
Howell explained to Sheehan that Wednesday’s practice will be working on base downs, Thursday on the 3rd down offense and Friday will focus on red zone offense.
Adjusting to a new offense is certainly not anything easy. Howell is also adjusting to a new offensive coordinator in Eric Bieniemy. Again, Howell was positive. “It’s been so much fun to learn from and play for a guy that works so hard and cares so much. I’ve learned so much from him. I can’t imagine someone better to go into battle with on Sunday.”
Sheehan inquired into Howell’s reaction to Ron Rivera’s statement regarding not knowing Howell could play that well last season or he would have played him sooner. “I really don’t think much of it. He’s a great coach and knows exactly what he is looking for.”
“Last year, we had Carson (Wentz), who I still think is a talented quarterback. We had Taylor (Heinicke), who has proven himself in the opportunities he was given. So, I don’t think he (Rivera) was wrong in the decisions he made last year. Do I think I could have played and played well? Of course, I do. But I will always think that way.”
“I think Coach Rivera has always had good judgment. You can only do so much in practice. I feel like I was doing the right things in practice. But you really don’t know about somebody until they go out there in a real game and prove it.”
We don’t know how well he will perform on the field Sunday, but Sam Howell sounded genuinely humble, genuinely responsible, and supportive of both Ron Rivera and Eric Bieniemy.