Commanders Dominate Browns in Week 17 Thriller
The Washington Commanders capped off their regular season with a resounding 34-13 victory over the Cleveland Browns in a Week 17 matchup that saw Washington’s offense and defense shine. The win, fueled by a dominant performance by quarterback Sam Howell, secured a winning record for the Commanders and sent a message to the rest of the league about their potential heading into the offseason.
Howell Shines in His First Career Start
In his first career NFL start, Howell delivered a performance that showcased his dynamic playmaking ability. He completed 16 of 21 passes for 169 yards and a touchdown, adding another 35 yards and a touchdown on the ground. Howell’s agility and ability to make plays outside of the pocket were on full display as he evaded Browns defenders and extended plays with his legs.
Defense Stifles Browns Offense
The Commanders' defense was equally impressive, stifling the Browns’ offense throughout the game. They sacked Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson five times, including a strip sack by Efe Obada that resulted in a fumble recovery for Washington. The defense also forced two interceptions, one by Benjamin St-Juste and another by Darrick Forrest, showcasing their ability to create turnovers and disrupt the Browns' rhythm.
Key Takeaways
- Sam Howell’s potential is evident: Howell's performance solidified his status as a potential franchise quarterback for the Commanders. His ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket, combined with his strong arm, suggests a bright future for the young signal-caller.
- The Commanders have a solid core: The Commanders' defense showed its strength in the Week 17 matchup, while Howell provided glimpses of his potential on offense. This foundation gives Washington a strong platform to build on heading into the 2023 season.
- The Browns have questions to answer: Cleveland’s offense struggled throughout the game, highlighting the need to address their offensive line and establish a consistent running game.
The Commanders' victory was a statement about their potential, while the Browns' loss highlighted areas that require improvement. With the offseason looming, both teams have opportunities to build upon their respective strengths and address their weaknesses in order to make a push for playoff contention in 2023.
