Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Geno Smith did not play in Saturday’s preseason Week 1 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Mike Macdonald and the coaching staff made the right decision, taking a cautious approach since Smith had just recently returned to practice from minor knee/hip injuries. Backup quarterback Sam Howell earned the start in his place.
Howell was effective and took advantage of his opportunity to play alongside the first-team offense. He concluded the first half by completing 10-of-20 attempts with 60 passing yards and a touchdown. The statistics don’t tell the complete story. Three of Howell’s incompletions were throwaways.
Sam Howell's Seahawks debut:
16-27
130 YDS
1-0 TD/INTSeattle decisively wins on the road. pic.twitter.com/XC80Y1vXoQ
— StatMuse NFL (@statmusenfl) August 11, 2024
Howell protected the ball and made quality decisions, which will encourage Seattle’s coaching staff, given he threw an NFL-high 21 interceptions as a member of the Washington Commanders last season. The Seahawks nursed a 14-3 lead at the half. Howell benefited from a dominant defense that allowed just 71 total yards on 25 plays.
Howell’s touchdown pass was a 13-yard score to tight end Brady Russell that opened the scoring in the second quarter. The dual-threat quarterback also used his legs well, scrambling for 17 yards via four rushing attempts.
It was a large-scale showcase for Howell, who was acquired from the Commanders in March in exchange for two 2024 NFL Draft picks. Howell played the majority of the contest, finishing with a 16-of-27 statline with 130 yards and one touchdown. He was then replaced by No. 3 quarterback PJ Walker, who completed 4-of-10 attempts for 61 yards.
The Seahawks are holding an open competition at backup quarterback. Howell has been the favorite ever since John Schneider traded for him, but it’s a little early to say the job is definitely his, given how well Walker has played throughout training camp. Howell maximized his opportunity on Saturday, showcasing he’s developing into a smarter quarterback.
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