The Washington Commanders are making a change at the quarterback position. After a dismal performance against the New York Jets, Sam Howell was benched in favor of Jacoby Brissett. Brissett nearly led a wild comeback against the Jets, and will now be the starter for this week’s matchup against the 49ers.
The #Commanders are making a QB change with two games left. Following his impressive performance on Sunday, Jacoby Brissett will start against the #49ers, coach Ron Rivera is announcing.
Sam Howell to the bench. pic.twitter.com/hZ1P8Rfwfl
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 27, 2023
Sam Howell had a terrible game against the Jets
Howell completed just 6-of-22 passes for 56 yards and 2 interceptions against the Jets. The Commanders were down 27-7 at one point, with a comeback looking extremely unlikely.
However, Brissett entered the game and the Commanders actually outscored the Jets 21-3 in the second half. This game was the 3rd in a row that Brissett saw snaps in. Howell has been on a month-long streak of poor play, last eclipsing the 130-yard passing mark since the end of November.
Washington Commanders will turn to the experienced vet
Regardless of who plays QB, it will be tough for the Commanders to pull out a win over the San Francisco 49ers. However, the team clearly prefers to go with the veteran over the young Howell who has struggled mightily against top defenses.
Through 2 games in 2023, Brissett has completed 18-of-23 passes for 224 yards and 3 TDs. Most importantly, the veteran has not turned the ball over, which has been a major problem with Howell.
The Brissett-led Commanders will kick off against the 49ers on New Year’s Eve at 1:00 p.m. ET.