The Facts: Howell will start the season opener at quarterback, coach Ron Rivera said Friday, ending what had been a one-sided competition for the job.

Diehards Line: As ESPN.com's John Keim notes, Howell has worked only with the starters since spring practices began. He has taken all but several reps with the starters; Jacoby Brissett, signed in the offseason, took his place for a handful of snaps before the preseason opener against the Cleveland Browns. Washington hosts the Arizona Cardinals in the season opener on Sept. 10. ... Keim went on to remind readers it has long been known this was Howell's job to lose -- and he never did anything to lose his grip. The Commanders liked his decisiveness -- particularly when working through progressions and spotting an open target -- and his improved footwork, on both pass drops and handoffs. They like his decision making. They say other aspects of his game, such as becoming more efficient in the red zone, can be developed with more experience. "The biggest thing I'm really pleased about has been his decision making; that has been a big plus," Rivera said Wednesday.