Commanders defense buckles down in win over Falcons

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Sam Howell threw three short passes for touchdowns, Washington intercepted Desmond Ridder three times and the Commanders snapped a three-game losing streak with a 24-16 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.

Coming off a 40-20 home loss to the lowly Chicago Bears, the Commanders (3-3) redeemed themselves a bit against the Falcons (3-3).

Howell shook off five more sacks — he's now been dumped 34 times this season — to complete 14 of 23 passes for 151 yards in a close-to-the-vest passing game. The Commanders also showed more balance, rushing for 72 yards after dropping back to pass on their final 55 snaps against the Bears.

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But it was the defense that sealed this one for the Commanders.

Kendall Fuller grabbed the first interception against Ridder, returning it deep into Atlanta territory to set up a touchdown that pushed Washington to a 24-10 lead.

Benjamin St-Juste came up with the second pick in the end zone on a badly underthrown ball by Ridder with the Falcons facing third-and-goal from the 7. Falcons coach Arthur Smith reacted to the horrible throw by clutching his head with both hands.

Linebacker Jamin Davis sealed it for Washington in the final minute, picking off Ridder's final pass on a slant after the Falcons drove into Commanders territory looking for a tying touchdown and two-point conversion.

Howell worked well with his running backs, connecting on touchdowns of 1 yard to Antonio Gibson and 24 yards to Brian Robinson, who plowed over Richie Grant at the goal line. Curtis Samuel hauled in Washington's other TD on a 7-yard throw.

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond