The Toon took the lead through Jacob Murphy before Fulham drew level via Sasa Lukic. But Bruno Guimaraes struck on 90 minutes to hand Newcastle the three points.
Afterwards, Howe said: "I don't know if there's anything that was said (on last season's capitulation). But that's in motion when they equalise.
"I just felt the difference today was our subs came on and made a big difference.
"But you'd be surprised if they didn't, you look at ther quality. Sandro Tonali coming on, Harvey Barnes, we had a very strong bench and hopefully that can make the difference for us."
On an injury suffered by Sven Botman, he also said: "I think he's OK. There's no concussion, it was a cut, but a very good recommendation from the on-field physio to take him off."
After the likes of William Osula and Anthony Elanga played big roles in Bruno Guimaraes' winner, Howe said: "I thought those players coming on made a big difference. I was really pleased with the last 25 minutes. We were the dominant team and you're just hoping we take one of those chances and thankfully Bruno did."