Sam Darnold Faces Key Challenge as Seahawks Pursue Playoff Aspirations
As the Seattle Seahawks gear up for a deep playoff run, quarterback Sam Darnold finds himself facing a significant hurdle: teams that excel at disguising defensive coverages. Currently holding a 9-3 record, Seattle’s upcoming opponents include several that have mastered the art of confusing quarterbacks, a skill that Darnold has struggled to navigate.
Darnold’s first season as the Seahawks’ starter has featured solid performances, but a glaring setback came during a narrow 21-19 defeat against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 11. In that game, Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula orchestrated a strategic masterpiece, fooling Darnold with a deceptive coverage scheme. What looked like one alignment at the snap quickly transformed, as safeties retreated to implement a different coverage altogether. This moment served as a stark reminder of Darnold’s ongoing battle with defensive scheming.
Upcoming Challenges from Elite Defenses
Three of Seattle’s final five regular-season opponents—Rams, Carolina Panthers, and San Francisco 49ers—are particularly adept at this deceptive technique. According to analysis, these teams rank among the top four in disguised coverage rates while maintaining a low blitz frequency. This strategic approach minimizes pressure on the quarterback while still creating confusion, a tactic that has proven effective against Darnold in the past. Notably, his struggles against Shula and the Rams were highlighted during last season’s playoff loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
For Darnold to lead Seattle into a successful postseason, overcoming this tactical challenge is essential. He must find ways to read defenses more effectively and adapt to the unpredictable nature of the coverages he will face.
Recent Performance Offers Glimpse of Hope
However, there is reason for optimism. In Week 12, Darnold rebounded impressively in a victory over the Tennessee Titans, a team known for its capability to disguise coverages similarly to the Seahawks’ future opponents. During that game, Darnold showcased his ability to adapt and execute under pressure, suggesting that he may be turning a corner in his development.
As the Seahawks prepare for the playoffs, Darnold’s growth in reading defenses will be crucial. The road ahead is filled with formidable adversaries, each equipped with defensive schemes designed to challenge him. If he can conquer this particular obstacle, Seattle’s aspirations for a deep playoff run may very well become a reality.
