Atlanta Falcons Face Off Against Seahawks’ High-Octane Offense
The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for a formidable challenge as they prepare to confront one of the most potent offenses in the NFL at 1 p.m. on Sunday. They will face the Seattle Seahawks at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where the stakes are high and the atmosphere electric.
Explosive Seahawks Offense Under Kubiak
Although Seahawks head coach Mike MacDonald is known for his defensive acumen, it’s offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak who has been the architect behind the Seahawks’ impressive scoring surge. Currently ranked as the No. 4 scoring offense, the Seahawks are averaging 29.2 points per game, a testament to Kubiak’s strategic prowess.
At the helm of this offensive juggernaut is Sam Darnold, a quarterback who has seen his share of ups and downs throughout his career. After bouncing around to four different teams in as many seasons, Darnold—once the No. 3 overall pick by the New York Jets—found stability with the Seahawks following a standout season with the Minnesota Vikings. Despite a disappointing playoff performance against the Rams that marred an otherwise successful 14-3 season, Darnold signed a lucrative three-year, $101 million contract with Seattle, which is shaping up to be a savvy investment.
Darnold’s Resurgence and Falcons’ Preparations
Darnold’s performance this season speaks volumes about his growth; he currently ranks seventh in both passing yards and passer rating, while also placing in the top ten for EPA (Expected Points Added) and EPA per play. Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, who spent four years with the Jets but missed working directly with Darnold, is well aware of the quarterback’s evolution.
“He’s played at an elite level for those guys,” Ulbrich remarked, highlighting the difficulties Darnold faced early in his career in a high-pressure environment like New York. “It’s very hard to have success as a young quarterback, period. But you go to a place that’s got such a media focus that it can be very distracting.”
Ulbrich is keenly aware of the importance of the right coaching and offensive scheme for a quarterback’s success. He believes Darnold is thriving within the Seahawks’ system. “He is becoming one of these top-flight quarterbacks,” Ulbrich stated, recalling their encounter last season in London. “He has unbelievable confidence. He’s got mobility. He’s got accuracy. He’s become a very good decision maker.”
Darnold’s Impact and Key Playmakers
Darnold’s previous encounter with the Falcons was nothing short of spectacular. While playing for the Vikings in 2024, he completed 22 of 28 passes for five touchdowns, boasting a staggering passer rating of 157.9—just shy of perfection. His top targets that day, Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson, combined for an impressive 265 yards and all five touchdowns. This season, Darnold’s primary target, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, is making a case for offensive player of the year.
“And his playmakers, especially number 11, he thrives in those moments,” Ulbrich noted about Njigba. “He’s that guy that comes back to the ball. He gets vertical. He goes with the quarterback’s movement. He complements the off-schedule stuff at an elite level.”
Injury Concerns for the Falcons’ Defense
The Falcons are facing their own challenges as they prepare to contain Darnold and the Seahawks’ dynamic offense. Defensive lineman Brandon Dorlus, who leads the team in sacks, has been ruled out, while defensive linemen Zach Harrison and Sam Roberts are on injured reserve. Additionally, defensive tackle David Onyemata is listed as questionable, alongside rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr.
With several key players potentially sidelined, the Falcons are tasked with a daunting challenge. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. EST at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and fans can expect a thrilling matchup as the Falcons attempt to rein in a red-hot Seahawks offense.
