Sam Darnold Surprises NFL with Impressive Seahawks Debut Amid Run-Heavy Scheme
Sam Darnold’s Performance
Sam Darnold is making headlines in his inaugural season with the Seattle Seahawks, exceeding expectations as the team’s starting quarterback. With a record of 4-2 after the first six games, Darnold’s performance is proving crucial for Seattle’s playoff aspirations.
Analyst Brady Henderson has highlighted Darnold’s impressive ability to advance the ball, even while playing in a predominantly run-focused offense. “Darnold is a hair behind Daniel Jones and Dak Prescott for third in QBR,” Henderson noted, emphasizing that Darnold’s success this season is not merely a byproduct of coaching but a testament to his skill.
Leading the league in both air yards per attempt (9.0) and yards per attempt (9.6), Darnold is showcasing his proficiency in pushing the ball downfield. He also boasts the sixth-lowest sack rate in the league at 4.1%. This indicates a knack for avoiding pressure while effectively executing plays. Notably, Darnold has demonstrated an ability to make accurate throws while on the run, which could be emerging as one of his standout skills.
Navigating Challenges
While Darnold has played a pivotal role in guiding the Seahawks to victories, his performance has not been without its challenges. The two losses Seattle has suffered this season can largely be traced back to critical mistakes made by Darnold in high-pressure situations.
In both defeats, a turnover from Darnold in the closing minutes deprived the Seahawks of potential game-winning opportunities. For instance, in Week 1, he led the team to the 49ers’ 9-yard line, only to be undone by a strip sack from Nick Bosa, following a breakdown in protection by right tackle Abraham Lucas. Similarly, in Week 5, a rushed throw intended to be a throwaway inadvertently resulted in an interception, allowing Tampa Bay to march downfield for a game-winning field goal. Darnold later acknowledged that a change in protection could have mitigated the pressure he faced.
Future Outlook
Darnold’s dual role as both a catalyst for Seattle’s success and a source of frustration is evident. As he continues to refine his decision-making and minimize errors, the Seahawks’ chances for victory will only grow stronger. With Darnold at the helm, Seattle remains well-positioned to navigate the remainder of the season and aim for a playoff spot.
