Seattle Seahawks’ Defense Shines Amid Offensive Concerns
The Seattle Seahawks are riding high on the performance of their defense, which appears capable of propelling the team to a Super Bowl run. However, shadows loom over the offense, as it begins to reflect the dire predictions that surrounded the team during the offseason.
Sam Darnold’s Struggles Emerge
At the heart of these concerns is quarterback Sam Darnold, who faced significant challenges against the Los Angeles Rams a few weeks ago. While he managed to connect on a few deep passes to rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba the following week, Darnold has struggled to find his rhythm since. In the Seahawks’ recent 26-0 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, the defense’s dominance was overshadowed by Darnold’s inability to handle the blitz packages orchestrated by Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
Darnold’s Ranking Takes a Hit
As a result of this lackluster performance, Darnold has dropped significantly in the latest NFL quarterback power rankings from CBS Sports. He now sits at No. 11, a decline of five positions since the previous week. The early season excitement surrounding his performance has dimmed. “He’s cooled off a bit since a blazing start as the Seahawks’ gunslinger, but Seattle’s swarming defense affords some leeway,” commented analysts.
The Pressure Is On
The critical question remains: can Darnold step up when the stakes are high? While the Seahawks’ defense provides a sturdy foundation, the success of the team ultimately hinges on the quarterback’s ability to perform under pressure. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Darnold can regain his composure and guide the Seahawks toward their championship aspirations.
