Seahawks’ Decline
The once-potent partnership of Sam Darnold and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, which ignited the Seahawks’ offense earlier this season, feels like a distant memory. Just two months ago, this dynamic duo was wreaking havoc on opposing defenses, consistently connecting for long touchdowns and substantial gains. However, the last seven games have revealed a stark decline in their performance, prompting questions about the team’s offensive capabilities.
Dramatic Shift in Performance
At the season’s outset, Darnold was thriving, averaging an impressive 9.9 yards per pass attempt. Smith-Njigba, not to be outdone, was making significant strides, racking up an average of 15.9 yards per reception. Fast forward to the last seven games, and the statistics paint a troubling picture. Darnold’s average has plummeted to just 7.1 yards per attempt, while Smith-Njigba has seen his average dip to 13.4 yards per catch.
This decline in explosive plays has not gone unnoticed. Opponents have adapted, learning how to neutralize the Seahawks’ offensive threats. While this adjustment has inadvertently opened up opportunities for the running game, it has come at a cost—Darnold’s struggles have become increasingly evident.
Struggles Under Pressure
In this recent stretch, Darnold’s completion rate has dropped to 63.2 percent, a concerning figure for a quarterback of his caliber. He has accumulated 1,588 passing yards, accompanied by eight touchdowns and an equal number of interceptions. The turnover issues are particularly alarming, as he has given the ball away a staggering 10 times during this period, contributing to an NFL-high total of 20 giveaways this season.
As the Seahawks grapple with their offensive identity, the once-promising synergy between Darnold and Smith-Njigba has been overshadowed by their recent slump. The team now faces the challenge of revitalizing their passing game as they look to regain their early-season form and remain competitive in the league.
