Seattle Seahawks surge past Falcons with explosive second half
The Seattle Seahawks (10-3) left Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on a high note after a commanding 37-9 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. This win keeps Seattle firmly in the mix for the coveted No. 1 seed in the NFC and positions them well in their quest to claim the NFC West Division title for the first time since 2020.
A Rocky Start
Despite the impressive final score, the Seahawks’ journey to victory was anything but smooth. The first half revealed a sluggish offense that struggled to find its rhythm. Over the initial five drives, Seattle managed a mere 116 total yards, a statistic that highlighted the Falcons’ defensive pressure. Quarterback Sam Darnold faced significant challenges, including an interception that added to the woes of a struggling offensive line.
Left tackle Charles Cross bore the brunt of that pressure, allowing two sacks, while the Falcons’ relentless blitzing resulted in five tackles for loss and two quarterback hits. Darnold’s performance reflected his discomfort; he completed only 5 of 11 passes for 37 yards and an interception during those first four drives. However, as the half drew to a close, Darnold found a bit of footing, going 4-for-4 for 28 yards, which set up a game-tying field goal that brought the score to 6-6 at halftime.
The Turning Point
The Seahawks’ fortunes changed dramatically after the break, ignited by a spectacular 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Rashid Shaheed. This electrifying play marked the beginning of a second half that saw Seattle explode for 36 points, effectively dismantling the Falcons’ defense. The spark created by Shaheed’s return was palpable, energizing both the team and the fans who had been left anxious by the first-half performance.
In the postgame locker room, tight end A.J. Barner reflected on the team’s need for improvement. He stated, “It’s not acceptable to start the way we did. It has to be better.” His words encapsulated the mixed emotions of the day—while the second half was a showcase of potential, the first half served as a reminder of the work that remains.
Looking Ahead
With two halves of stark contrast, the Seahawks will need to build on their explosive second-half performance as they continue their campaign toward the playoffs. The victory not only boosts their confidence but also reinforces their position in a competitive NFC landscape. As they prepare for their next challenge, the message is clear: consistency is key, and the team is determined to find that balance moving forward.
