Seattle Seahawks’ Jaxon Smith-Njigba Faces Setback in Record Pursuit Following Vikings’ Defensive Masterclass
The Seattle Seahawks, currently boasting a 9-3 record, encountered one of their most challenging offensive outings of the season during their home game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores orchestrated a masterful game plan that left the Seahawks’ offensive line in disarray, continually pressuring quarterback Sam Darnold. The result was a definitive 26-0 victory for the Seahawks, propelled by their exceptional defensive performance and a late surge in their rushing offense.
Struggles for Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, commonly known as JSN, faced a tough day on the field, experiencing his least productive game of the season. This setback was not due to any shortcomings on his part but rather a testament to the formidable Vikings secondary, which effectively neutralized his routes. Coupled with inconsistent blocking from the offensive line, JSN found himself unable to create separation in time for Darnold to deliver the throw. He managed just two receptions on four targets for a mere 23 yards.
This outing marked only the fourth time this season that JSN has fallen short of 100 receiving yards in a game, and it was the first occasion under 79 yards. Despite this, his season totals remain impressive. Through 12 games, he has accumulated 82 receptions for a league-leading 1,336 yards and seven touchdowns. Notably, he holds a 194-yard advantage over Dallas Cowboys’ wide receiver George Pickens, who has recorded 1,142 receiving yards.
Impact on Record Chase
However, the implications of JSN’s 23-yard performance extend beyond a single game. His chase for the league’s all-time single-season receiving yards record, currently held by Pro Football Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson at 1,964 yards set in 2012, has taken a significant hit. JSN now finds himself 629 yards away from surpassing Johnson’s benchmark, with just five games remaining in the regular season.
To eclipse this record, JSN will need to average approximately 126 receiving yards over the Seahawks’ remaining matchups. If he aims to match Johnson’s record-setting pace, he would need to increase that average to an ambitious 158 yards per game over the next four contests. The Seahawks’ upcoming opponents include the Atlanta Falcons, Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Rams, and Carolina Panthers—each representing a critical opportunity for JSN to regain momentum in his record pursuit.
Looking Ahead
The Seahawks are not only eyeing personal milestones for JSN but also have their sights set on clinching their first NFC West Divisional title since the 2020 season, along with a serious Super Bowl run. Achieving league-wide recognition through JSN’s potential lead in single-season receiving yards would be a valuable asset to the team as they strive for success.
While JSN’s performance against the Vikings may not have bolstered his record chase, it certainly highlights the need for improvement along the offensive line. A more solid front will be essential to rejuvenate Seattle’s passing game and foster overall team success as the season progresses.
