In a notable matchup, the Seattle Seahawks secured a 20-12 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking their fourth road win of the season. This win underscores the team’s strong performance under the leadership of coach Mike Macdonald.
Key Performers: Darnold and Smith-Njigba Shine
Quarterback Sam Darnold played a pivotal role in the victory. He threw for 295 yards, showcasing his ability to connect with various receivers. Darnold’s performance included a long 61-yard touchdown pass to tight end AJ Barner, contributing significantly to the team’s offense.
Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba also excelled, catching eight passes for 161 yards. His impressive yardage led the league, while Darnold completed 70.8% of his passes, solidifying their status as a formidable duo. Darnold’s game management was crucial, as he avoided turnovers against a team known for its defensive prowess.
Seahawks’ Offensive Strategy
- Darnold delivered six explosive passes (16 yards or more).
- The Seahawks managed to produce a top-10 offense by EPA per play despite a struggling run game.
- The team recorded no turnovers against the Jaguars, showcasing their disciplined offensive play.
Defensive Resurgence
The Seahawks’ defense was equally impressive, recording seven sacks against Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence. DeMarcus Lawrence, back from injury, led the charge with two sacks.
- The Seahawks averaged 17 quarterback hits against Lawrence during the game.
- Jacksonville’s offense struggled, converting only 1 out of 7 third downs in the second half.
Handling Defensive Adjustments
Initially, the Seahawks faced challenges communicating in the secondary, particularly after missing key players due to injuries. However, they corrected their approach, shifting to tighter man coverage which proved effective.
As a result, Jacksonville’s running backs managed merely 43 yards on 15 attempts, while the Seahawks demonstrated resilience under pressure to limit scoring opportunities for their opponents.
Looking Ahead
The Seahawks remain 10-1 in road games under coach Macdonald, continuing to perform strongly away from home. They will aim to maintain this winning momentum as they prepare to face the Houston Texans in Week 7 on “Monday Night Football.”
As Darnold and Smith-Njigba continue to build on their successes, their synergy could be key in helping the Seahawks strive for further victories this season.
