Seahawks' Offense Collapses in Overtime Loss to Broncos, Sparking Bench Debate for Darnold

Key points

• Seahawks lost 17-14 in overtime to Denver, with the game decided by a 53-yard field goal after a late interception by Ja'Quan McMillian.
• Sam Darnold threw two interceptions and was sacked five times, leading to calls for his benching despite his previous playoff success.
• Seattle's offensive line struggled, with Abe Lucas and Grey Zabel underperforming, and the running game averaging only 3.9 yards per carry.
• Denver's defense recorded five sacks and three takeaways, while their offense managed only 168 total yards, a historic low for a winning team.
• The loss extends Seattle's turnover issues to 64 in 40 games under Mike Macdonald, raising concerns about ball security and coaching accountability.

Background

The Seahawks have faced ongoing offensive struggles since the departure of Kenneth Walker III and the injury of Jadarian Price, leaving them without a proven starting running back. Previous coverage highlighted Darnold's turnover issues, with seven interceptions in four games, and Macdonald's rare public criticism of his quarterback. The team's reliance on Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had 12 catches for 134 yards, has not been enough to offset systemic offensive problems.

How outlets are covering it

Field Gulls argues that Darnold's performance is 'bench-worthy' and that the offensive line and Brian Fleury's play-calling are complicit in the struggles, noting that Fleury's reduced use of max-protect calls exposes the line's weaknesses. The Denver Post emphasizes Denver's defensive dominance and Sean Payton's ability to win despite offensive inefficiency, while Seattle Sports focuses on the offensive line's inability to protect Darnold and the running game's lack of progress. All sources agree that the defense was strong but that the offense's inability to score is the primary issue, with Field Gulls being the most critical of Darnold's future and Seattle Sports more focused on the line's performance.

Why it matters

The loss puts the Seahawks in a precarious position for the playoffs, with a 3-3 record and a schedule that includes the Kansas City Chiefs next. The team's inability to convert defensive success into wins, combined with Darnold's turnover issues and the lack of a reliable running back, raises questions about the team's long-term viability and coaching decisions. The debate over benching Darnold could have significant implications for the team's morale and future performance.

What to watch

The Seahawks will face the Kansas City Chiefs next week, with the potential for Darnold to be benched if his performance does not improve. The team will also need to address the offensive line's struggles and the running game's inefficiency, with Anthony Bradford's return expected to help. Denver will face the Arizona Cardinals next, with the Broncos looking to build on their defensive success despite offensive struggles.