Tag: Geno Smith

Pro Football Focus’ 3 highest-graded Seahawks players on offense vs. Rams

Pro Football Focus’ 3 highest-graded Seahawks players on offense vs. Rams

The Seattle Seahawks were defeated 26-20 by the Los Angeles Rams in overtime on Sunday. The offense gained 20 first downs and accumulated 424 total yards in a losing effort. Pro Football Focus had the following three Seahawks players as their highest-graded talents versus the Rams.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba | 92.5

Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba enjoyed the best game of his young career on Sunday. The sophomore wideout produced seven receptions for 180 receiving yards and two touchdowns, including a late fourth-quarter score that sent the game to overtime. Smith-Njigba was PFF’s second-highest graded receiver of the week, trailing just Zay Flowers (94.5).

Geno Smith | 76.2

Starting quarterback Geno Smith endured a rollercoaster of a performance. The veteran signal caller completed 21-of-34 passing attempts for 363 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. PFF ranked Smith highly despite him committing multiple turnovers. He was sacked seven times, and likely earned brownie points for performing behind a lackluster offensive line.

Charles Cross | 75.8

Speaking of that offensive line, franchise left tackle Charles Cross was the lone standout performer. Cross was credited with allowing just three pressures and zero sacks in pass protection. The former Mississippi State standout has been outstanding all season long. Seattle’s underwhelming offensive line requires more players of his caliber.

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Seahawks QB Geno Smith discusses highs and lows from Week 9

Seahawks QB Geno Smith discusses highs and lows from Week 9

The Seattle Seahawks suffered an incredibly demoralizing defeat at the hands of their division rivals, the Los Angeles Rams. Seattle fell 26-20 in overtime to fall into last place in the NFC West.

The game was essentially a roller coaster. Seattle’s offense went from being stuck in the mud in the first half, to scoring 13 unanswered in the final minute of the second quarter, to being ineffective for most of the second half, then a heroic drive to tie the game late… only to blow it in overtime. Seattle’s defense was stellar for most of the game, until they surrendered 83 yards in only four plays in overtime to seal the loss.

Then there’s Geno Smith. Seattle’s quarterback threw for nearly 400 yards and three touchdowns, including one to tie the game late. But he also threw three interceptions, two of which were in the fourth quarter. Even Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He had 180 yards and two scores, but a blatant drop directly contributed to one of Smith’s interceptions.

Needless to say, there were plenty of highs and lows from Week 9. I asked Smith about what, if anything, was something positive to takeaway from the defeat headed into their next game in Week 11.

“Yeah, I think you just look at the way that we fight. We compete. We’re never going to back down.” Smith stated. “I don’t believe in moral victories at all. I think you either win or lose. Today we lost. The great thing about life is you get another day, you get another chance. We’ve got eight games. That’s all I’m focused on is the next eight games. I’m taking it one by one. I’m going to do my thing. I’m going to get better.”

As bleak as things look right now, the Seahawks still have a prime opportunity to still achieve their goals. At 4-5 and in last place, they have some climbing to do, but no one in the division is better than 5-4. Seattle still has both games against the Arizona Cardinals, as well as rematches with the Rams and 49ers. Obviously, these will be challenging. But not insurmountable.

The best thing the Seahawks can do is take the Bye Week seriously and focus on what they can do to clean things up. Otherwise, if their hole gets too deep, then their goals are going to start getting further out of reach.

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Seahawks QB Geno Smith caught fire towards halftime vs. Rams

Seahawks QB Geno Smith caught fire towards halftime vs. Rams

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith endured an up-and-down performance in Sunday’s tough-to-swallow Week 9 loss to their NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams. Smith completed 21 of 34 passing attempts for 363 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions. He was also sacked on seven occasions and was under constant duress behind an offensive line that couldn’t protect him. He was fortunate to avoid additional turnovers given the amount of pressure he routinely faced.

Following a scoreless first quarter, Sean McVay’s Rams took a 3-0 lead near the conclusion of the second period. That’s when Smith caught absolute fire for the Seahawks. Smith completed 6-of-9 attempts for 125 yards and two touchdowns in the final 3:31 of the opening half, locating Tyler Lockett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba for late touchdowns.

Smith’s red-hot form awarded the Seahawks a 14-3 lead entering the break. Unfortunately, Smith, and the entire team really, crumbled during the second half. The Rams outscored Seattle 14-0 during the third quarter and began the fourth quarter on a 21-0 run by adding a defensive touchdown. Smith managed to find Smith-Njigba for his second touchdown to force overtime.

Smith and the Seahawks won the toss and embarked on a seven-play drive that stalled at the Rams’ 17-yard line. Head coach Mike Macdonald opted for a 4th-and-1 gamble instead of kicking the field goal, and the Rams defense held firm by stuffing Kenneth Walker at the line of scrimmage. Opposing quarterback Matthew Stafford quickly found DeMarcus Robinson for a game-winning 39 yard score.

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Seahawks QB Geno Smith apologizes for performance vs Rams

Seahawks QB Geno Smith apologizes for performance vs Rams

Accountability is crucial in the National Football League. It’s a trait that’s essentially a prerequisite for quarterbacks to have in abundance. Such is the case for Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Geno Smith, who had his worst performance as a starter in the Emerald City.

Smith threw three interceptions, two of which were in the red zone in the fourth quarter. One was even returned 103 yards for a go-ahead Rams touchdown. Opportunities for points were squandered, and Smith directly acknowledged his responsibility in the loss. During the postgame press conference, Smith opened his statement with an apology.

“First of all, I want to start off by apologizing to my teammates, really, and to the city, to the organization,” Smith humbly stated. “They put a lot of trust in me with my decision-making, and when they put the ball in my hands, when my teammates play the way they played today and to give us a shot to win the game, I’ve got to make sure we do. The things I did today, mistakes that I made, they affected us negatively and really cost us the game today. Me knowing myself, I know how much this is going to hurt. I’m going to step it up, though. That’s how I feel about it. I’m going to step it up.”

It says a lot about a man’s character when he is able to face the music head on and take accountability. There is no one who watched this game and came away with anything other than Smith’s poor play being the top observation. For him to come out and not hide from it speaks volumes to the kind of person Smith is.

Smith has played mostly exceptional football in Seattle. Hopefully, lessons will be learned from this game during the Seahawks’ upcoming bye week. He will face another stiff challenge on the other side in the form of the San Francisco 49ers.

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Seahawks lose 26-20 to Rams in overtime, fall to last place in NFC West

Seahawks lose 26-20 to Rams in overtime, fall to last place in NFC West

The Seattle Seahawks are now in sole possession of last place in the NFC West. After losing 26-20 in overtime to the Los Angeles Rams, and with the Arizona Cardinals defeating the Chicago Bears 29-9, the one-time division leaders are now in the basement of said division.

Seattle has now lost their fourth-straight home game, matching their longest losing streak at Lumen Field since the end of the 2020 season through 2021. What game started that particular losing streak? A home playoff loss to – you guessed it – the Los Angeles Rams.

Last season, the Seahawks lead the Rams 13-7 at halftime after a late Geno Smith touchdown pass, and were eventually shutout in a disappointing 30-13 home defeat. In a sick way, history almost repeated itself without edit.

On Sunday, the Seahawks took a 13-3 lead in the final moments of the half after a Geno Smith touchdown pass. From there, the wheels started to fall off for Seattle. The Rams scored 10 points of their own in the third to tie the game 13-13 headed into the fourth. Unfortunately, this is when the Seahawks started to implode.

Well, that’s not entirely accurate. I should say this is when quarterback Geno Smith started to implode. It was one of the worst second half performances the 12th Man has seen from a quarterback in some time. Smith got the offense down to LA’s goal line when he threw a wobbling pass into traffic in the end zone. It was picked off by Kamren Kinchens, who then returned the ball 103-yards for the go ahead touchdown.

After the pick-six, the Seahawks and Rams traded punts. At least, that’s what Los Angeles attempted to do, but their punt attempt was blocked by wide receiver Cody White, who was elevated off the practice squad this weekend. White’s block set Seattle up at the Rams’ 19-yard line.

Unfortunately, the golden opportunity was (quite literally) thrown away by Smith, who threw his third interception of the game five plays later.

However, against improbable odds, the Seahawks were given one final opportunity in regulation to tie the game, and they did make the most of it. Smith engineered an eight-play, 73 yard drive to tie the game with this beautiful throw to JSN. Seattle had life!

In overtime, the Seahawks won the coin toss and got the ball first. Seattle made it all the way to LA’s 16-yard line. On fourth and one, the Seahawks elected to go for it instead of kicking a field goal to take a lead. They were stuffed on the ensuing run. The game then shifted into sudden death overtime.

The Rams went 83 yards in only four plays, and ended the game with a 39-yard touchdown strike from Matthew Stafford to send the Seahawks into last place.

Seattle heads into their bye week seeking answers. Their 3-0 start has devolved into a 1-5 stretch and are looking up at every other team in their division… a division where they are now 0-2 in games against rivals. The Seahawks will be back in Week 11 to play the San Francisco 49ers on the road.

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Seattle Seahawks’ 5 highest-graded players in Week 8 according to PFF

Seattle Seahawks’ 5 highest-graded players in Week 8 according to PFF

The Seattle Seahawks were embarrassed by the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, losing their Week 8 contest 31-10. Though the collective team effort was lacking, certain players outperformed others. The following players were Seattle’s five highest-graded talents versus the Bills, according to Pro Football Focus’ data.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba | 73.8

Jaxon Smith-Njigba was by far Seattle’s most productive receiver in DK Metccalf’s absence. Smith-Njigba posted team-highs in targets (7), receptions (6), and receiving yards (69). He was the only veteran threat that produced, with Tyler Lockett disappointingly being held to one catch for nine yards.

Geno Smith | 72.7

Geno Smith was efficient, completing 21-of-29 passing attempts for 212 yards. He also only took one sack behind a struggling offensive line. The issue? Smith threw zero touchdowns and one interception, and he was also fortunate the team recovered his fumble.

Coby Bryant | 70.5

Versatile defensive back Coby Bryant took advantage of more playing time due to injuries in the secondary. Bryant totaled six tackles and a pass breakup for a second consecutive week. The former fourth-round pick out of Cincinnati has earned more reps in Mike Macdonald’s secondary even when everybody gets healthy.

Laken Tomlinson | 69.4

The performance of the offensive line in pass protection was a rare bright spot for Seattle on Sunday. As mentioned, Smith was only sacked on one occasion. Left guard Laken Tomlinson played a quality game. The veteran blocker tied his season-best output by allowing just one quarterback pressure and zero sacks.

Byron Murphy II | 65.7

Rookie defensive tackle Byron Murphy II has improved since returning from injury in Week 7. The former Texas Longhorn recorded one pressure and a season-best four tackles. Murphy should continue improving as he continues getting crucial reps under his belt.

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Even the Seahawks’ Geno Smith had to compliment Bills Mafia

Even the Seahawks’ Geno Smith had to compliment Bills Mafia

Bills Mafia made themselves at home at Lumen Field on Sunday.

In Week 8, the Bills topped the Seahawks on the road in a 31-10 final.

It appeared that visiting fans traveled well. Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith confirmed that was the case.

The Seahawks’ “12th Man” is often touted as one of the loudest in the NFL. However, it was Bills Mafia doing the damage.

In Smith’s words, it felt like the game was actually being played in Orchard Park because Bills fans were so loud.

Smith’s full reaction to Bills Mafia can be found below:

Seahawks suffer worst loss of season, fall 31-10 to Bills at home

Seahawks suffer worst loss of season, fall 31-10 to Bills at home

The Seattle Seahawks took the field on Sunday and hardly looked competitive against the Buffalo Bills. Once more, the Seahawks were bullied in their own home. Only this time, it was the least competitive we’ve seen from this team in quite awhile.

Seattle has lost at Lumen Field for their third-straight home game. The last time they accomplished this “feat” was during the 2021 season when they dropped their first four home games… that streak was actually five games as it started with the 2020 Wild Card loss to the Rams the year prior.

The Seahawks did narrowly avoid failing to score a touchdown at home for the first time since November 2002 when they lost 31-9 to the Broncos, but this silver lining is a cold comfort.

Right from the get-go, the Bills were clearly the better team. Buffalo marched 90 yards in 14 plays, eating over nine minutes off the clock. This was despite the team was flagged four times, but Seattle could not take advantage. In fact, the Bills were guilty of 13 penalties for 85 yards. It is immensely frustrating the Seahawks were unable to have any of those play to their advantage. But, then again, the Hawks were just as sloppy, with 11 penalties for 82 yards.

Seattle’s offense was incapable of moving the ball, recording only 233 yards on 47 plays. The worst culprit was the fact the team could not run whatsoever. Buffalo’s rush defense has been highly suspect all year, but on Sunday they prevented the Seahawks from gaining any momentum.

Quarterback Geno Smith wasn’t much better, either. Smith completed 21-of-29 passes for 212 yards, no touchdowns and an interception. Smith’s interception came at a most inopportune time. Seattle was trailing 17-3, but made it across midfield when his pass was snatched by the Bills. Seven plays later, Buffalo made it 24-3 and effectively delivered the knockout blow.

The Seahawks’ up and down season continues. They started the year with three-straight wins, then lost their next three. They blew out the Falcons on the road for their most complete victory of the year, and followed it up with their worst home loss (by margin of defeat) since their 42-7 blowout loss to the Rams in 2017.

Speaking of the Rams, that’s who the Seahawks have next. Frustratingly, Los Angeles looks like they are back to being a legitimate threat. Wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua are back, and they just took down the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football last week so they will be well rested.

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First half recap: Seahawks trail Bills 14-3

First half recap: Seahawks trail Bills 14-3

This story was updated to add new information

Once more, the Seattle Seahawks have a slow start in the first half… and at home, no less. The Seahawks are hosting the 5-2 Buffalo Bills, who look every bit the part of an AFC contender. Seattle, on the other hand, are struggling to keep pace.

The Bills are dominating the Seahawks in all major statistical categories:

  • Total yards: 224 to 96
    • Passing: 152 to 95
    • Rushing: 74 to 1
  • Time of possession: 18:07 to 11:53
  • First downs: 15 to 6
  • Total plays: 35 to 23
  • Yards per play: 6.4 to 4.2

There are only two reasons why this score isn’t uglier than it should. First off, the Bills have been penalized an astonishing 7 times for 48 yards. They cannot seem to get out of their own way. In fact, the penalties are the doing a better job of slowing Buffalo down than the Seahawks are. The second reason is because of cornerback Josh Jobe stealing a possession away from the Bills with his interception. It is the first Josh Allen has thrown all season/

The primary culprit in Seattle’s slow start is the offense, which yet again, cannot seem to get anything going in their first halves. This is routine for them, aside from two or three games this year. Geno Smith has completed 10-of-13 passes for 95 yards, while Kenneth Walker III has five yards on six carries. The inability to get the ground game going is hurting Seattle to a disproportionate degree.

Buffalo will get the ball to start the second half.

3 keys to a Bills victory vs. the Seahawks in Week 8

3 keys to a Bills victory vs. the Seahawks in Week 8

The Buffalo Bills will play the Seattle Seahawks on the road in Week 8 at Lumen Field.

The Bills (5-2) are looking to build on a dominant second half in last week’s blowout win over the Tennessee Titans. The Seahawks (4-3) are coming off of a blowout win of their own as they beat the Atlanta Falcons by 20.

It’s a close matchup between two good football teams and Las Vegas agrees. The Bills are favored by a field goal on the road. They’ll need to execute their game plan to gain their sixth win of the year.

Here are three keys to a Bills win in Week 8:

Balanced offensive attack

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The Bills’ passing game finally got on track during the second half of last week’s win. Allen had his first 300-yard passing game since Week 18 of last year. But, Seattle has been giving up chunks on the ground.

They allow 146 rushing yards per game, which ranks fourth-worst in the NFL. This is the type of defense that you must keep guessing and the Bills should get their stable of running backs going.

Control the line of scrimmage on offense

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Perhaps the best matchup to watch will be the Bills’ offensive line against Seattle’s defensive line. The Bills’ O-line ranks seventh in the NFL according to Pro Football Focus, but they will have their hands full.

The Seahawks have talent and depth across the line. They rank 13th in the NFL per PFF. Last week they sacked Kirk Cousins three times and hit him nine times as he threw two interceptions. They are capable of getting after the quarterback and making a difference. If the Bills minimize what the Seahawks can do up front, then it will open up a lot for the offense.

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The Seahawks love to air it out on offense. They have the most passing yards in the league and they’ve attempted the most passes, too. Quarterback Geno Smith has attempted the most passes of 10-plus yards downfield among all QBs. The Bills will be tested in coverage.

Safeties Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin have a lot on their plate. If they can make a few plays on the ball and limit the deep passing, then it will bode well for the Bills in this one. What makes things difficult for the Bills is that linebacker Terrel Bernard won’t be there in the middle of the field.

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