The Seattle Seahawks’ choice of Sam Darnold over Geno Smith is increasingly being validated, as the former USC standout continues to impress while Smith struggles with the Las Vegas Raiders. The contrast in their performances is stark, with analysts suggesting that Smith may need to be benched to salvage his season.
Darnold’s Resurgence
While Darnold has encountered some bumps in the road, with two notable mistakes this season, his overall play has been commendable. Darnold’s recent outing showcased his potential, highlighted by an impressive 341-yard game against the opposing defense, where he completed 82% of his passes and tossed four touchdowns. This level of performance has sparked conversations among experts about Darnold being on track for one of the best seasons among NFL quarterbacks.
The Seahawks currently stand at 3-2, buoyed by Darnold’s efforts as they prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars. This success further underlines general manager John Schneider’s decision to favor Darnold over Smith—a decision that seems increasingly astute as the season progresses.
Smith’s Struggles with the Raiders
Conversely, Geno Smith’s time with the Raiders has been marred by inconsistency and frustration. With the Raiders languishing at 1-4, Smith’s performance has drawn sharp criticism. Last week, he threw two interceptions in a devastating 40-6 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, bringing his season total to a league-high nine interceptions. The mounting errors have left Smith visibly distraught, with images of him throwing his helmet on the bench encapsulating his struggles.
As Smith grapples with these challenges, the pressure is intensifying. His $75 million contract raises expectations, and his inability to connect with his supporting cast and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has led to calls for a change. Bleacher Report has identified Smith as the player under the most pressure in the league, suggesting that the Raiders may need to explore alternatives, including potentially benching him for other options like Kenny Pickett or looking into the trade market.
The Future for Both Quarterbacks
The trajectory of both quarterbacks is poised for further scrutiny as the season unfolds. Darnold’s ascendance with the Seahawks paints a picture of redemption, while Smith’s struggles raise questions about his future in Las Vegas. As the Seahawks prepare for their upcoming matchup, the disparity in their paths serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the ever-present pressure that comes with the position of quarterback.
With each passing week, the narrative surrounding both players continues to evolve, making it clear that Darnold’s resurgence is a story of second chances, while Smith’s journey is fraught with challenges that could define his career moving forward.
