Déjà Vu as Darnold's Ghosts Return in Rams Defeat
The most anticipated NFL clash of Week 11 lived up to its billing, pitting the 7-2 Los Angeles Rams against the 7-2 Seattle Seahawks in a defensive slugfest. In a nail-biting finish, the Los Angeles Rams emerged victorious, 21-19, but the story of the game was written by the opposing quarterback's disastrous performance.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, who for much of the season had performed at a near-MVP level, single-handedly derailed his team's efforts. Darnold matched his career worst by throwing four interceptions, completing 29 of 44 passes for 279 yards, with no touchdowns and a dismal passer rating of 45.5.
A History of Struggles Against the Rams
This was not the first time Darnold has endured a nightmare against this opponent. His last meeting with the Rams occurred in last season's playoffs whilst with the Minnesota Vikings, a game where he was sacked nine times and pressured on 25 occasions in a 27-9 loss.
This time, however, the Rams' strategy was different. Rather than relentless blitzing, defensive coordinator Chris Shula dropped six and seven players into coverage, confusing Darnold's reads and forcing him into critical errors. The performance eerily echoed a game from October 2019, when a miked-up Darnold was heard saying he was "seeing ghosts" on the field after another four-interception outing.
Seahawks Defence Keeps Hope Alive
Despite the quarterback's calamitous display, the Seattle Seahawks remarkably remained in contention until the final seconds. This was almost entirely due to a magnificent defensive effort that limited Rams QB Matthew Stafford to just 130 yards and a passer rating of 89.9.
The Seahawks had a chance to win in the dying moments, driving to the Los Angeles 49-yard line. However, kicker Jason Myers' 61-yard field goal attempt fell short, sealing the defeat. The two NFC West rivals are scheduled for a rematch in Seattle on 18 December, a game that is already generating significant anticipation.
