NFL27 min ago2 minute read

Darnold Takes Blame After Late Picks Cost Seahawks Against Broncos

Sam Darnold called his late turnovers unacceptable as two costly interceptions led to a 17-14 overtime loss against the Broncos.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Costly mistakes spoil Seattle comeback

Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold took full blame after two late interceptions led to a 17-14 overtime loss against the Denver Broncos.

Darnold helped the Seahawks rally from a 14-3 deficit in the fourth quarter. George Holani scored on a 1 yard touchdown run, and Darnold hit Rashid Shaheed for a two point conversion. Later, Jason Myers kicked a 34 yard field goal to send the game to overtime.

The comeback fell short due to Darnold's mistakes. He threw an interception on third and 1 late in regulation, then threw another on third and 7 in overtime. Denver turned the final takeaway into the winning field goal.

Turnovers and hits continue to mount

Darnold admitted he should have taken easier options, including throwing to Cooper Kupp under the sticks in overtime. He told reporters it was bad for him to keep turning the ball over.

Since returning from a glute injury in Week 3, Darnold has thrown seven touchdowns and seven interceptions in four games. He entered the week ranked 29th in Total QBR at 34.4. He was sacked five times and hit 17 times by Denver defenders. Head coach Mike Macdonald stated the team must protect him better and be more decisive.

The loss dropped Seattle to 3-3 on the season. They sit 2.5 games behind the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC West. Defensive tackle Leonard Williams said Darnold took ownership in the locker room after the game, adding that the team trusts him to bounce back.

Defensive effort wasted in Denver

Seattle's defense rebounded after allowing two touchdown drives in the second quarter. Macdonald's unit forced punts on seven straight Denver possessions to keep the Seahawks in the game. Five of those drives ended in three and outs.

Turnovers continue to haunt the team. Seattle has turned the ball over 12 times in six games this season, with 10 of those coming in their three losses. Opponents have scored 44 points off those takeaways.

What it means for the next game

Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks (NFL, Mon, 26 Oct): Seattle Seahawks win 53%, Kansas City Chiefs win 47%; projected score Seattle Seahawks 24, Kansas City Chiefs 21. Our safest pick: Under 51.5 points.