Drew Lock to Start for Seahawks Against Raiders

Lock gets the nod

Drew Lock will take the field as the starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders. Head coach Mike Macdonald announced the decision Monday during an appearance on Seattle Sports 710.

The move allows regular starter Sam Darnold more time to heal from his recent injuries. Darnold has been sidelined after sustaining a quad injury and a cracked rib in a Week 8 Monday night loss to the Chicago Bears. By holding Darnold out for one more week, the team gives him additional recovery time right before Seattle enters its Week 11 bye week.

Managing an oblique issue

Lock is dealing with a health concern of his own. He suffered an oblique injury in the third quarter of Sunday's 17-3 victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Despite the setback, Lock stated after the game that he was confident he would be able to play against Las Vegas if called upon.

Macdonald addressed the situation on Monday. He indicated that Lock's oblique injury appears to be something the medical staff and team can manage as they practice throughout the week.

Proven results under center

Seattle's offensive output has not suffered when Lock has stepped in for Darnold, who has experienced multiple injuries this season. In the recent 17-3 win against Arizona, Lock completed 19 of 28 passing attempts for 175 yards and one touchdown.

Lock has now filled in for Darnold for two full games and most of a third game this year. Across those appearances, Lock has not turned the ball over a single time. Seattle has earned a victory in all three of those contests.

What it means for the next game

Seattle Seahawks at Las Vegas Raiders (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): Las Vegas Raiders win 39%, Seattle Seahawks win 61%; projected score Las Vegas Raiders 19, Seattle Seahawks 24. Our safest pick: Seahawks +4.