In a daunting matchup against one of the NFL’s best and most well-rounded teams, the Seattle Seahawks ventured to Baltimore with an understanding that they faced a formidable test. While the season is far from over, the Seahawks’ performance in this game exposed areas that demand improvement, as they grappled with both offensive and defensive struggles. The home team, the Baltimore Ravens, emerged victorious with a convincing 37-3 win. Here are five rapid reactions to Sunday’s challenging loss:
- A Trying Day for the Seahawks Offense
Just a week ago, the Seahawks squared off against a top-notch defense in the AFC North and managed to put together a productive performance. In that game against the Cleveland Browns, they scored 17 first-half points and overcame some obstacles to secure a victory. However, facing another formidable AFC North defense in the Ravens, the Seahawks stumbled. The offense got off to a sluggish start and never found its rhythm, making life exceptionally tough for Geno Smith and the rest of the unit. Seattle’s opening drive resulted in a three-and-out, marking the start of a series of punt endings, broken only by a Geno Smith interception. While a 50-yard completion to DK Metcalf in the late first half set up a field goal, the Seahawks struggled to make a significant impact, with the Ravens maintaining a robust defense throughout the game. The Seahawks managed only three points, 151 total yards, and converted just one of 12 third-down attempts.
- Seahawks’ Typically Strong Run Defense Falls Short
One of the notable improvements in the Seahawks’ 2023 season was their sturdy run defense. Through seven games, Seattle’s defense held opponents to an average of just 3.6 yards per carry, ranking third-lowest in the NFL. However, the Ravens’ rushing attack posed a significant challenge that the Seahawks struggled to contain. Baltimore’s ground game amassed a total of 298 yards on 41 carries, averaging an impressive 7.3 yards per carry.
- Turnovers Remain a Concern
Earlier in the season, the Seahawks exhibited exceptional ball security, with just one turnover through four games, the fewest in the NFL at that time. However, in recent weeks, the offense, particularly Geno Smith, has grappled with turnovers. Smith’s performance included an interception and a fumble on one of Baltimore’s four sacks. With these two turnovers, the Seahawks have now committed multiple turnovers in four consecutive games, marking the first such streak since the 2013 season when they had four straight games with two or more turnovers.
- Boye Mafe’s Impressive Sack Streak
In an otherwise challenging game, one bright spot for the Seahawks came from defensive end Boye Mafe, who continues to shine this season. Mafe recorded a crucial sack where he not only brought down the quarterback but also forced a fumble and recovered the ball. This sack marked Mafe’s sixth of the season, with one sack in each of the last six games. Notably, Mafe’s performance tied a franchise record held by Michael Sinclair, who achieved a six-game streak with at least one sack during the 1997 and 1998 seasons.
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Strong Showing
Despite a difficult day for the Seahawks, rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba showcased his potential with an encouraging performance. Smith-Njigba hauled in six passes for 63 yards, setting career highs and leading the team in both receptions and receiving yards during the game.
While Sunday’s loss to the Ravens was undoubtedly a tough one for the Seattle Seahawks, there is ample season left for them to regroup and learn from this experience. The road ahead offers opportunities for improvement and growth.
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