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Macdonald Sticks With Sam Darnold After Overtime Interception Loss

Macdonald's pledge to keep Darnold as starter places the burden on Seattle to fix core offensive problems before its next primetime game.

Overview

  • The Seahawks lost 17-14 in overtime to the Denver Broncos after Sam Darnold threw an overtime interception that set up Wil Lutz’s game-winning field goal.
  • Darnold now leads the league with seven interceptions and has been part of a Seahawks offense that has committed 12 turnovers through six games.
  • Coach Mike Macdonald said he will not bench Darnold and argued the team can find operational fixes to protect the quarterback and reduce turnovers.
  • Seattle’s offensive issues include poor pass protection—Darnold was sacked five times and hit 17 times in Denver—plus a weakened running game due to injuries and the recent loss of key backs; backup Drew Lock has performed efficiently in limited starts but is not being installed as the starter.
  • The Seahawks’ defense remains strong, holding Denver to 168 total yards, but opponents have scored heavily off Seattle turnovers; the team has an extended bye before facing the Kansas City Chiefs on Oct. 25, making the break a critical window for repairs and injury evaluations.