Overview
- Flores publicly said, “we’ll blitz him this week,” noting a close rapport with Darnold from their time in Minnesota.
- Darnold helped Seattle to an 8-3 start and is on pace for career highs in completion rate and passer rating after a 14-win year with the Vikings in 2024.
- Per Pro Football Focus, Darnold has been efficient against the blitz this season yet has thrown five of his 10 interceptions when blitzed, with a 10.4% pressure-to-sack rate.
- The Vikings could be without starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is in concussion protocol, positioning undrafted rookie Max Brosmer as the likely starter if McCarthy sits.
- With Minnesota at 4-7 and the offense struggling, reporting frames the road game in Seattle as a must-win with the defense expected to carry a blitz-heavy load under Flores.