Observations and Insights from the Seahawks' Week 16 Triumph Over the Titans
NASHVILLE In a déjà vu moment from the previous week, the Seahawks once again found themselves relying on late-game heroics to clinch a win and sustain their playoff aspirations. This time, after Drew Lock orchestrated a comeback last week, Geno Smith, returning from a two-game absence, led the offense in a game-winning drive, sealing a 20-17 victory over the Titans.
With this triumph, the Seahawks now boast an 8-7 record, and their playoff destiny is in their own hands, thanks to Detroit's win over Minnesota.
Here are five quick reactions to the Seahawks' triumph over the Titans on Christmas Eve:
1. Geno Smith and the offense ignited in the second half.
Against a formidable Titans defense, the Seahawks struggled to gain momentum early on, punting three times in the first half and settling for one field goal. Despite a promising third-quarter drive stalling in the red zone, Geno Smith, returning after a two-game absence, spearheaded a remarkable 96-yard touchdown drive late in the game. This led to a go-ahead 11-yard touchdown pass to DK Metcalf. Following the Titans' response with a touchdown of their own, Smith orchestrated a 14-play, 75-yard touchdown drive, culminating in a 5-yard touchdown pass to Colby Parkinson. Smith's final drive featured a 7-for-10 performance, covering 57 yards and a crucial 18-yard completion to Jaxon Smith-Njigba on third-and-14.2. The receiving trio of DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba delivered in pivotal moments.
The addition of Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the first round strengthened the Seahawks' receiving trio, and all three—DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Smith-Njigba—made significant contributions late in the game. Lockett led with eight catches for 81 yards, including three receptions on the final drive. Metcalf showcased a spectacular touchdown drive and hurdled a defender for a field goal setup in the first half, finishing with 56 yards on six catches. Smith-Njigba contributed 61 yards on six catches, including a 20-yarder that kick-started the 96-yard drive and an 18-yard catch on the game-winning drive's third-and-14.
3. DK Metcalf impressed in front of special guests.
DK Metcalf, who began taking online American Sign Language courses earlier in the season, incorporated sign language celebrations after touchdowns. Metcalf's ASL teacher, Darrell Utley, attended the game with his family after Metcalf invited them. Metcalf delivered impactful plays, including a 26-yard catch and run for Seattle's first score, a spectacular 11-yard touchdown grab, and drawing a pass interference penalty on the final drive that set up the game-winning score.
4. Boye Mafe and the pass rush made a significant impact.
Second-year outside linebacker Boye Mafe, who had a franchise-record seven-game sack streak earlier in the season, returned to the sack column with two sacks on Sunday. The defense amassed six sacks in total, with Mafe's second sack forcing the Titans to use their final timeout on the decisive drive. Dre'Mont Jones added another sack, essentially sealing the victory.
5. Bobby Wagner had a standout performance.
In his 12th season, Bobby Wagner continued to excel, leading Seattle's defense with 11 tackles, bringing his season total to 154. Wagner also contributed a sack and a tackle for loss, showcasing his enduring impact on the team.
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