Not many NFL games are as exciting as seeing two division rivals who are neck-and-neck in the standings going up against each other. But, that’s exactly what happened on Thursday, December 18, when the Seattle Seahawks played one of the most important games of their season, going up against the Los Angeles Ram.
The Seahawks and Rams both had 11-3 records going into the game, and they also both topped the NFC West, adding drama to the evening. The Seahawks also already had a 99% chance of making the postseason going into the game, and the Rams were already in.
Even though both teams were shoo-ins for the playoffs before the game started, it was still a crucial one. Ahead of the showdown, Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold said he was “excited” for the challenge. “Obviously, it’s a divisional game, and playing these guys last time wasn’t my best effort,” he said, referring to the Seahawks’ loss to the Rams on November 16. “I feel like as an offense we’ve just got to continue to do what we’ve been practicing, stay on the details. But again, this team has a very good defense.”
He added, “I think I said it last time, and it held true, matching the pressure with the coverage, smart DBs, guys that know what they’re doing, and obviously a really good scheme. We’re excited about the challenge and ready to go.”
Seattle Seahawks Have a Reason to Smile
So, it’s obviously a huge night for Seattle, because not only did they win the game, but they’re now No. 1 in the NFC West, head of the Rams and 49ers by a game, boosting their probability of the No. 1 NFC seed, with a bye and home-field advantage.
Of course, the best news ever is that the Seahawks have also now officially made the playoffs. Now, they can relax, but just a little, because there’s more football to play.
To see the Seahawks make the playoffs already, in Week 16, with games left on the books, is simply thrilling. This is just the beginning of the team’s story, and the rest will unfold come January.
Mike Macdonald Praises Sam Darnold
Darnold has been a stellar quarterback for the Seahawks this season, and he’s really been the difference-maker in getting this team so far.
“I think Sam’s making really smart decisions,” Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald said earlier this week, leading up to the Rams game. “I thought he played a good game (vs. Indianapolis). Our runners have taken care of the football, which has been great.”
Macdonald added, “It’s just something we try to attack every day and I think the guys realize that when we do take care of the football, how good of a football team we are and what our record is. It’s everything involved, a constant evolution as well.”
Macdonald also said that he has a vision for the Seahawks going forward. That will come in handy over the next few weeks and into the postseason, when it arrives.
“I want Sam to play like I want our football team to play, which is decisive, shocking, and relentless,” Macdonald said. “Have it be really clear on what you want to do in the game and in that play, so he can go rip it.” Darnold did just that against the Rams.
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