NFL Coach Criticizes Darnold’s Struggles: ‘Sam Will Face This for Life’
The Seattle Seahawks’ recent loss to the Los Angeles Rams has shed light on the challenges facing quarterback Sam Darnold. An experienced NFL coach emphasized the ongoing nature of Darnold’s struggles, indicating that these issues may persist throughout his career.
Coaching Insights on Darnold’s Performance
According to a coach who spoke with The Athletic’s Mike Sando, “Sam is just going to have that in him for life.” The coach noted that while Darnold can demonstrate skill and make impressive plays, he is also prone to critical mistakes during high-stakes moments. These tendencies raise concerns for teams that aspire to compete in the playoffs.
Game Breakdown
In the recent match, Darnold completed 29 of 44 passes, accumulating 279 yards but throwing four interceptions. This performance echoed the Seahawks’ earlier struggles against the Minnesota Vikings and Rams during the 2024 season.
- Key Stats:
- Completions: 29
- Attempts: 44
- Passing Yards: 279
- Touchdowns: 0
- Interceptions: 4
One of Darnold’s turnovers was particularly detrimental. Under pressure, he attempted a risky jump throw intended for wide receiver Elijah Arroyo. This decision was labeled as “complete panic” by a different coach, reflecting concerns about Darnold’s judgment under duress.
Defensive Pressures and Darnold’s Response
Rams safety Kam Kinchens commented on Darnold’s reaction to defensive pressure. He observed that Darnold tends to rush his throws when feeling trapped, which leads to additional mistakes. “He’s just trying to get the ball out of his hands,” Kinchens stated, indicating that this behavior creates opportunities for defenders.
Missed Opportunities and Future Implications
Despite the four interceptions, Seattle came close to winning. Jason Myers missed a 61-yard field goal attempt as time expired, leaving the Seahawks with a sense of frustration but also a glimpse of optimism. If Darnold can mitigate his errors, the Seahawks may find success when it counts most.
The team must now navigate these challenges as they aim for a playoff berth. The hope is that Darnold can learn from this experience and avoid repeating past mistakes in crucial future games.
