Sam Darnold Silences Ryan Clark with Stellar Playoff Performance
Sam Darnold, the quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, recently faced skepticism surrounding his performance ahead of the Divisional Round playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. Analyst Ryan Clark suggested that Darnold would have a “built-in excuse” if he did not perform well due to a recent oblique injury. However, Darnold demonstrated resilience and skill during the game, leading his team to a decisive 41-6 victory.
Stellar Performance in the Playoffs
Darnold completed 12 of 17 passes, amassing 124 yards. He notably threw one touchdown pass without a single turnover. His efficiency showcased his ability to manage the game as per offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s strategy.
Key Highlights
- Completion Rate: 70.6% (12 of 17)
- Total Passing Yards: 124
- Touchdowns: 1
- Turnovers: 0
One standout moment was a beautiful touchdown pass to wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Darnold rolled to his left under pressure and placed the ball perfectly in the end zone, allowing Smith-Njigba to drag his feet just before stepping out of bounds.
Looking Ahead: NFC Championship Game
With this performance, Darnold and the Seahawks have advanced to the NFC Championship game. They will face either the Chicago Bears or the Los Angeles Rams. Expectations for Darnold’s performance will increase as the stakes rise in the playoffs.
Many might still question Darnold’s ability to lead a team in critical moments. However, his recent showing indicates he might be ready for a deep playoff run, possibly aiming for the Super Bowl. The Seattle Seahawks cannot be underestimated at this stage.
