SEATTLE — Following a disappointing defeat to the Green Bay Packers, Geno Smith and the Seattle Seahawks received some positive updates. Coach Mike Macdonald reported on Monday that the results from Smith’s right knee examination showed no serious damage, expressing optimism regarding the veteran quarterback’s chance to play in the upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings.
“We’re fortunate,” Macdonald remarked. “There were many positive signs from the tests. Geno’s a warrior, working hard in the gym every morning. Although he’s feeling some discomfort, he’s incredibly tough. If all goes well, we hope to see him practicing this week, and I’m optimistic he’ll be prepared for the game.”
Smith’s potential return would mark a notable turnaround for the Seahawks, who, after enjoying a four-game winning streak and holding the top spot in the NFC West, faced a disappointing 30-13 loss to the Packers. This defeat caused Seattle to share the divisional lead with the Los Angeles Rams, and the home crowd, known as the “12s,” found their atmosphere diminished, with Packers supporters outcheering them.
The Seahawks fell victim to a dominating Green Bay defense, with Smith and backup Sam Howell being sacked seven times. Consequently, the Seattle defense, which had been performing strongly during their winning streak, struggled to contain the Packers’ offense.
Alongside Smith, center Olu Oluwatimi was also injured, adding more challenges for Macdonald as the team navigates the last few games of the season. “We have to credit Green Bay. They simply outcoached us. I take responsibility for our inadequate game plan across all three phases. I didn’t ensure we played at our best or employed the strategies that had previously led to our victories,” he commented.
In terms of special teams, the Seahawks saw solid performances. Michael Dickson averaged 46.5 yards on six punts, while Jason Myers successfully converted field goals from 48 and 45 yards.
However, the offensive line suffered due to Oluwatimi’s injury, as rookie Jalen Sundell stepped in, contributing to a rough outing for the unit. The Seahawks surrendered seven sacks, while the Packers registered 12 quarterback hits and 10 tackles for loss. Additionally, Seattle’s running game faltered just a week after Zach Charbonnet had a standout performance, rushing for a season-high 134 yards.
Charbonnet did manage to score a 24-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, collecting a total of 54 yards on eight carries. He has stepped up efficiently in the absence of the injured Kenneth Walker III.
On the other hand, Howell, making his first significant appearance, struggled, completing only 5 of 14 passes for a mere 24 yards and throwing an interception in the fourth quarter that allowed the Packers to secure their win. His lackluster performance may dampen the frustrations of fans who had been critical of Smith’s 13 interceptions this season.
“Ultimately, I have to improve,” Howell stated. “My responsibility is to be ready to contribute to the team and help secure a win, and I fell short today. I’ll review the game footage and learn from this experience.”
Injury updates revealed that Smith exited the game during the third quarter after being hit in the legs by Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper. Oluwatimi is considered day-to-day with quad and knee concerns.
Key statistics from the game included the Packers’ seven sacks, four of which were against Howell and three against Smith, while the Seahawks managed zero sacks against Jordan Love.
Looking ahead, the Seahawks will face another formidable opponent in the Minnesota Vikings, after previously losing to both the Packers and the Detroit Lions.
