Sam Darnold's Return Boosts Seattle Seahawks' Momentum Against Commanders
The Seahawks aim to continue their hot start as quarterback Sam Darnold is set to return from a brief injury, facing an 0-2 Washington Commanders team.
The Seattle Seahawks are poised to welcome back starting quarterback Sam Darnold for their Week 3 matchup against the Washington Commanders. The Seahawks, who have started the season 2-0, managed to secure a victory in their opener despite losing Darnold early to a glute injury, with backup Drew Lock leading the team to a win.
Now, with Darnold recovered and ready to play, Seattle faces a Commanders team that has struggled out of the gate, holding an 0-2 record. Washington's defense has allowed significant yardage and scoring, including a 37-20 loss to the Dallas Cowboys where quarterback Dak Prescott threw for four touchdowns and CeeDee Lamb recorded 153 receiving yards and two scores.
While Darnold missed only one game, his absence did not derail the Seahawks' offense in their Week 2 contest against the Arizona Cardinals. Drew Lock led Seattle to a 31-7 victory, further demonstrating the team's depth. However, Darnold's return is expected to solidify the offense as they face a Commanders team that has been unable to find its footing.
Compounding Washington's struggles, starting quarterback Jayden Daniels will miss the game due to a dislocated elbow sustained in their loss to Dallas. This leaves Marcus Mariota as the likely starter for the Commanders, facing a Seahawks defense that has proven effective early in the season.
The Seahawks are favored by 7 points in this matchup. Sports betting writer Dylan Svoboda, in his third season with the Post’s NFL Bettor’s Guide, predicts a win for the Seahawks, citing Darnold's return and the Commanders' early-season difficulties. The Seahawks are aiming to build on their early momentum against a Washington team still searching for its first win.