Seahawks Make Clear Statement with Dominant Win Over Commanders
In a commanding road performance, the Seattle Seahawks delivered a 38–14 rout of the Washington Commanders at Landover, Maryland. The victory underscored Seattle’s rising status while leaving Washington facing a worrying turn in its season.
1. Sam Darnold’s resurgence is no fluke
Quarterback Sam Darnold opened the game in unreal fashion, completing his first 17 passes and finishing the half 16-of-16 for 282 yards and four touchdowns, all without an interception.
With a stat line that now stands at 16 touchdowns to 5 interceptions on the season, Seattle’s decision to move on from Geno Smith and invest a large contract in Darnold is increasingly looking justified.
The offense operated at high efficiency, despite the absence of some key targets, highlighting the adaptability of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and the roster.
2. Washington’s season hangs in the balance after Daniels injury
For the Commanders, the result was disastrous, not just the loss, but the injury to young quarterback Jayden Daniels that threatens their momentum. Daniels left in the fourth quarter after suffering a left elbow injury while being sacked; an MRI is expected and an indefinite sidelining looms.
Washington now stands at 3–6, already worse than last season’s total of losses (they finished 12–5 in 2024). With injuries and inconsistent play mounting, the team faces a daunting road just to contend again.
3. Jaxon Smith-Njigba eyeing historic numbers
Receiver Jaxon Smith‑Njigba continued his outstanding season with eight catches for 129 yards. At 948 yards with eight games played, he remains on pace to challenge the single-season receiving yards record (currently 1,964).
His consistency, having recorded at least 79 yards in every game this season, makes him a compelling candidate to break through the 2,000-yard threshold. Seattle’s passing game is clearly humming.
4. Rookie Tory Horton is more than a sleeper pick
Fifth-round rookie wideout Tory Horton again showed up, hauling in two touchdown catches and bringing his season total to five. For a player drafted late, his impact is significant.
Seattle’s success with later-round picks (e.g., Riq Woolen in 2022, Tyrice Knight more recently) builds depth and value, Horton now joins that narrative.
What’s next?
Seattle will now face the Arizona Cardinals next week, a matchup they should be favoured in after this performance. Then awaits a pivotal pair of divisional showdowns with the Los Angeles Rams (Week 11 away, Week 16 home). If the Seahawks sweep those and hold form, they’ll be strong contenders in the NFC West.
On the flip side, Washington must regroup quickly. With Daniels likely sidelined and injuries piling up, realistic hopes for 2025 may now shift toward building for 2026 rather than chasing the postseason.
Bottom line: The Seahawks didn’t just win, they made a statement. Seattle’s offense was elite, their depth showing, and their quarterback stepping into his role with authority. The Commanders, meanwhile, face a steep climb to salvage the year amidst mounting setbacks.