Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is feeling optimistic and ready to compete in the NFC Championship Game, despite dealing with an oblique injury. The Pro Bowl player has been limited in practice this week as part of a strategic recovery plan leading up to the crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field.
"I feel really good," Darnold expressed confidently on Friday. "I've had a great week of preparation, and everything seems to be progressing as it should. I'm looking forward to Sunday."
Darnold sustained his injury during a practice session last Thursday but managed to play through the discomfort in the divisional round, where he completed 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and a touchdown before being replaced by Drew Lock with just nine minutes left in Seattle's dominant 41-6 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
Head Coach Mike Macdonald mentioned earlier in the week that Darnold's throwing would be limited as he continues to recover. However, Macdonald later confirmed that Darnold is improving daily. "The training staff has been fantastic, ensuring that everyone, including myself, is ready. We're taking it one day at a time and focusing on what needs to be done for Sunday," Darnold added.
Fortunately for Darnold, the Seahawks will have their starting left tackle, Charles Cross, available to protect him after Cross missed the first two practices of the week due to a foot injury that kept him out of the fourth quarter against the 49ers. He participated fully in practice on Friday and is cleared to play.
On the other hand, backup left tackle Josh Jones is listed as questionable due to knee and ankle issues but returned to full participation on Friday. Meanwhile, third-string left tackle Amari Kight is doubtful due to a knee injury. Additionally, fullback Robbie Ouzts is also questionable with a neck issue, and linebacker Chazz Surratt remains sidelined on injured reserve.
In a significant roster move, the Seahawks placed running back Zach Charbonnet on injured reserve due to a season-ending knee injury incurred during the game against the 49ers. To accommodate the addition of rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo and running back George Holani, who have both been activated from IR, rookie guard Bryce Cabeldue was also placed on IR.
As for who will step up as the second running back behind Kenneth Walker III in Charbonnet's absence, Coach Macdonald refrained from naming a specific player. However, Darnold expressed confidence in George Holani, stating, "George has been preparing all season for this moment. He stepped up significantly for us early on and made impressive plays even during the preseason. We trust him not only to make plays but also to understand our system."
Darnold achieved a milestone by securing his first playoff victory in his eight-year NFL career when the Seahawks triumphed over the 49ers. While neither Darnold nor the Seahawks questioned his readiness for that game, there was some uncertainty regarding how he would perform with a newly injured oblique. He opted to start his pregame routine about 45 minutes before kickoff, practicing in the locker room as part of a modified warm-up process. He indicated that he plans to follow a similar routine on Sunday.
The Seahawks and Rams have faced each other twice this season, with Los Angeles winning a close encounter 21-19 in November, followed by Seattle's thrilling overtime victory of 38-37 at Lumen Field in Week 16. The Seahawks are currently favored by 2.5 points heading into this pivotal third match against their NFC West rivals.
Historically, the Seahawks have an impressive record of 11 wins and just one loss in home playoff games since 2005, with the only defeat occurring against the Rams during the 2020 COVID-19 season when Lumen Field was devoid of fans. Until last Saturday, it had been several years since Seattle hosted a playoff game with fans present, adding to the excitement.
"The atmosphere on Sunday is going to be amazing," Darnold remarked. "I can't imagine it getting better than last week, but the 12s always find a way to elevate our game. We're thrilled to play for them."
But here's where it gets controversial: Can Darnold and the Seahawks maintain their momentum against a formidable Rams team? Will the intense atmosphere at Lumen Field provide them with the edge they need? Join the conversation—do you believe the Seahawks can clinch another playoff victory, or do you think the Rams will come out on top this time? Share your thoughts in the comments!
