The Seahawks face the Washington Commanders Sunday morning, in what could be the most interesting game of the season to this point.
With Jayden Daniels out after dislocating his left elbow, it’s going to be back-up quarterback Marcus Mariota taking on the Seahawks’ lights-out, ‘Dark Side’ defense.
That being said, the former Oregon Duck is an experienced backup quarterback, with this season being his 11th season in the NFL. Last season, Mariota completed 139/227 passes, and threw for nearly 1,700 yards, filling in for when Daniels injured the same elbow.
While it’s easy to assume that the back-up quarterback will struggle with one of the NFL’s top defenses, Mariota’s experience, as well as having Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs to throw to, will make Sunday’s game interesting.
When one back-up comes in, another goes out, with Sam Darnold relieving Drew Lock of starting quarterback duties this week.
Lock excelled last week against the Arizona Cardinals, throwing 19/26 with 235 yards and three touchdowns, according to ESPN.
Meanwhile, Darnold was sidelined for last week’s game as he dealt with a glute injury from week one’s game against the New England Patriots.
While some rust is expected, Darnold is good to go, according to Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald.
The biggest question then turns from Darnold’s health and turns back to the Seahawks’ secondary. While it is reassuring the Nick Emmanwori is back, veteran safety Julian Love has been ruled out with a calf injury.
With Love out and safety Ty Okada still out with a hamstring injury, the safety position will be worth keeping an eye on.
The Seahawks look to keep their 15-game road win streak alive Sunday, as they take on the Commanders at 10 a.m. at Northwest Stadium.