In a dramatic showdown at Lumen Field on December 14, 2023, the Seattle Seahawks overcame a 16-point deficit to secure a thrilling 38-37 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Rams. Quarterback Sam Darnold played a pivotal role in the comeback, rallying his team after throwing two interceptions that had initially put the Seahawks in a precarious position.
The game was critical for both teams, each holding an 11-3 record and vying for the lead in the NFC West. Seattle found themselves trailing 30-14 midway through the fourth quarter, with the Rams seemingly poised to sweep the season series. However, Darnold and the Seahawks displayed remarkable resilience, scoring two touchdowns to force overtime.
Darnold described the win as “crazy,” reflecting the sense of disbelief that enveloped the team as they clinched a playoff berth. “I didn’t think we played our best football… but at the end of the day, we won,” he said, emphasizing the hard work and determination of his teammates.
The comeback began with a 58-yard punt return touchdown by Rashid Shaheed, which ignited Seattle’s momentum. Darnold then connected with tight end AJ Barner for a 26-yard touchdown pass, bringing the Seahawks within striking distance. In overtime, he found Jaxon Smith-Njigba for another touchdown, followed by a crucial two-point conversion to Eric Saubert, sealing the victory.
Darnold completed 22 of 34 passes for 270 yards, along with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Smith-Njigba, the NFL’s leading receiver, caught eight passes for 96 yards and a touchdown. Running back Kenneth Walker III added 100 rushing yards, including a 55-yard touchdown run that contributed significantly to Seattle’s offensive effort.
Despite the offensive fireworks, Seattle’s defense struggled, allowing 581 yards and failing to contain Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, who threw for 332 yards and three touchdowns. The Seahawks’ defensive coordinator Macdonald acknowledged that the unit did not perform up to expectations but praised their ability to regroup in critical moments.
Seattle’s defense faced additional challenges, losing three defensive backs in the fourth quarter. Linebacker Ernest Jones IV noted that miscommunications led to deep completions by the Rams but highlighted the team’s ability to adjust and force three consecutive three-and-outs late in the game.
The Seahawks’ victory is particularly noteworthy as they had never won a game in which they trailed by 16 points or more in the fourth quarter, according to ESPN Research. This victory not only places them at the top of the NFC West standings but also enhances their pursuit of the No. 1 seed in the conference.
Following the game, Coach Macdonald expressed confidence in Darnold’s leadership and competitive spirit. “He’s an ultimate competitor… just keeps fighting,” he remarked, highlighting Darnold’s ability to inspire his teammates and lead them through adversity.
As the Seahawks prepare for their next challenges, they will look to maintain their momentum and solidify their playoff position, drawing on the tenacity and resilience they demonstrated in this remarkable comeback against the Rams.
