Darnold Leverages Smith-Njigba to Lead Seahawks Past Titans in Thrilling 30-24 Win
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In a nail-biting contest, the Seattle Seahawks emerged victorious over the Tennessee Titans 30-24 on Sunday in Nashville. Quarterback Sam Darnold played a pivotal role, connecting with Jaxon Smith-Njigba on two touchdown passes. The NFL's leading receiver, Smith-Njigba, racked up an impressive eight catches for 167 yards. Darnold, who rebounded from a four-interception performance in his previous game, completed 16-of-26 passes for 244 yards. Kenneth Walker III contributed significantly with 71 yards on 11 carries, the highest of the game. Tennessee's Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the spring draft, put up a respectable performance, throwing 28-of-42 passes for 256 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for 37 yards and a score. However, the Titans suffered their sixth consecutive defeat. The Seahawks' lead was established early in the second half, with a 76-yard drive culminating in a 13-yard touchdown pass to Smith-Njigba. Ward's 1-yard touchdown pass to Chimere Dike with just 43 seconds remaining was not enough to spark a comeback, as the onside kick failed to reach the required 10 yards. The Seahawks' 23-3 lead was built upon a 63-yard scoring strike from Darnold to Smith-Njigba and three field goals by Jason Myers. The Titans' Cam Ward managed to score a 6-yard run in the third quarter, but the Seahawks maintained their control. In a notable defensive effort, Patrick O'Connell, elevated from the practice squad, sacked Ward on third-and-goal from the 3-yard line, forcing Tennessee to settle for a 22-yard field goal. O'Connell stepped in for the injured Ernest Jones IV at middle linebacker.
