Seattle came into Monday night with a dominant history against the Detroit Lions, having won 14 of their last 18 matchups, including three high-scoring contests (37-31, 48-45, and 51-29). With a potent offense and a recent track record of lighting up the scoreboard, the Seahawks appeared poised for another shootout. However, it wasn’t enough to stop the Lions' efficiency and Jared Goff's near-perfect night in their 42-27 loss.
Seattle’s offense had its moments, with Geno Smith setting career highs by completing 38 of 56 passes for 395 yards. Kenneth Walker III, returning from injury, contributed 80 rushing yards on 12 carries, including three touchdowns. Despite these efforts, the Seahawks lacked the offensive rhythm necessary to complement their injury-plagued defense.
The defensive unit, decimated by injuries (with key players such as Boye Mafe, Leonard Williams, and Uchenna Nwosu sidelined), needed help from the offense to stay off the field. However, the Seahawks’ game plan failed to provide the necessary balance. In the first half, Seattle managed only 7 points, with two punts, a fumble, and a missed field goal weighing heavily against them. In contrast, Detroit efficiently converted their possessions into points, putting up 21 in the same span.
Jared Goff was nothing short of perfect. The Lions' quarterback completed all 18 of his first-half pass attempts and added a touchdown reception. While Goff isn’t known for pushing the ball downfield, his precision dismantled Seattle’s defense. His performance made him one of the most efficient quarterbacks in NFL history, yet the Lions’ win wasn’t the result of overwhelming firepower. Statistically, Seattle outgained Detroit on the ground (133 to 116 rushing yards), held a significant advantage in total yards (516 to 389), and even controlled the clock (34:04 to 25:56). But the Lions made the most of their opportunities, particularly in the first half.
Seattle’s failure to establish the run early was critical. In a game where keeping the ball out of Goff’s hands was essential, the Seahawks leaned too heavily on their passing game. Ryan Grubb’s pass-heavy strategy in the first half allowed Goff to control the tempo, leading to Seattle’s defense being worn down by the Lions' efficient offense. Even though the Seahawks' offense put up 20 points in the second half and their defense added a safety, it wasn’t enough to close the gap.
While the Seahawks’ defense needs to recover from injuries, it’s clear that Grubb's commitment to the run will be crucial moving forward. Without a balanced offensive approach, Seattle’s high-powered attack becomes less effective, especially in games where controlling the clock and protecting the defense is paramount.
As the Seahawks move on from this loss, adjustments will be necessary. Seattle boasts the talent on both sides of the ball to be competitive, but games like Monday’s reveal the importance of complimentary football. Against a team like Detroit, that means running the ball more effectively and strategically, especially when facing an elite performance like Goff’s.
— Peter Duncan, Sports Writer, The Facts Newspaper
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