Seahawks’ Sam Darnold Earns Poor Grade Despite Commanding Win Over Panthers

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Carolina Panthers 27-10 on Sunday. The victory came at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Quarterback Sam Darnold led the team to its sixth consecutive win. His individual performance, however, drew sharp criticism from analysts.

According to a report from Bleacher Report, Darnold received a D-plus grade for the game. Analyst Brent Sobleski described the outing as “hit or miss.” The win keeps Seattle in the hunt for the NFC’s top playoff seed.

Darnold’s Struggles Overshadow Team Success

Darnold completed 18 of his 27 pass attempts. He managed only 147 yards through the air. He threw one touchdown pass to tight end AJ Barner.

He also threw one interception and lost a fumble. The quarterback was sacked three times total. His 25.3 QBR rating was his second-worst mark of the entire season.

Head coach Mike Macdonald acknowledged the rough day. He stated it wasn’t Darnold’s “best game of all-time.” Macdonald did praise some key third-down throws made under pressure.

Seahawks’ Formula Relies Less on Quarterback Heroics

The team’s current winning streak does not rely on elite quarterback play. Seattle possesses an elite defense and a strong running game. This formula has allowed them to win despite offensive inconsistencies.

Darnold’s turnover issues are a growing concern. He has 20 total giveaways this season. That number is a career-high for the veteran signal-caller.

His recent eight-game stretch includes nine touchdown passes and nine interceptions. He has also lost four fumbles in that span. The earlier part of his season was far more efficient and protective of the football.

The Seahawks control their own destiny for the number one seed. They face the San Francisco 49ers in a critical Week 18 matchup. The team will likely need a cleaner performance from Sam Darnold to secure a playoff bye and make a deep postseason run.

Info at your fingertips

What grade did Sam Darnold get for the Panthers game?

Bleacher Report analyst Brent Sobleski gave Darnold a D-plus grade. The grade reflected a statistically poor game despite the team’s 17-point victory.

How many turnovers has Darnold committed this year?

Sam Darnold has committed 20 turnovers in the 2025 season. This is the highest single-season total of his eight-year NFL career.

Did the Seahawks win the game against Carolina?

Yes, the Seattle Seahawks won the game 27-10. The victory was their sixth consecutive win, improving their record for the season.

What is next for the Seattle Seahawks?

Seattle plays the San Francisco 49ers in Week 18. A win would secure the NFC’s number one overall playoff seed for the team.

Why is Seattle winning with mediocre QB play?

The Seahawks are winning because of a top-ranked defense and a strong rushing attack. This formula minimizes the need for dominant quarterback performances weekly.

 

Trusted Sources: Bleacher Report, Brady Henderson of ESPN.