The Seahawks saw some terrific performances last night against the Chargers. Unfortunately, not everyone brought their A game.
The Seahawks got back on the right side of the scoreboard with their 23-15 win over the Chargers last night. This being the preseason, the score isn’t exactly what matters (although a preseason win never hurts). It’s all about individual play, and we saw some excellent performances. Unfortunately, one player didn’t do much with the opportunities he had.
Before the game, I said Gary Jennings was one of three Seahawks that needed to show he was ready to establish himself as an NFL player. He didn’t come close to that. He did need more opportunities, as he’d only been targeted three times in the first two games. He got three chances last night and came away with just one catch for 12 yards. One pass was underthrown by Geno Smith, but Jennings also failed to get his feet down on a sideline route. It would have been an excellent play, but it’s one we’ve seen Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett make countless times.
He also made a seriously boneheaded play. Jennings blocked a defender in the back on a beautiful 16-yard dash by Russell Wilson, wiping out a first down. Okay, he actually blocked the player mostly in the side and used his shoulder, so it wasn’t nearly as egregious as the hit by Vikes corner Holton Hill on Paxton Lynch. If you heard Dan Fouts on the broadcast, Jennings might as well have landed a series of throat punches. I suppose that’s what I get for watching the game on the NFL Network.
Regardless, Wilson was already past him. Not getting your feet down, making a stupid penalty – that shows a serious lack of football IQ. Jennings needs to come through next week against the Raiders with a seriously good game. If he doesn’t, the practice squad is a distinct possibility for him. Too many other receivers have come through for the Seahawks, and it’s a crowded room. Jennings just has seven days to keep his chair.