Grading Seahawks QB Geno Smith in season-defining Week 9 victory

In route to four straight victories, the Seattle Seahawks once again proved why they are a real threat. Not only are they winners of four straight, but they have won each of those games by double digits. The word fluke can no longer be associated with this Seahawks team led by Geno Smith.

As alluded to by many, this game had a great deal of meaning for both teams. The Arizona Cardinals were fighting to keep their season alive while the Seattle Seahawks were looking to grow their lead at the top of the NFC West. Entering the matchup, Arizona seemed to have found their offensive identity with WR DeAndre Hopkins returning from suspension.

But, complimentary football was once again on display for the Seahawks, proving to be too much for a dysfunctional Cardinals team. However, this game did come with some adversity. The one thing I have loved about this Seahawks team has been their improvement from week to week. More importantly, seeing Geno Smith’s delivery in the biggest of moments.

At this point of the season, we have seen Geno deliver in all ways, shapes and forms. He has played with a lead. He has played behind in New Orleans. He has led a game-winning drive against the Giants. This past week, his incredible resilience was once again on display in what can be considered a season-defining win for this Seahawks team.

Evaluating Seattle Seahawks QB Geno Smith’s Week 9

On the road in a divisional game with a lot on the line, Geno Smith had every reason to finally have an “off” game. In football, the circumstances dictate the outcome. In the third quarter, the momentum shifted when Geno Smith threw a pick-six, giving the Cardinals a 14-10 lead.

The great defensive play by Seattle was suddenly wiped out after the mistake from Geno Smith. The control of the ball game was handed over to Arizona after a poor decision by Geno. Instantly, immense pressure was poured upon the shoulders of our quarterback. But, looking back at it, 12s should have remained confident as our starting quarterback has dealt with adversity ever since entering the NFL.

Next play mentality. Geno has overcome far more than a pick-six in his career. After the interception, he led the Seahawks on a scoring drive. Following the mistake, he was 10 for 12, throwing for 123 yards and the go-ahead touchdown to Tyler Lockett. More importantly, on that critical scoring drive, he utilized his legs in gaining a huge first down on 3rd and 8.

Earlier in the game, Geno was holding onto the ball and becoming a statue in the pocket. He wasn’t stepping up and out nor was he looking to use his legs to pick up yards. As the game progressed, he got better at it. As the moments became more crucial, Geno continuously rose to the occasion.

The statistics above not only speak volumes to Geno’s performance but how about our young offensive line? Giving Geno time to go through his reads and make some nice throws. This offense has really come together. The buy-in is visible when watching. Not only on offense but on defense too. These guys are playing for each other. Most importantly, they are a young group playing with a great deal of confidence.

That primarily exists not only because of good coaching and culture but because they are seeing a quarterback who is delivering results. A quarterback who is engrained in this locker room and won over the respect of his teammates. Someone they are willing to go out and go to war for throughout a four quarter game.

Yes, a crucial mistake was made in this game. But, once again, Geno overcame and helped this team pick up a huge win.

Grade: A-