Studs and duds from the Seahawks' Week 2 win against the Patriots
By Almar Reyes
Stud - Hero Geno
After a breakout 2022 season that saw Geno Smith silence his critics and earn Pro Bowl honors, the pressure to repeat that success in 2023 was even higher. In 2022, Smith exceeded all expectations, proving himself as a legitimate starting quarterback after years of being labeled a backup. However, the NFL is a "what-have-you-done-for-me-lately" league, and after a rough start to the 2023 season, the doubters have returned, questioning whether Smith’s success was just a one-year fluke. Despite the noise, Smith is determined to prove everyone wrong once again.
In Week 1, the Seattle Seahawks' offense sputtered, and Smith struggled to find his rhythm. The offensive line didn’t hold up well, the receivers had trouble getting separation, and the running game lacked consistency. As a result, Seattle’s offense could barely muster any points in a disappointing season opener.
Critics were quick to pounce on Smith, suggesting that he might be regressing to the inconsistent player of old. But anyone who knows Geno knows that he thrives when his back is against the wall.
In Week 2, against a tough New England Patriots defense, Smith showed resilience. Although the offense still didn’t click at full capacity, Smith was able to lead the Seahawks to an overtime victory, a testament to his leadership and ability to perform under pressure. The Seahawks offense wasn’t perfect by any means - there were still missed opportunities and drives that stalled - but Smith found a way to keep the team in the game.
When it mattered most, he made key throws, led a game-tying drive late in the fourth quarter, and ultimately helped Seattle secure a hard-fought 20-17 win in overtime.
The overtime performance showcased the qualities that have made Geno Smith a compelling figure in the NFL. He was calm in the face of pressure, making smart decisions and avoiding costly mistakes. The touchdown pass he threw in overtime was a perfect example of his ability to deliver when the stakes are highest. It wasn’t just about stats or flashy plays; it was about leadership, grit, and determination—qualities that have earned Smith the respect of his teammates and coaches.
While it’s clear the Seahawks’ offense hasn’t yet found its groove, Smith’s ability to lead the team to a 2-0 start is promising. The offense is a work in progress, and there’s plenty of room for improvement, but Geno’s resilience and leadership give Seattle a fighting chance in every game. As the season continues, the question remains: Can Smith once again silence the doubters and lead the Seahawks to another successful season? If Week 2’s overtime win is any indication, Geno isn’t backing down from the challenge.