Broncos Beat Seahawks Despite Dismal Quarterback Play

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Quarterback Struggles Define Seattle-Denver Matchup

Thursday Night Football featured poor quarterback play from Seattle and Denver in a game both teams needed as they tried to establish their identities. Seattle remains in a difficult NFC West and now sits at 3-3.

Mike McDonald credited the Broncos for playing well in all three phases. He said there are no moral victories in the NFL, but he was proud of Seattle’s effort, resolve and connectedness. He also acknowledged that the team must quickly improve in areas within its control.

McDonald said Seattle will focus on finding solutions, evolving and becoming one of the league’s best teams. He believes the right people are in the building, but the team has work ahead and must get back to it.

Effort alone is not enough. Seattle needs execution for 60 minutes, especially with the team sitting at 3-3.

Sam Darnold offered no excuses for the loss and acknowledged that he cannot turn the ball over. He said the offense had some success running the ball and in the dropback game, while parts of the play-action game were inconsistent.

Darnold said the offense must evaluate what it does well and what needs improvement. He accepted responsibility, but late interceptions remain a major problem for a team with championship potential.

On the other side, Sean Payton pointed to Denver’s 4-2 record as the biggest reason to smile after six games. He emphasized that wins are difficult to earn and said the Broncos can continue to improve, while also admitting their record could easily be 2-4.

Despite the win, Denver’s quarterback finished with 107 passing yards and questioned why the offense could not push the ball vertically. He said the defense often played a soft cover-two shell that took away deep opportunities and left shorter outlets available.

The answer is straightforward: Denver needs to keep running the football and find ways to get more from its passing game.