Geno Smith's Costly Interceptions Lead To Seattle's Overtime Heartbreak Against Rams
Seattle's Geno Smith commits crucial turnovers, hands Rams overtime win
Geno Smith's costly interceptions proved to be the downfall for the Seattle Seahawks as they suffered a heartbreaking 27-23 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.
Smith threw two interceptions in overtime, with the second one being a pick-six that sealed the Rams' victory. The quarterback's untimely turnovers overshadowed an otherwise efficient performance in which he completed 27 of 39 passes for 219 yards and a touchdown.
The game was a back-and-forth affair with the Seahawks holding a 17-13 lead at halftime. However, the Rams chipped away at the deficit and forced overtime with a field goal as time expired in regulation.
In overtime, Smith's first interception was returned to the Seahawks' 15-yard line, setting up the Rams for a field goal that gave them a 23-20 lead. Smith's second interception came on the Seahawks' ensuing possession, and Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey returned it for a touchdown to end the game.
Smith's interceptions were uncharacteristic mistakes for a quarterback who had been relatively turnover-free throughout the season. Prior to Sunday's game, Smith had only thrown four interceptions in the Seahawks' first five games.
Smith's costly turnovers overshadow Seahawks' valiant effort
Despite Smith's interceptions, the Seahawks put forth a valiant effort against a talented Rams team. Running back Kenneth Walker III rushed for 156 yards, including a 60-yard run in the third quarter that set up a Seahawks touchdown. Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf were also productive receivers, combining for 13 receptions for 161 yards.
The Seahawks' defense also held their own, limiting the Rams to just 277 yards of total offense. However, the Rams' ability to capitalize on Smith's turnovers proved to be the difference in the game.
Seahawks face uphill battle after overtime loss
With the loss, the Seahawks fell to 2-4 on the season and face an uphill battle to make the playoffs. They are now three games behind the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC West standings.
The Seahawks will look to rebound next week when they host the Arizona Cardinals. However, they will need to find a way to protect the football and limit turnovers if they want to have any chance of making a run in the playoffs.