SEATTLE – The Seattle Seahawks transformed their frustrations from a two-game losing streak into a powerful performance, reminiscent of playoff football. This strategic shift was on full display as they faced the Kansas City Chiefs, ultimately handing them their first loss of the season with a decisive score of 20-3 on Sunday night.
Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba starred in the victory, catching nine passes for a remarkable 150 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Sam Darnold also contributed significantly, throwing for 257 yards and a score, while running back Emanuel Wilson added 100 rushing yards on 24 carries, including a touchdown.
“Playing a team like Kansas City and all the killers that they got on that side, we knew how big this game was, and we wanted this one badly,” said Smith-Njigba, who leads the NFL in receiving yards and earned the title of Offensive Player of the Year last season. “You know, we saw it as a playoff game.”
In stark contrast, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes struggled throughout the evening, completing only 165 yards with an interception. The Seahawks’ defense effectively contained former Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, limiting him to just 36 yards on 14 carries. Walker, who had been averaging a league-leading 133 yards per game, found no success against Seattle’s defensive front, which held the Chiefs to a mere 213 total yards.
“Listen, all three phases we struggled, so we’ve got to do better, and that’s my responsibility,” Kansas City coach Andy Reid admitted. “So I take full responsibility for this. We’ve got to play better as a team.”
The Seahawks’ defense has set a record, not allowing a 100-yard rusher in 36 consecutive games, showcasing their dominance in the league. “We know what kind of running back was coming in here, but we don’t allow people to run through our defense,” said linebacker Ernest Jones IV.
While the Chiefs faced struggles, tight end Travis Kelce managed to reach a career milestone, recording four receptions that brought his career total to 1,104, surpassing legends Marvin Harrison and Cris Carter for fifth in NFL history.
The game began with a strong showing from the Seahawks. Darnold connected with Smith-Njigba for a significant 33-yard gain, leading to a 25-yard field goal by Jason Myers for an early 3-0 lead. Shortly after, a critical interception by Ty Okada set up a touchdown pass from Darnold to Smith-Njigba, pushing Seattle ahead 10-0.
Despite a promising start, the Chiefs struggled offensively, with Mahomes fumbling and missing a 45-yard field goal attempt late in the game. A final touchdown run from Wilson solidified the Seahawks’ victory at 20-3, emphasizing their resilience and capability.
“I think this game reminds the guys what we’re capable of,” Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald reflected. “I think our guys understand that there’s more levels to where we can go, and so I hope they feel the sense of urgency that we can get there because it is stuff that we can control.”
Notable Absences
The Seahawks welcomed running back Zach Charbonnet to the active roster but ruled him out for the game. Charbonnet had an impressive previous season, rushing for 730 yards before suffering an ACL injury. The Chiefs missed receiver Rashee Rice due to a hamstring injury and starting tackle Jaylon Moore, who is in concussion protocol.
Injuries
The Seahawks faced additional challenges with receiver Rashid Shaheed leaving the game with a knee injury, and tackle Charles Cross exiting in the fourth quarter due to an ankle injury.
Up Next
The Chiefs are set to visit the Denver Broncos next Sunday, seeking to rebound from this defeat. Meanwhile, the Seahawks will host the Chicago Bears on Monday, November 2, aiming to build on their recent success.
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