Seattle’s blowout victory, capped by a kickoff return 95 yards by Rashid Shaheed and an outstanding defensive effort, got Darnold off to a stress-free start, completing 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and a touchdown. With his first playoff victory over, Darnold was able to rest on the sideline midway through the fourth quarter, giving backup QB Drew Lock some shots.
Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said this week that Darnold would not throw every ball on every play in practice this week as a precaution, an effort to ensure Seattle’s starting QB is as healthy as possible.
Darnold enters the NFC title game having struggled against the Rams this season, throwing six interceptions in two games. But the veteran QB boasts an even 1-1 record after leading an incredible comeback win over LA that included a touchdown pass and a two-pointer in overtime.
One win away from reaching their first Super Bowl since 2014, Darnold and Co. starting against the Rams at 6:30 PM ET on Sunday.