Sam Darnold Criticized by Fans for 4 INTs in Loss to Stafford, Rams Amid NFC West Race

Sam Darnold threw four interceptions as the Seattle Seahawks fell out of a first-place tie in the NFC West following a 21-19 loss to Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams on the road Sunday.

The NFC West clash allowed the Rams to solely take over first place with an 8-2 record, extending their win streak to five games and going 3-2 in conference play. Seattle dropped to 7-3, snapping a four-game winning streak.

Darnold threw three interceptions before the third quarter, finishing with four, with 279 yards on 29-of-44 passing attempts. The Seahawks lone touchdown came at the end of the fourth from running back Kenneth Walker III. 

▶️ Full Seahawks-Rams Recap

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Fans criticized Darnold's performance on Sunday in the must-win AFC West matchup.

Stafford led the Rams to victory, throwing for 130 yards and two touchdowns, completing 15-of-28 passes and connecting with Colby Parkinson and Davante Adams for scores. Kyren Williams added a rushing touchdown and 91 yards on the ground.

Both offenses struggled early, with Los Angeles turning the ball over on downs and Seattle losing possessions after an interception. The Rams scored two touchdowns after a bumpy start in the first quarter, while the Seahawks added a field goal.

Seattle added two more field goals in the second quarter, using up much of the clock to trail 14-9 at halftime.

Despite throwing two interceptions in the third quarter, Seattle managed a field goal as the Rams committed a fumble and were held scoreless, entering the fourth quarter with a two-point lead.

The Rams opened the fourth quarter with a touchdown, and Darnold threw his fourth interception. Seattle notched their first touchdown late in the quarter to cut the deficit to three. 

After forcing a Rams four-and-out, the Seahawks got the ball back with 1:41 remaining. With one second left on the clock, Jason Myers lined up for a 61-yard field goal but missed, sealing the loss.

Los Angeles will host Tampa Bay next Sunday.