Make New York Post a Preferred Source Sam Darnold (14) of the Seattle Seahawks looks on against the New England Patriots during the first quarter of a game at Lumen Field in Seattle, Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026. Getty Images Sports betting writer Dylan Svoboda is in his third season in the Post’s NFL Bettor’s Guide.
The Seahawks didn’t miss a beat without Sam Darnold.
Despite losing their starting quarterback early in their season-opener against the Patriots, Seattle took care of business in the Super Bowl rematch behind Drew Lock, tallying 10 points in the final quarter to secure the victory.
Now, Darnold is back after a quick recovery from a glute injury, and the Seahawks get another soft matchup in Week 3.
The Commanders have stumbled to an 0-2 start, and their defense was picked apart by Dak Prescott in Sunday’s 37-20 loss to the Cowboys.
Prescott completed 26 of 31 passes for 279 yards and four touchdowns, while CeeDee Lamb torched Washington for 153 receiving yards and two scores.
That should be encouraging for Darnold, who shouldn’t need much time to shake off the rest after missing only one full game.
Washington Commanders Marcus Mariota (8) looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth quarter of a game at AT&T Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, in Arlington, Texas. Getty Images Seattle’s offense didn’t miss a beat in his absence, with Lock throwing three touchdowns in a 31-7 win over the Cardinals as the defending Super Bowl champions improved to 2-0.
Making matters worse for Washington, Jayden Daniels will miss the game after suffering a dislocated elbow against Dallas.
That leaves the Commanders with Marcus Mariota at quarterback against a Seattle team that has already shown it can win comfortably without its own starter.
With Darnold back under center, the Seahawks should have plenty to keep rolling against a Commanders team that has yet to find its footing.
LAST WEEK: 0-1 (Buccaneers L)
Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst across many sports. He’s particularly knowledgeable about the big three — MLB, the NFL and the NBA.
