The
Darnold was transported to Harborview Medical Center for a CT scan, which provided encouraging but inconclusive results. The quarterback is scheduled for an MRI on Thursday to determine the extent of the damage, though head coach Mike Macdonald noted that initial examinations suggest he may have avoided a fracture. His status for the remainder of the season remains a primary concern for the team.
Resilience and Defensive Dominance
Following Darnold’s departure, backup quarterback
The Seahawks' defense proved to be the difference-maker in the second half. After trailing 10-0, Seattle capitalized on a series of errors by Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. Cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett played a pivotal role, recording a crucial fourth-quarter interception on a tipped pass that set up a game-tying scoring drive. The defense ultimately forced three turnovers from Maye in the final quarter to seal the win.
Patriots Struggle After Early Lead
New England’s evening took a negative turn when wide receiver A.J. Brown suffered a right ankle injury in the third quarter. His absence left Maye without his primary target, contributing to the quarterback's uncharacteristic struggles. Maye, who rarely threw multiple interceptions last season, was intercepted three times in the second half as the Patriots' early lead evaporated.
The Patriots also faced challenges with receiver Romeo Doubs, who struggled to fill the void left by Brown. Doubs was involved in two critical plays that stalled New England’s momentum: an interception on a deep ball and a dropped pass that would have secured a first down. While rookie tight end Eli Raridon provided an early spark with a 2-yard touchdown reception, the Patriots were unable to maintain their offensive rhythm. The Seahawks now look ahead to a matchup against the Arizona Cardinals on September 20, while the Patriots prepare to host the Pittsburgh Steelers on the same day.
