Darnold’s Persistent Challenge with the Rams

For Sam Darnold, those memories linger. There’s always a sense of waiting—or rather, waiting for the Rams. As the NFC Championship Game approaches, a tough truth looms: for the Rams to reach the Super Bowl, their defense doesn’t need a complete overhaul. They just have to continue what they’ve been doing against Darnold for two years: making him uncomfortable and forcing him to hesitate, which can make him doubt his own perception.

The phrase “I see ghosts” still haunts Darnold. He first said it back in 2019 when he was with the Jets, facing off against the Patriots with a microphone on. It was a candid moment that became a heavy label for him.

Since then, though, Darnold has made strides. He had a solid run with the Vikings—who even won 14 games in 2024—and now he’s with the Seahawks. Over the last couple of seasons, he’s shown resilience and skill, transforming from the anxious rookie he once was.

But there’s a caveat: when he faces the Rams, things drastically change.

In his last four games against Los Angeles—across his time with the Vikings and now the Seahawks—Darnold’s numbers have been tough to swallow: seven interceptions, 16 sacks, and a string of pressured possessions that left his offense struggling.

It’s not just that the Rams defeat Darnold; they seem to break him down.

In one particularly rough outing in Week 11, he threw four interceptions, mirroring his earlier notorious game. Seattle managed to outgain the Rams in yardage, yet still lost the match.

“They do a lot of good things defensively,” Darnold acknowledged. “Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula prepares his players well, using disguises and pressure effectively.”

Shula’s approach avoids gimmicks; he opts for understanding and finesse. The past defense relies on disguising coverage and a disciplined pass rush that maintains structure, rather than getting overly aggressive.

“Pass rush plays a big role in affecting the quarterback,” Shula said. “Our defensive backs are stepping up and making plays.”

However, it’s about more than just that; it’s the timing and the understanding that their aim isn’t just to sack Darnold but to consistently create pressure.

Just ask Jared Verse, who was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2024. He describes it simply: “Sam’s a talented quarterback. It’s on us to give him a solid hit early on. He’s aware we are there, and that’s enough to make any quarterback think twice.”

Rams safety Cam Karl doesn’t hold back, either. He knows Darnold well. “We’re aware of the type of quarterback he is. That awareness stays in the back of his mind.”

This is a battle that won’t show up in the stats or headlines, yet Darnold knows what lies ahead. “This is our third matchup. They’re a solid team, particularly their defense. For me, it’s crucial to protect the football and make smart decisions. Teams that manage the ball well usually find success,” he said.

That may sound logical, but it holds little weight if the Rams can disrupt his rhythm like in those past encounters.

In the four previous matchups, the NFC Wild Card Game from 2024 serves as a vivid example. The Rams showed no restraint, recording nine sacks and overwhelming pressures, and Darnold struggled to keep pace. He couldn’t process the defense quickly enough.

Sean McVay, the Rams head coach, understands this strategic duel intimately. “It’s really about familiarity and grasping how much execution and competitive stamina matter,” he mentioned.

In Week 16, Darnold managed to orchestrate a late rally to win against the Rams in an overtime thriller. That victory was significant for his confidence, but he still battled through his own inconsistencies during the game, which required some fortunate circumstances to pull off. Repeating such a performance in a championship context? Well, that remains questionable.

When asked if he wanted another chance against the Rams, Verse had a definitive response: “Yes. And if we win, the Super Bowl awaits.”

The reality is quite straightforward. The journey to that goal hinges on Darnold’s ability to confront his fears. If he can shake off those ghosts this December and play with confidence, the Seahawks may find themselves heading to Santa Clara. But if he hesitates or falters under the pressure, well, it could feel like the same old story.

After all, many ghost tales conclude in a familiar way. And the Rams’ defense has a knack for narrating that tale effectively.