Mike Macdonald's Seattle Seahawks lost 33-31 to the Washington Commanders in Washington, D.C. during a Week 3 game that saw Marcus Mariota do his best Sam Darnold impression. The Seahawks got a tough injury update on Nick Emmanwori during a forgettable day that led to a Mike Macdonald speech afterward.
Macdonald was complimentary of the Commanders in defeat, while also lamenting opportunities his team missed to win the game.
“Hats off to Washington, I thought they played a great game, had a great plan,” the Seahawks coach said. “In the NFL what wins games is great situational football and taking care of the rock, and playing complimentary football and stacking plays, and we didn't do that today.
“I think the message to our guys is just that. When we play great Seahawk football, we should expect to win games…Tough game, great game by them and we move forward.”
Seattle rookie Jadarian Price lost a fumble causing a backlash on social media. The Seahawks also had four punts, eight penalties, and threw two interceptions as the Commanders capitalize on a litany of mistakes. The return of Darnold netted 379 passing yards including four passing touchdowns and two interceptions, but it wasn't enough to overcome a scrappy Washington team, led by the inspiring play of the Commanders' backup QB, Mariota.
October 4 will bring Jim Harbaugh's suddenly floundering Chargers to Seattle, giving Macdonald's team a chance to redeem themselves. For now, they have a lot to marinate on as they continue to pursue a second straight NFC West title.