The Seattle Seahawks will face the San Francisco 49ers with Drew Lock as their starting quarterback, as Geno Smith is inactive due to a groin injury. With the Seahawks already facing an uphill battle as double-digit underdogs and on a three-game losing streak, Lock’s performance will be crucial in their attempt to turn things around. Although Lock has had limited playing time this season, this game presents a golden opportunity for him to showcase his abilities and potentially secure a future starting role.
In addition to Smith’s injury, the Seahawks have been dealing with several other injuries to key players. Running backs Ken Walker III and Zach Charbonnet are both available for the game after being listed as questionable. Walker, who has missed the majority of the past three games, will boost the Seahawks’ rushing attack. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks, who was also listed as questionable with an ankle sprain, will provide valuable support for the Seahawks’ defense. However, cornerback Tre Brown, plagued by a heel injury, will be among the inactives for the game.
Smith’s groin injury, sustained during Thursday’s practice, rendered him questionable for the game. Despite also dealing with a triceps contusion on his throwing arm, Smith sought to play against the 49ers but was unable to recover in time. This opened the door for Lock, who has been patiently waiting for an opportunity to prove his worth as a quarterback. Acquired from the Denver Broncos in a trade for Russell Wilson, Lock’s tenure with the Seahawks has been marked by a backup role. However, he has diligently prepared for this moment and is eager to make the most of it.
Lock, who is 27 years old, will make his first start as a Seahawk. Last season, he did not have the chance to take a regular-season snap due to Smith’s selection as the starting quarterback. In his limited appearances this season, Lock has completed 4 of 12 attempts for 66 yards and an interception. As a second-round draft pick by the Denver Broncos in 2019, Lock had a mixed record as a starter, winning 8 out of 21 games and throwing 25 touchdown passes along with 20 interceptions. Despite the challenges he has faced, Lock has remained focused and committed to improving his performance.
With Smith out of the lineup, the Seahawks re-signed Sean Mannion to their practice squad and elevated him for the game. Mannion will serve as the backup quarterback and provide support to Lock if needed. The Seahawks’ remaining inactives include outside linebacker Frank Clark Sr., wide receiver Dee Eskridge, offensive tackles McClendon Curtis and Raiqwon O’Neal, and linebacker Patrick O’Connell. Clark, who did not travel to the Bay Area, is inactive for non-injury reasons.
The Seahawks face a daunting challenge against the San Francisco 49ers, who are currently 9-3. As 14.5-point underdogs, the odds are stacked against the Seahawks. The 49ers have emerged victorious in their last four encounters with the Seahawks, outscoring them by a margin of 120-56. Seattle needs to break this losing streak and avoid falling further in the NFC playoff picture. Coach Pete Carroll expressed his confidence in Lock’s readiness for the game, emphasizing his disciplined approach and focus on proving himself.
For Drew Lock, this game represents a pivotal moment in his career. Starting as the Seahawks’ quarterback allows him to demonstrate his skills and potentially secure a future starting role. Lock’s performance will not only impact the outcome of this game but may also shape his trajectory in the NFL. As he steps onto the field, he carries the weight of expectations on his shoulders. Seahawks fans and football enthusiasts alike eagerly await how Lock will seize this opportunity and steer the team towards victory.
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