Geno Smith Injures Knee in Seahawks’ Loss to Packers: Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy
The Seattle Seahawks’ playoff hopes were severely impacted by a 30-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers, compounded by a knee injury to quarterback Geno Smith. Smith was injured midway through the third quarter after a hit by linebacker Edgerrin Cooper, which caused his knee to hyperflex. Although coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that Smith’s knee appeared structurally intact, his status for the upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings is uncertain. Smith attempted to return to the game but was ultimately sidelined.
In Smith’s absence, backup Sam Howell struggled, completing just 5 of 14 passes for 24 yards and an interception, as the Seahawks’ offensive line allowed seven sacks. The Seahawks also lost center Olu Oluwatimi to a knee and quad injury. Prior to the injury, Smith had thrown for 149 yards and an interception, his 13th of the season.
The defeat dropped the Seahawks to 8-6, out of the playoff picture and tied for first in the NFC West, with a reduced 45% chance of making the playoffs. Howell, who had only played one snap before this game, will need to improve if called upon again.
