Seahawks QB Geno Smith Injures Knee in Loss to Packers, Playoff Hopes in Jeopardy
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Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith injured his knee during the third quarter of their game against the Packers. The injury occurred when Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper hit Smith low as he was in the air, causing Smith's knee to hyperflex and his cleat to get stuck in the turf. Smith was visibly in pain and limped off the field before being examined in the medical tent and then heading to the locker room.
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Initial assessments suggest that the injury is not structurally serious, but Smith will undergo further testing to determine the extent of the damage and his availability for future games. The injury is particularly concerning as it comes at a critical juncture for the Seahawks, who are in a tight race for the NFC West title. The Seahawks are now tied with the Los Angeles Rams for the division lead, but the Rams hold the tiebreaker due to their Week 9 win over Seattle. The teams will face off again in the regular-season finale, a game that could determine the division winner.
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Backup quarterback Sam Howell replaced Smith and struggled to generate any offensive momentum, completing only 5 of 14 passes for 24 yards and an interception. Howell was sacked four times and pressured on 53% of his dropbacks, highlighting the challenges Seattle faced without Smith. The Seahawks' playoff hopes could take a serious hit if Smith's injury forces him to miss time, as their remaining schedule includes tough opponents and the 9-5 Washington Commanders are also in the mix for the NFC's final wild-card spot.
