4 major observations from Sam Darnold’s performance vs. Steelers
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold’s connection with D.J. Moore improved
The connection between Sam Darnold and D.J. Moore took a major step back at the Seattle Seahawks. Concerns also surrounded the wide receiver during the week thanks to an ankle complication that left him questionable for the contest.
After the Pittsburgh Steelers seized the initiative early on, the onus was on Darnold to make things happen in the passing game. And when a big play was needed, Moore was the man he looked for.
Of all the torrid quarterbacks Moore’s worked with in recent years, his chemistry with Darnold is arguably the best. Something that was evident once again in Week 15 en route to a much-improved afternoon from the former first-round selection out of Maryland.
Moore finished with five receptions from six targets for 73 receiving yards and one touchdown. Not exactly eye-popping stats, but a step in the right direction nonetheless.
This was even more encouraging when one considers how good Pittsburgh’s defense was from start to finish. Darnold needs Moore at the top of his game in pursuit of finishing the campaign strongly, so this progress between the pair was encouraging if nothing else.
It wasn’t going to be Carolina’s day – that was clear from some way out. But the duo of Darnold and Moore can take heart from their improved timing.