Patriots fall to Seahawks as defensive effort outshines struggling offense

The New England Patriots were defeated by the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field, with the defense performing well enough to keep the game close while the offense faltered. Quarterback Drew Lock, who entered the game after Sam Darnold’s injury, was unable to sustain drives, and a critical turnover on a pass attempt contributed to the loss.

The Patriots’ run defense showed some vulnerability, which analysts attributed in part to the Seahawks’ interior line play and the superior blocking by Seattle’s tight end A.J. Barner and fullback Brady Russell. In contrast, New England’s blockers Eli Raridon and Reggie Gilliam were less effective, a factor that may have limited the Patriots’ ability to protect the quarterback.

Late-game fatigue appeared to affect both units, with the defense playing 19 fewer snaps than the offense and showing signs of wear in the fourth quarter. This decline was cited as a reason for missed tackles on a Seattle touchdown pass to Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

"The defense seemed to wear down faster, which contributed to the missed pursuit on the Smith-Njigba touchdown," a commentator noted.

The loss underscores ongoing concerns about the Patriots’ offensive consistency and depth at key positions as the season progresses.