Seahawks Stumble on Third Downs in Loss

Seattle fell 34-17 to the Chicago Bears in Week 8, going 1-for-11 on third downs.

Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Football

The Seattle Seahawks lost 34-17 to the Chicago Bears in Week 8 after a strong win over the Kansas City Chiefs the week before. Seattle converted just one of 11 third-down attempts and gave up three sacks in the loss.

Why it matters

Third-down efficiency and protection are central to Seattle's offensive rhythm, and the breakdown in both areas stalled drives throughout the game. For local fans, the performance raises questions about whether the offense can sustain production in the weeks ahead.

Seattle converted one of 11 third-down attempts and produced 81 total rushing yards in the 34-17 loss. The extraction does not say whether the rushing and conversion struggles were schematic or personnel-driven.

The players

Richard Sherman

A former Seattle Seahawks cornerback and Super Bowl champion who now hosts a podcast and commentary program.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

A Seattle Seahawks wide receiver who was the lone Seattle player with a notable impact in the passing game in the loss.

Cooper Kupp

A veteran wide receiver and Super Bowl MVP who scored a touchdown for Seattle in the game.

The details

Seattle's offense struggled to extend drives, with the running game managing only 81 yards and the passing game showing limited impact beyond Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Cooper Kupp scored a touchdown, while Quenton Nelson, who joined the offensive line this season, and the injured Charles Cross are central to the line's recovery.

Week 7: Seattle beat the Kansas City Chiefs in a dominant win.
Week 8: Seattle lost 34-17 to the Chicago Bears.
Nov. 2: Richard Sherman discussed the third-down problems on his podcast.

The Tech Race

The 34-17 loss contrasts with the defensive dominance that powered Seattle's 2013 Super Bowl XLVIII title team. Seattle's current offensive struggles mark a sharp departure from that identity.

Seattle's third-down struggles and sack totals directly affect fantasy projections for Smith-Njigba and the offensive line. Fantasy managers should monitor Charles Cross's return timeline as it could shift protection for the passing game.

The takeaway

Third-down conversion rate is one of the most reliable indicators of offensive health, and Seattle's 1-for-11 mark is worth tracking as the season continues. Readers following the team should watch whether the offensive line stabilizes once injured starters return.