Seattle Seahawks at Tennessee Titans: Jaxon Smith-Njigba Among ‘3 to Watch’
The Seattle Seahawks are hoping to continue their winning ways as they prepare to face off against the Tennessee Titans on Christmas Eve. Kickoff is set for 10 a.m. PT (1 p.m. ET) at Nissan Stadium in Nashville.
Though many of Seattle’s most notables are expected to garner some attention during this upcoming matchup, here are three players that might raise an eyebrow when the Seahawks take the field against the Titans.
Geno Smith
While Drew Lock turned in a stellar performance in Seattle’s Week 15 win over the Philadelphia Eagles, Smith will be back under center on Sunday. In 12 regular-season appearances this season, Smith has compiled 2.918 yards on 259 completions with 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He has also carried the ball 30 times for 92 yards and one score.
Despite playing against an injury-depleted Titans defense, Smith will still face some hurdles as he returns from a groin injury which has kept him from the field for the past two games. Accordingly, look for Smith to utilize the quick-game early, while leaning on the running back tandem of Ken Walker and Zach Charbonnet. Once Smith finds his rhythm, he should find success against Tennessee’s secondary.
Seattle Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba and QB Geno Smith
© Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Smith-Njigba’s field vision and ability to run precision routes continues to make him a standout in Seattle's offense. The Ohio State product produced his shining moment to date as a pro when securing a game-winning 29-yard touchdown from Lock to beat the Eagles in Week 15. Still, it is important to remember that his usage has been limited. Smith-Njigba had only three catches on three targets for 19 yards prior to scoring in the closing moments. Whether he is matched with slot corner Roger McCreary or Tennessee’s versatile nickel safeties, Smith-Njigba should maximize his targets on Sunday.
Derick Hall
Though some may consider his draft position (No. 37 overall in the second round) to be a bit of a reach, Hall’s best football is still inside him. With the year winding down, letting it out on Christmas Eve in Music City may be the proper stage. During his time at Auburn, Hall recorded a total of 34 tackles and four sacks. He became a starter as a junior, where he recorded 52 total tackles and nine sacks. For his efforts, he was named second-team All-SEC in 2021 and first-team All-SEC in 2022. Through 14 games played this season, Hall has logged 27 total tackles, (one for loss) and four quarterback hits. The rookie should be expected to be used in situational pass-rush situations along the edge.
