Schlereth: Seahawks QB Darnold key to Super Bowl win

FOX NFL analyst says Darnold's maturity and ability to manage the game will be pivotal for Seattle against the Patriots.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:23pm

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According to FOX NFL analyst and former Super Bowl champion Mark Schlereth, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold will be the most pivotal player in Sunday's Super Bowl matchup against the New England Patriots. Schlereth praised Darnold's growing maturity and ability to manage the game, noting that the Seahawks don't need him to be a superstar as long as he avoids turnovers and lets the team's strong supporting cast do the heavy lifting.

Why it matters

Darnold's performance will be crucial as the Seahawks look to capture their first Super Bowl title since 2014. The team has received contributions from all over the roster, but Schlereth believes Darnold's ability to manage the game and not make costly mistakes could be the difference-maker against a tough Patriots squad.

The details

Schlereth pointed to Darnold's poise and decision-making in the NFC Championship game, where he outdueled MVP candidate Matthew Stafford, as evidence that he is ready for the big stage. The analyst noted that Darnold doesn't need to be the superstar, as long as he avoids turnovers and trusts his supporting cast, which includes a strong running game, talented receivers, and a dominant defense.

  • The Super Bowl LX matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots will take place on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • In the NFC Championship game, Darnold threw for 346 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions against the Los Angeles Rams.

The players

Sam Darnold

The Seattle Seahawks' starting quarterback, who is in his 7th NFL season and has found success after being released by several teams earlier in his career.

Mark Schlereth

A FOX NFL analyst and three-time Super Bowl champion offensive lineman who played for the Denver Broncos.

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What they’re saying

“I love him, man. I love what he's been able to accomplish. I love his story. I love that he's been kicked to the curb by several teams and he's finding the success in year 7 and year 8. I love all that aspect.”

— Mark Schlereth, FOX NFL Analyst (Seattle Sports)

“Watching him start to understand, hey man, we've got a good run game. We've got a guy like JSN. We've got a really good offensive line. We've got an unbelievable defense. And as long as I don't screw it up, I don't have to be the superstar. As long as I don't screw it up and throw picks, we're going to be OK.”

— Mark Schlereth, FOX NFL Analyst (Seattle Sports)

What’s next

The Super Bowl LX matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots will take place on Sunday, February 9, 2026.

The takeaway

Sam Darnold's ability to manage the game and avoid costly mistakes could be the key to the Seattle Seahawks winning their first Super Bowl title since 2014. Darnold's growing maturity and trust in his supporting cast have impressed analysts like Mark Schlereth, who believe the quarterback can lead his team to victory against a tough Patriots squad.