As the Seattle Seahawks close the books on the 2024 season, attention turns to edge rusher Boye Mafe, who faced expectations he could not fully meet. After a breakout year in 2023, Mafe's projected statistics took a significant dip, with numbers across the board declining. He recorded only 344 pass-rush snaps, 40 tackles, and 6 sacks, falling short of last season's impressive totals.

This decline can be attributed to the rotation strategy implemented by head coach Mike Macdonald, who favored a three-player rotation on the edge. Mafe had fewer opportunities to shine, resulting in a drop from 99 pass-rush snaps compared to the previous season, which limited his overall production despite some standout moments, including a crucial strip-sack.

In Week 16, several players made significant impacts, including Kenny Moore with two interceptions and Taron Johnson and Marlon Humphrey both scoring pick-sixes. As Week 17 approaches, a list of waiver wire adds is presented, featuring 13 defensive players who could bolster fantasy teams for championship games.

Highlighted players include Jamien Sherwood of the New York Jets, Darius Muasau from the New York Giants, and Dee Winters of the San Francisco 49ers. The article also discusses potential streaming options for defensive linemen and backs, emphasizing matchups against the sack-prone Cleveland Browns.

Sam Darnold shone with three touchdown passes as the Minnesota Vikings edged the Seattle Seahawks 27-24, maintaining their chase for the NFC's top seed. Darnold's connection with Justin Jefferson was pivotal, with Jefferson recording 10 catches for 148 yards and two touchdowns.

Despite Geno Smith's strong performance, including a touchdown pass to AJ Barner, the Seahawks fell short, marking their second consecutive loss. The Vikings improved to 13-2, showcasing their resilience in close games.

In a crucial home game, Geno Smith led the Seattle Seahawks in a comeback against the Minnesota Vikings, ending the first half down 17-14. After a rocky start, Smith threw two touchdown passes, including a key 25-yarder to DK Metcalf.

Despite a turnover, the Seahawks' defense held the Vikings to a field goal, allowing Smith to connect with Jaxon Smith-Njigba for an 18-yard touchdown just before halftime. Both quarterbacks showcased strong performances, setting the stage for an exciting second half.

The Seattle Seahawks are set to face the Green Bay Packers in a crucial NFC matchup on Sunday Night Football, marking their first encounter since 2021. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning, with Seattle riding a four-game winning streak and the Packers holding a 9-4 record despite a recent loss.

Key matchups include Seahawks receivers against a depleted Packers secondary, as Green Bay will be without All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander. Additionally, the battle between Seattle's defensive front and Green Bay's offensive line will be critical, especially with Seahawks linebacker Uchenna Nwosu returning to action.

Quarterback Geno Smith's improved play will be tested against Packers safety Xavier McKinney, who leads the league in interceptions. The Seahawks' inside linebackers will also have their hands full with Packers running back Josh Jacobs, who is among the league's rushing leaders. Lastly, the matchup between Seattle's safeties and Green Bay's tight ends could prove pivotal in determining the outcome of this high-stakes game.