SEATTLE, WA – OCTOBER 03: Quarterback Russell Wilson #3 of the Seattle Seahawks passes against the Los Angeles Rams at CenturyLink Field on October 3, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
Sometimes there’s just nothing an NFL defense can do. That’s how the Rams have to feel about Russell Wilson’s sensational touchdown pass to Tyler Lockett.
Russell Wilson has a well-earned reputation as being one of the most dangerous NFL quarterbacks outside the pocket. His touchdown pass to Tyler Lockett in the first quarter of Thursday Night’s game will only extend that reputation. His throw to Lockett in the back corner of the end zone resulted in a catch that could easily end up as one of the top grabs of the NFL season.
It was only a 14-yard touchdown pass, but the degree of difficulty on the play was off the charts. Wilson executes a play fake to the right and immediately reverses his field to scramble to the left. He shows incredible patience to wait for his receivers to break open.
Then finally, he spots Lockett streaking towards the back left corner of the end zone. Somehow, Wilson flicks the ball out of his flat-footed stance to put the ball where only Lockett can come up with it. To Lockett’s credit, he shows amazing body control to come down with the ball and drag two feet just inside the boundary.
It’s just the type of play that causes NFL defensive coordinators to lose sleep. There’s very little the Rams’ secondary could have done to stop the connection. One might criticize the Los Angeles pass rush for letting Wilson escape contain, but he is one of the best players in football at getting outside the pocket and making big plays.
Ultimately, the Rams will be satisfied with how they defended this play. It’s just a classic example of how perfect offense defeats great defense. Los Angeles will hope it’s the only magical play Wilson has up his sleeve tonight.