In Super Bowl LX, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold connected with tight end AJ Barner for the game’s first touchdown, a pivotal moment in the Seahawks’ 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots on February 8, 2026. This touchdown broke a defensive stalemate and propelled Seattle to their second franchise Super Bowl title, capping a remarkable redemption story for Darnold.
The Super Bowl, held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, was characterized by defensive dominance from the outset. Both teams struggled to move the ball effectively, resulting in numerous punts and a scoreless first half for the Patriots. Seahawks kicker Jason Myers emerged as an early hero, converting five field goals to set a Super Bowl record and give Seattle a steady lead. His accuracy from 33, 39, and 41 yards kept the Patriots at bay, highlighting the importance of special teams in a game where offensive fireworks were scarce.
The breakthrough came in the fourth quarter when Patriots quarterback Drake Maye fumbled deep in his own territory. Capitalizing on the turnover, Sam Darnold executed a flawless play-action pass, finding AJ Barner for a 16-yard touchdown. This score, the first of the game, extended Seattle’s lead to 19-0 and shifted momentum decisively in their favor. Barner’s catch in the end zone was a testament to the Seahawks’ offensive execution under pressure, breaking the tension of a low-scoring affair.
Darnold’s touchdown pass symbolizes a career resurgence for the once-maligned quarterback. Drafted third overall by the New York Jets in 2018, Darnold faced early criticism and turnover issues, but found stability with the Seahawks. Under the guidance of head coach Mike Macdonald and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, he refined his skills, demonstrating improved decision-making and poise. This Super Bowl performance, where he threw for 202 yards and no interceptions, underscores his growth from a draft bust to a championship quarterback.
The Seahawks’ defense was instrumental in the victory, relentlessly pressuring Drake Maye with six sacks and forcing key turnovers. In the fourth quarter, cornerback Devon Witherspoon stripped Maye, and linebacker Uchenna Nwosu returned the fumble 45 yards for a touchdown, sealing the win at 29-7. This defensive touchdown highlighted Seattle’s aggressive scheme, which stifled the Patriots’ offense throughout the game, holding them scoreless until the final minutes.
Running back Kenneth Walker III earned Super Bowl MVP honors with 135 rushing yards, providing the ground game that complemented Darnold’s passing. Walker’s explosive runs kept the Patriots’ defense honest and allowed the Seahawks to control the clock. His performance, reminiscent of past greats, was crucial in a game where every yard was contested, and he became the first running back since 1998 to win the award.
This victory avenges the Seahawks’ heartbreaking loss to the Patriots in Super Bowl XLIX, with a new era of players and coaches achieving glory. Head coach Mike Macdonald, in his second season, outmaneuvered Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, showcasing strategic depth. The win also marks a culmination of Seattle’s season, where they finished 14-3 and overcame injuries and doubts to claim the title, reinforcing the team’s resilience and collective effort.
