Geno Smith expects to play against Vikings with improved knee Sunday.

This combination of updates makes for unexpectedly positive news, especially when considering how Smith appeared after he exited the Sunday night loss to Green Bay, grimacing on the sideline while backup Sam Howell replaced him and fared poorly. Without Smith in the lineup, Seattle’s offense cratered, leading to a 30-13 loss. At 8-6, the Seahawks know they need their quarterback back in the lineup as soon as possible, especially with another strong NFC North member in Minnesota awaiting them. It appears they’ll have Smith for that game, a contest that is crucial in Seattle’s playoff push.