Seahawks @ Chargers first half notes

Some first half thoughts…

Seattle’s offense was a hot mess early on — but it’s not overly concerning. These pre-season games are perfect for a relatively structured, passing offense to excel. Philip Rivers can run endless picks, crossing routes and slants with a bit of Melvin Gordon and Danny Woodhead mixed in. Seattle’s attack is based on controlled chaos and Marshawn Lynch. It’s hard to create chaos in pre-season and Lynch had only one drive.

Even so, it would’ve been nice to see some cohesion. Russell Wilson was flustered throughout the first half. When he did get time he overthrew Jimmy Graham down the seam.

On a more positive note, Seattle’s first two picks in the 2015 draft will prove to be their best since 2012.

Tyler Lockett again flashed in the return game (see above). He sets up the blocks well and finishes. That’s what he does. The blocking was very good too. Frank Clark also had another big first half. On one play he bull rushed the center into the backfield to split a sack with Jordan Hill. On another play he started at left end with Michael Bennett inside on a 3rd and 5. The left-side pressure/attention created a sack for Bruce Irvin.

Rivers got a little chesty on one Clark rush where he drilled the quarterback into the ground. King Dunlap took a 15-yard penalty for dragging Clark off Rivers. The very next play was the Lockett return-TD. That extra bit of space probably aided Lockett’s passage to the end zone. We should probably give Clark an assist…

In general the Seahawks look more aggressive on key downs. We’re seeing all-out attack at times with the best pass rushers all on the field. They’re timing the snap count well (unlike last year) and getting into the backfield. It’s too early to say whether this is a Kris Richard installed wrinkle or good form, but it looks intriguing.

Lynch was coaching Lockett up at one point before the end of the half.

The O-line struggled on the left side on first viewing. Alvin Bailey, starting at left tackle, was beaten badly by 255lbs Kyle Emanuel on a play where Justin Britt also whiffed on an inside rush. On the previous play Britt was flagged for holding.

There didn’t appear to be too many issues with Drew Nowak at center. Garry Gilliam looks very comfortable at right tackle.

Wilson has missed a few easy throws in pre-season. Right before the end of the half he threw behind Jimmy Graham. It was catchable but awkward — and Graham dropped it.

K.J. Wright left the game with a shoulder injury but the announcers said he was cleared to return — the team decided against it as a precaution.

Overall a typical Seahawks road game. Ugly at times, too many penalties — and still winning. It’s 2:30am. Further thoughts later.

169 Comments

  1. Screeching Hawk

    Wow Tyler Lockett! That was amazing how he set up his blocks by being patient and then reversing field all the way to the land of touchdowns. Once again Pete and John were right! Frank Clark looks like a man against boys and it’s the NFL. Whoo hoo I’m a happy boy! I’m frustrated with the offense but not concerned, If Russell was going to regress it would have shown by now. Unless that miricle water is tainted. LIMT, Laughing in my thoughts.

  2. JeffC

    Phil Simms is implying Tharold Simon is a better cb than Cary Williams. And…he’s right.

    • redzone086

      Absolutely Simon plays way better the sad thought is with the guaranteed money Williams makes the team no matter what but whoo he is stealing the spot of some interesting prospects for a one and done signing.

      • Steele

        That Simon (and others) have outperformed Cary Williams is no surprise. He was not worth signing.

        • arias

          It’s really a shame, as the money spent on him could really come in handy. It’s even more of shame that had Simon shown anything in the postseason he probably wouldn’t have been signed.

          • Willyeye

            Not every player is an Earl Thomas clone. Sure, Earl can play with a separated shoulder/fully torn labrum…there’s no way I would expect the same from Tharold Simon. I thought Simon had a GREAT regular season last year. I thought all along that Maxy would be gone this year, and Simon would replace him. Then Simon had that horrible dislocated shoulder against the Cards in Week 16. I still remember the doc trying to shove his arm back in while Simon was laying on the ground writhing in pain. I have no idea what Carroll was thinking, but Simon never should have played in the Panthers game, or against the Patriots. This decision alone was responsible for losing SB49. Burley should have been active instead of Simon in the postseason. HUGE MISTAKE! Simon is a beast, and I think signing Williams was a HUGE mistake also. Created an extra cap hit that wasn’t necessary. If Simon isn’t starting in Week 1, I for one will be really upset! Can’t give the starting job based on a mistake!

            • Miles

              I think calling the Cary Williams signing a bad move is hindsight 20/20 and not really a fair criticism. The Seahawks had to do something at the spot and couldn’t just assume Simon would be the guy. Besides he has only played one game, and while it was a good one you can’t put all your eggs in one basket based off that.

              Another perspective is this: if the Seahawks hadn’t signed Williams, it possibly wouldn’t have provided the motivation for Simon to prepare to be the player we’re hoping he’ll turn out to be.

              The Seahawks are stuck with Cary Williams this year no matter what. But I believe he gets no guaranteed money next year, so if the Hawks want to cut bait with him then, they can.

              • Volume12

                Had CB Jeremy Lane not been hurt they probably wouldn’t of signed Cary. Even though he’s not a nickel, they needed depth and Cary is a hedge.

                Love me some Tharold Simon man! He’s got that Brandon Browner ‘thug and mug’ going for him in spades.

            • arias

              There wasn’t much choice about playing Simon against the Panthers because Maxwell had some emergency stomach flu or migraine, I can’t remember which, about half an hour before kickoff and missed that game.

              Was the drop off in his play a direct consequence of that separated shoulder in week 16? I really really hope so. It was never used as an excuse by him or the coaches. He’s looked much better this preseason, and maybe the Williams signing has lit a fire underneath him because it SHOULD have. He should have heard loud and clear with that signing that the braintrust was NOT comfortable with him stepping into Maxwell’s shoes.

              Miles does bring up a good point about Simon’s motivation, since this has been an issue for him in the past getting upbraided by teammates during practice or whatever. It’s like he might have ADD. But the Williams signing should have given him the jolt of motivation that he needs and so far, it appears it has. So I’m really happy to see him motivated and playing well.

  3. HOUSE

    Early notes:

    I’m not hating on Steven Terrell, I’m sure he’s a standup guy, but he has looked HORRIBLE. He makes the team if Kam doesn’t return, if Kam is back, he’s gone. I only see us carrying 4 safeties (ET, Bailey, Shead and Kam/Terrell).

    Cary Williams has been underwhelming in my eyes…

    Outside of Tyler Lockett, I have been HIGHLY impressed with Cassius Marsh on ST. On Tyler’s Return TD, he hauled ass to catch up to TL and on punt coverage he’s gotten down field and been around tackles.

    The offense has been frustrating to say the least, but it is the preseason and expectations should be hampered.

    • Barry

      Always good to see a guy like Marsh hustling to make blocks on ST.

    • Mark

      Yeah, I saw #91 flash into frame at the end and it was “Wow” that’s moving for one of the big guys.

    • bigDhawk

      I agree that Marsh is an impressive ST player, and worth keeping around just for that. His DL/LB play however, leaves something to be desired.

      • Volume12

        Disruption=production.

        • bigDhawk

          Is he really disruptive though? That seems to be a popular opinion but I don’t see it much.

          • Volume12

            I’m not sure what your looking for. Dude was everywhere Saturday night. Pursuit plays, setting the edge, pushing the pocket, playing with energy, getting into the backfield. It’s not all about sacks or TFL.

    • Willyeye

      I’m actually impressed with Ronald Martin…the kid is a beast. If Kam doesn’t make it back by Week 1, Martin would be a much better choice than Terrell.

      I hope the $6 million salary for Williams doesn’t make them start Williams instead of Simon…Simon was a beast last night. I thought Simon had a GREAT regular season last year. I thought all along that Maxy would be gone and Simon would replace him. Then Simon had that horrible dislocated shoulder against the Cards in Week 16. I still remember the doc trying to shove his arm back in while Simon was laying on the ground writhing in pain. I have no idea what Carroll was thinking, but Simon never should have played in the Panthers game, or against the Patriots. This decision alone was responsible for losing SB49. It’s one thing to have Earl play through the same shoulder injury, but Simon is no Earl at this point in his career. Simon is a beast, and I think signing Williams was a HUGE mistake. Created an extra cap hit that wasn’t necessary. If Simon isn’t starting in Week 1, I for one will be really ticked off!

      • Mylegacy

        Willyeye – You are SO RIGHT about Martin… I told my wife before the game to watch for Martin – because he’s so low on the list I expected he wouldn’t get on the field until late in the 4th quarter. I absolutely LOVE every move he’s made on the field in the few times he’s been out there. I’m beginning to suspect the team is VERY high on him, but knowing the numbers and Martins inexperience they’re hoping to stash him with the reserves so he can keep developing his knowledge to go along with his obvious instincts and physical skill.

        As to Simon – way too many on the site are forgetting just how outstanding he was before his injury. As you say – “He’s a beast.”

  4. peter

    Wilson has looked off this whole preseason but good lord could he ever play with the same line longer then a game? tom cable if he really is the olive whisperer needs to make it happen now. And bailey, sheesh has anyone ever consistently worked as hard at being a backup?

    • JeffC

      RW looks like that guy we saw in the first half of every playoff game last season, including the super bowl

      • peter

        It’s true. I do wonder what causes him to be that guy and nit the guy who won the starting role when he got drafted?

    • peter

      O line whisperer sheesh not “olive,”

      • Catabu

        I thought “olive whisperer” fit perfectly with the state of the o line

        • Hoberk Unce

          Since Bailey should be working at Olive Garden instead of playing LT, you weren’t that far off.

  5. footballnerd

    From what i saw Clark looked really good at times but on other occasions was completely stone walled. Also, why is controlled chaos so hard to create in the preseason?

    • Barry

      He’s still a rookie. I like the reference to controlled chaos. I think its just a hot word\saying that Pete liked enough to use. Not necessarily a game plan but what can happen with all the variables that comes with Wilson’s abilities.

      • Daniel

        I was actually referring to Rob’s point about it being hard to create controlled chaos in the preseason.

    • CharlietheUnicorn

      I’m of the opinion that Clark has already had more impact then could be expected for a rookie in the NFL. Even ELITE pass rushers get stoned from time to time. If he continues to flash in every game he has been in, he will be the next great defensive star for the Seahawks.

      • arias

        The kid is a force of nature. The way he’s looked so far, it’s like they got a high first round caliber pass rusher in the 3rd round.

        • Robert

          AND Lockett looks like 1st round caliber, as well!

      • Volume12

        Yup. Clark has already shown enough IMO.

        • Bruce M.

          With a few more rush moves, he’ll be a first-line force. Right now, it’s mostly bullrush. Go up against a OL with some serious sand in the pants and the good anchor that goes with it and he will get stoned. But he’s got the quicks to develop some good moves, and he’s got the effort all the good ones have.

  6. Barry

    I am a little concerned about the play of the offense. The final score doesn’t matter in preseason but the performance of the first team does. Especially for a team with a rebuild O-line and a new big time weapon. The way our season ended last year it would be good for the coaching staff to start rather hot then cold.

    As far as the O-line I hope Cable just goes with the the strongest and athletic guys of the bunch. Take the pressure off of Wilson and hope that the front fire build some confidence and cohesion. We could run the ball with 3 capable backs use our beast of a TE and go PA for some big plays. Sounds simple but until Wilson and Bevel get on the same page well enough for Wilson to start hot it might be the best way to minimize the damage.

    • sdcoug

      My concern is growing too. I know the usual caveats; vanilla play-calls, no real game-planning, shuffled O-line, no Lynch…but come on…every other team in football seems able to pick up a first down before the third offensive series.

      I might be off-base, but I’ve always felt Bevell could do a lot better job in the first series specifically calling plays just to establish a little rhythm. Go all seattle mode after that…but at least get us in a groove.

      Lockett is a difference maker. And what’s humorous is that more than half of the regulars here blasted him pre-draft with very few championing him as a good target. Even more went ballistic after spending a few extra mid-round picks to trade up. All I heard from people was sparq-ed out Chris Connelly, etc. Anyone want to change their scouting report now?

      • Barry

        Bevell’s play calling for the first half has always frustrated me but I give him the benefit of the doubt because the second half we normally seem to make adjustments and execute much better. So it could be the plan to stick to a strict game plan and feel the other team out. But I agree completely as far as simple execution based off of our talent. Its horrendous. I think it may be time to start accepting there are routes Wilson will not have open from the pocket due to not being about to see the window because of his height.

        I was alway high on Lockett especially after the Sr bowl. It has always made me wince a bit for how much we ended up having to give for him. I think its a break even deal in the end and I think we have yet to see what he can bring to the offense not just ST.

        • peter

          His adjustments are usually grew but good grief why do they take so long? And if they are just trying plays out why is the execution so terrible…its definitely not all on him but he is the boss of all this process

      • Robert

        I sure as hell do. I wanted them to draft Connelly and I was real concerned about all the Draft capital they sunk into Lockett. But I let it go right away and started to research our actual picks. The more I dug around, the more I became very excited about the likelihood that Clark’s and Lockett’s game would quickly translate well to the pro game.

      • Robert

        I totally agree…these slow starts are just dumb. We should begin games with the objective of establishing tempo and rhythm. Start with quick hitters so the pass rush is a non factor. Break tendencies, spread the defense out by making them defend the entire field. Move the fucking chains!

      • Phil

        I was a big-time supporter of Lockett on this site, pushing for him while others wanted Tre McBride. We have seen what Lockett can do on ST and I think he will be equally good when he starts to be used more as a receiver.

        Regarding the Seahawks’ offense, under Bevell, we have always been kind of schizophrenic — we are aggressive when (1) we have good field position, and (2) we have our 2-minute drill going. But, we are passive and predictable when we have poor field position. It is frustrating, but it is hard to argue with success.

        • sdcoug

          schizophrenic is a great way to describe it! As far as arguing with success, what truly worries me is that our success the last few years has mostly come while walking a razor’s edge. Man, how many games did we have to claw back into or nip someone at the very end to pull out a win? What if those drives come up just a hair short next time? With a functioning first-half offense, this team could almost be unstoppable. It’s just a shame you usually waste a an entire quarter or two to get going

          • Phil

            I cringe when we receive the opening kickoff because it almost inevitably leads to three and out, unless we complete the predictable bootleg rollout pass to the TE on second down (following the equally predictable handoff to Marshawn on first down).

            • Volume12

              LOL. It’s PC football boys. Ugly and at times sloppy offense, but they do just enough. This isn’t an offense that has to do to much anyways. What’s concrrning? We’ve looked like this for 3-4 years now. It works.

              What other offensive coordinator fits this scheme better?

              • Phil

                Funny — as a UCLA grad, I suffered through years of watching USC’s high-octane offenses under PC, so I don’t think “it’s PC football.” I think that PC is the best there is at adapting “his” style to the collective talents of the players he has at any given time. So, he has had great running teams like the Seahawks, but he has also had great success with throwing the ball (3 Heismann winning QBs?).

                • Volume12

                  It’s PCs NFL brand of football.

                  • Jarhead

                    But didn’t we set an NFL record for largest margin of points scored versus points against back in 2012? We have seen that when Pete Carroll let’s things open up, we can put a bunch of points on the board. We have athletes in the right positions. I think there is more tenths than just PC brand of football

                  • Jarhead

                    In two consecutive weeks is the record to which I was referring

                  • Volume12

                    And there’s also more to it than just airing it out. His brand of football in the NFL has been as we know, running the ball, whch slows the game down by running out the clock, taking care of the ball, trusting what RW sees, playing the field position game, and physically punching teams in the face until their will-power breaks down. That style is going to be slow, sloppy, and at times not exciting.

                    Of course we’d all like to see some more rhytm and consistency, but it’s on the players to execute.

                    If he wants to open up the playbook I’m sure he will, but this offense shouldn’t have to with some of the playmakers we have. They’ve made back-to-back SBs on a fairly dumbed down offensive philosophy. Execution is key.

                  • CHawk Talker Eric

                    I don’t think it’s PC. Or at least it’s not only PC.

                    Since 2012, and speaking primarily of the offense, SEA have repeatedly demonstrated slow starts, not just to individual games, but to entire seasons.

                    It’s frustratingly difficult to point to one definite cause. Is it predictable play calling? Poor execution or pedestrian effort on the field? Opening kickoff nerves?

                    Whatever the reason(s), they also have demonstrated strong finishes, showing steely resolve in coming from behind to win key games (like the NFCCG), and within one play of repeating as world champs. Like PC says, it’s not how you start. It’s how you finish.

                    You know something V12, I think you’re right after all.

                    “It’s not how you start. It’s how you finish”.

                    That is PC’s brand of NFL football for sure.

      • manthony

        You better go back and read the blogs sdcoug, ‘very few were championing for him’ is not how i remember it at all. I remember plenty of positive commentary about his potential before we even drafted him.
        Afterwords their was some grumblings about what we gave up to get him, ive seen some of those people already admit they are glad we got him though.
        But its neither here nor there, you implying you were one ‘of few’ on the Lockett train before anyone else is funny but stupid at the same time.

        • sdcoug

          I read every single article and likely every comment for months leading up to the draft, thanks. There were a lot more against the idea of Lockett than for.

          • Radman

            the ‘slow start’ and “strong finish” is likely related to the offensive style which is to wear defenses down and dominate at the end. In this light, it makes a ton of sense that the team ‘struggles’ early and does better later on. However, I’d be really cautious of any numbers indicating this trend, as even in a multiyear study you’re dealing with a sample size small enough to not be all that reliable.

  7. redzone086

    Im just going to put out there that poor tackle by Murray on there 3rd or 4th rb to end the 3rd was sad. I was rooting for guys to step up with Kam out and this was not acceptable period.

  8. FattyAcid

    I tried to pay attention to 2 players through the first half. Cary Williams and Dion Bailey. Williams is garbage, I’ll be surprised if he outlasts his contract. How many times is he going to get beat this year??

    Dion Bailey, on the other hand seemed to be everywhere. He seems like the guy (if any) to possibly replace Kam. When Kam does come back, they have to find ways to get him on the field. I was really impressed.

    • Steele

      All of the knocks against Cary Williams were not exaggerations. Because JSPC signed him, and Richard praised him, everyone got comfortable assuming “well he’s in the LOB, that will automatically make him better”

      Nope.

      • CharlietheUnicorn

        Not having your starting SS and FS playing is impacting the pass defense. The value of these two players can’t be understated. If they were playing and Williams still looked like hot garbage, then I would be more concerned. If he is truly a bum, they will cut him and take the cap hit…. substandard play doesn’t keep you around the Seahawks for very long.

        • arias

          The problem is that they just CAN’T AFFORD the 2.3 mil cap hit they’d take to cut him this year seeing how they’re slammed up against the cap. They’d have to cut or restructure another player just to be able to cut Williams.

          • Robert

            Is Kearse + Williams better than neither??? If we actually cut another player so that we could afford to cut Williams, CW might require therapy in order to like himself again!

      • Robert

        Well, yeaaaah! PCJS have proven that they usually make excellent personnel decisions. And PC has proven that he is great at developing CB’s. So when they inked CW, most of us did some research, scowled a bit but decided to hope for the best and even expect that it would probably work out well based on so many supporting references.

  9. Turp

    Pete said postgame that Russell was dealing with a minor shoulder injury before the game and that it affected his throws tonight.

    • Barry

      I dont know what to think about that. Brand new contract, and he plays that many series? Making excuses for the offensive performance? I wonder if Pete might be worried also.

      Nice to see you on the blog Turp.

      • neil

        Is it just me, or does any one else find Wilson’s perputual pollyanna attitude vexing? Continuing saying everything is fine will not make it so. Everything is not fine. The only way to fix probllems is to first aknowledge them. Wilson has not played well. He looks a little slow and out of shape, and he has missed a number of completabe passes. I have a sinking feeling he has embraced his new life as ” multi million dollar playboy”.

        • JeffC

          RW has not had a great end to end game since the Arizona game last year on sunday night, that same game where Chris Collinsworth said, “How do you stop that…?” He’s been off since then. I wanted him signed and happy we have a franchise qb. But I am concerned big time. He’s playing more at the Kaepernick level than what we saw at the end of the regular season last year. The playoffs, including the Carolina game, he was not playing good ball.

    • Bjammin

      Pretty sure he was talking about okung why he did not play. Thus bailey lt.

    • Robert

      Huh??? Our LT Russell Okung was held out tonight because of a sore shoulder. Are you sure you have the right Russell???

      • bigDhawk

        Yeah, Pete was referring to Russell Okung, not Russell Wilson.

    • Bruce M.

      Pretty sure he was referring to Russell Okung. I didn’t hear anything about throws, and I did hear that “we held him out at the last minute”, which also sounds like Okung…

      • Turp

        Ah ok. I misheard. Apologies! Kids….they are distracting.

        Thanks for correction

  10. Steele

    I am still not convinced that Jimmy Graham can block.

    • CharlietheUnicorn

      In once instance, highlighted in the telecast….(I’m not sure where the play was designed to go originally…..) it appeared the play was supposed to hit up inside.. maybe “B” gap. Graham was fine and had good leverage, but the RB then broke off to the far right of the formation trying to make a big play… leaving him in a poor position to actually sustain the block without drawing a penalty.

      This was one of the few instances that I noticed him not doing the blocking job….. I spent more time watching Bailey mess-up and Poole mess-up at tackle than worry about if Graham can handle blocking.

      • Robert

        I don’t see any hope that Poole works out. His foot speed makes Britt look like one of those silly dancers from Ireland that never move their arms.

      • Bruce M.

        I thought Britt looked pretty bad overall. It was ole’ pass blocking and poor run blocking on any play that required anything other than firing out at the snap.

        Very discouraging. The guy does not seem to have the feet to be an NFL offensive lineman. Gets out of balance too easily, can’t recover quickly enough.

        As for Bailey, I’m going to have to take the coaches’ word for it that he lost that weight. Because he has plenty left over, and was being beaten like a drum on the left side in the pass rush.

        We do NOT want to start games with a Britt/Bailey left side.

        • Bruce M.

          But Gilliam held his own. I am starting to think we might actually get away with letting Okung walk (did y’all see what Trent Williams just signed for?) and moving Gilliam over to LT, then continuing our seemingly endless search for a RT….

  11. CA

    More of the same:

    Pass protection seemed a little shaky but the run blocking appeared fine, Turbin gashed and showed conviction into holes, as usual. Nothing really looked out of the ordinary though. The team is healing up and Okung will help come week 1. I would just like to see a little more assertiveness establishing the offense. Still vanilla, but we’ve seen this show before where the offense picks it up after making some aerial adjustments. Defense still looks good.

    Not good seeing the drop by Graham but again, it’s preseason. Ty Lockette looks dependable. D line looks deep. Cary needs work but he might get Winfielded by the regular season. Corner depth looks thin until Simon can or Lane can develop. Just stay healthy. Go Cougs.

    • JeffC

      I certainly hope that Pete and Bevell are hiding the playbook and purposely revealing nothing for the opener. Because frankly, that offense is embarrassing and boring to watch. It’s pretty bad when you look more forward to a punt return from Lockett than preparing for another three and out from this offense.

      • bigDhawk

        True about the punt returns.

        Pete did say in his post-game presser that they are deliberately holding back on offense, so the optimist in me would like to chalk our present woes up to that. However, that does not explain Russell’s glaring passing inaccuracy at times. I’ll keep saying it – this whole emphasis on pocket passing this season is a bad idea.

        • AlaskaHawk

          Except they have been letting Archer run a full offense with roll outs and planned QB runs. So who do they think they are fooling. Every year I get frustrated that the offense is worse then some other teams (philly). Every year they are worse but the defense saves them. Sigh. Let’s hope they pull their stuff together by regular season.

        • CharlietheUnicorn

          When you do not have Lynch in the backfield, you are holding back the play book, due to the fact one of your KEY players is not playing.

          • bigDhawk

            What does that say about our inevitable future without him, I wonder?

            • Bruce M.

              It says bad things. But I think they are thinking that Russell will be able to compensate somewhat for Lynch’s absence by then, while not changing their run-heavy philosophy completely.

              If that’s the plan, then they better get cracking on getting a bell cow back to replace the Beast, because that player is clearly not on the roster now…

              • Volume12

                Speaking of, Melvin Godon looks frustrating. A little like C-mike. All the talent in the world, but appears to lack the little things.

                Gordon stopping his feet when receiving the handoff is an awful habit that will take some time to fix.

                • JeffC

                  CMike has been frustrating in general, but honestly, I haven’t been unhappy with him this preseason. He had the one fumble in bad conditions and a blown Gilliam block, and that one play where he totally brain fogged. I get that. But when I see an article on field gulls where the writer was criticizing his effort on that 29 yard run and not getting into the end zone, I think the witch hunt has gone too far. People are obsessing and judging him on that one fumble, and now he can’t do anything right.

                  Every preseason game you’ll hear Brock, or Danny, or Jim say “I’m looking at CMike because one more bad game he’s gone…” I think objectivity has completely disappeared in regards to him.

                  • Volume12

                    I thought C-mike looked pretty good as well. He’s so explosive. His pass blocking looks improved too. He’s almost at that point where things click for him. He’ll string together a few good plays, and then make a bone-headed play as you said, but some of that is just trusting the scheme (ZB) and his eyes.

                    The lanes or holes are there for him, but for whatever reason he’s not cutting his runs back. Once he does that, dude’s gonna be a huge weapon!

        • Steele

          RW has to develop into a good pocket passer for his own long-term health. Now is as good a time to practice it, even if it means ugly. It is clearly not his strength. But that said, he looks much more hesitant than he did in 2012/2013.

          • Radman

            I’m not at all convinced that spending more time in the pocket is going to be a healthy decision for RW.

            I am somewhat concerned that essentially disregarding pass blocking for the O line, and buying into the Cable system full stop while asking him to pass from the pocket more has (or will) generated bad footwork in RW. This is one way good young QBs become mediocre ones- playing behind O lines they don’t trust.

            I’ve never been one to buy into Cable’s system. My confidence is at an all time low in this regard. I think his belief that he can take a ‘guy off the street’ and make him a serviceable lineman is alarmingly stupid, evidenced by the fact that he’s really only been able to do it for one player so far. I think his estimation of Sweezy as one of the best guards in the league is even more bizarre. I know those aren’t popular opinions in these parts, so I won’t argue them too hard. .

  12. CharlietheUnicorn

    I enjoyed seeing the vanilla defense during the 1st drive, turn on a dime and start attacking with various blitzes (CB or LB) during the second or third series by the Chargers. It thoroughly confused them. The bonus was that they never quite got back on track the rest of the game. I’m not sure it would be sustainable over a 16 game season, due to the fact you are more susceptible to “explosive” plays (see the pass that went to the RB for a TD). We know, PC hates these types of plays by opposing offenses.

    • sdcoug

      That was great wasn’t it? I’m sure they just wanted to work on a blitz package a bit, but it felt more like a “Hell No” moment finally getting fed up with offenses dinking and dunking down the field. It was fun to see us attack, and momentarily shut up Phil Sims re: how fast the Chargers are

      • AlaskaHawk

        I don’t think Arizona has suffered that much from their 5 man blitzes.

        • Volume12

          Arizona was burned down the seams how many times last year?

          Blitzing in spots and keys is smart. Going all-out is not.

          • Bruce M.

            They had a LB who just could not stay with TEs on seam routes, as I recall. Good player, but age had caught up to him in pass defense…

          • Trevor

            I agree they need to be careful on blitzes but I really liked the increase in aggressive play calling from Richards. I think a little of it was in response to SDs safety blitz in pre season but who knows.

            Last year some of the team that played ball control keep away against us like SD and then NE had success because they were precise and we got no pressure. I think an increase in blitzes even just to keep the opposition on their toes will be a bonus. With a pass rush unit like we have lets use it particularly with how well our Dbs play in press.

            I have been very happy with the Defense in pre season given all the injuries. I think we have great depth on that side of the ball. It is the polar opposite to our OL.

  13. line_hawk

    Among other news, Trent Williams got 11 APY. Does this price Okung out of Seattle? If he has a good injury free year, no reason why he can’t get >10 APY. At which point Seattle likely cannot afford him.

    • Robert

      Okung was too injured to play at all tonight. This time it was his shoulder. When he is 40+ years old, I predict he pulls a muscle tying his shoe. And it could be anything: shoulder, calf, hamstring, back, even a small muscle in his hand or fingers. But that dude IS going to pull a muscle tying his shoe some day! Offer him 6M and let him walk…or limp.

      • bigDhawk

        Given his track record, Okung’s shoulder injury holdout for this game tells you all you need to know about his dependability as an extension candidate.

  14. James

    my $0.02….

    – the same demon that possessed Michael Bowie last year seems to have entered Alvin Bailey’s body… anyone know a good exorcist? It appears that the swing tackle will have to be Terry Poole.

    – this loathsome dink-and-dunk offense often gives us fits, but it can rarely score enough points to win a game against an elite D, since it can’t deliver in the red zone. Remember that teams run this garbage mainly because their QB has no arm strength (see Rivers and Manning). I loved how Kris Richard responded, by attacking with blitzes knowing that he didn’t have to worry about the deep ball. Could it be that the Seahawks will finally maximize their dominance, especially with what appears to be an outstanding pass rush from Avril, Bennett, Clark, Marsh, Hill and Irvin?

    – I am seeing a trend that I’m not sure how to adjust to, and that is teams are putting a whole bevy of 250# pass rushers in on obvious passing situations. There is much talk about how offensive lines across the league are struggling, and this is why. I saw several situations where both Alvin Bailey and Justin Britt were facing 250# OLBs, and they just whiffed at them (yes, SD lined up OLBs at DT on some passing downs). Unless an O lineman has elite quicks, like Okung and Gilliam, they just can’t block these little leo-types. The only response I can see is to run right at them, since they can be blown back off the line, but when you are at 3rd and long, odds are you are not going to pick up the needed yardage by with draws and dives. It will be interesting to see how O coordinators respond to this trend.

    • Phil

      Word has spread that the way to beat the Seahawks is by dinking and dunking. But, it was gratifying to see the success our D had once we really turned up the pressure. Getting pressure from our inside DL like Hill and sometimes Clark and Bennett will be critical against teams who want to employ these “death by a thousand cuts” offenses.

      • sdcoug

        I just posted this same reply above, but had to respond. I’m sure they just wanted to work on a blitz package a bit, but it felt more like a “Hell No” moment finally getting fed up with offenses dinking and dunking down the field. Fun wasn’t it?

      • FattyAcid

        This “dinking and dunking” won’t go very far for them when Kam gets back, and players fear for their lives when they slant across the middle.

        • Phil

          I’m not so sure that having Kam back is the answer. Wasn’t he on the field during the superbowl when Edelman and Vereen caught pass after pass just behind our DL and in front of our LBs? Or when SD beat us last year? It is pretty easy to negate Kam’s influence by sending Gronkowski or Antonio Gates on a deep route to occupy Kam. I haven’t watched tape of last year’s loss to the Chargers but I would not be surprised if the TD passes that Gates caught were on plays where Kam was cheating up to try to break up some of the dinks and dunks.

          • Volume12

            Why are you worried about ‘dinking and dunkng?’ There’s maybe 5 teams in the NFL that are equipped to attack this defense correctly. And even then, you better put some points on the board.

            • Steele

              They should be extremely worried about dink-dunk. Any obvious tactic that works consistently will be applied consistently. Five teams? If it remains an achilles heel, every team will try and succeed.

              I think the problem has been that the Hawks did not have the smaller twitchier quicker types on the roster to ideally match up. Has this changed? I don’t see it.

              • Volume12

                Every team can try. Point is, only a handful of offenses have the personnel to do it.

          • Ed

            Yes, Kam gave up at least 1 TD to Gates. Our Dline looks good. Williams or Simon and our slot corner need to play better, if so, we will be great on D.

            Our Oline has been and will continue to be. While Cable does a good job of turning Dline into Oline, the entire philosophy if flawed. Let’s just start drafting Oline better and higher. Since 2009:

            1st rd picks: 10′ Okung; 11′ Carpenter
            2nd rd picks: 09′ Unger; 14′ Britt
            3rd rd picks: 11′ Moffitt

            Carpenter did not meet expectations. Moffitt quit football. Unger and Okung were always hurt and Britt was overdrafted.

            Time to rethink the drafting and oline philosophy. It’s not working. Next year, our big needs will again be Oline and maybe Dline.

            • Trevor

              I agree keep cable out of the draft room. We have been as lousy picking OL as we have been incredible picking DBs since Cable showed up. Okung was pre-Cable and the only competent lineman we have on the roster. Gilliam has really showed however and in my eyes has the best potential of any of the lineman on our roster and he was an UDFA.

              This is by far the most knowledgeable site out there for Hawks info but I cannot believe all the people on this site who said how improved though out 2015 Britt was and the potential he had breakout in 2016. He is not an NFL calibre offensive lineman and does not have the physical skills to be one. The most we can ever hope for is that he improves as a run blocking guard. I really believe they would be much better had they just started a rookie like Glowinski who is familiar with the position and had the talent to at least be average to above average. I think Cable just does not want to admit he blew it on that pick who was clearly his.

              • RealRhino2

                Amen! Just think how much better shape we’d be in right now if (a) instead of Richardson and Britt they’d taken Bitonio last year, like many/most of us wanted, and (b) instead of using two 4th-round picks on Poole and Glowinski, two guys who look at least a year away from even attaining subpar, we had been able to pool those picks and take 4th-rounder Daryl Williams, a mauler of an RT that it was rumored they wanted (and I wanted) and who hasn’t allowed a single QB pressure all preseason.

                Maybe it’s cherrypicking, but it’s not like many of us weren’t clamoring for some useful guys they passed up.

              • JeffC

                I’m with you, I wasn’t one of those who expected a breakout from Britt. He was overdrafted and I would not be shocked if after his rookie contract is done he signs with the Jets, where our rejects tend to end up.

    • Ho Lee Chit

      “– I am seeing a trend that I’m not sure how to adjust to, and that is teams are putting a whole bevy of 250# pass rushers in on obvious passing situations. There is much talk about how offensive lines across the league are struggling, and this is why. I saw several situations where both Alvin Bailey and Justin Britt were facing 250# OLBs, and they just whiffed at them.”

      Well, perhaps the offensive coordinators should substitute in a couple 250# offensive guards on passing downs to keep up with the speed on defense. These guys could be backup TE’s or DE’s the rest of the time.

    • neil

      Remember the dink and dunk , ” just move the chains” offense got us to super bowl xl with Hasselb eck.

      • Volume12

        Yup. They also punched it into the end zone.

        I know Seattle isn’t going to be satisfied with keeping their defense on the field for long stretches or not getting stops on 3rd downs, but if we’ve learned anything from their defensive philosophy, it’s about limiting explosive plays, and not getting beat over the top.

        I think Richard’s willingness to blitz will be a big advantage for this D. We have guys with speed that blitz very effectively. I hope he’ll continue too when needed.

    • neil

      remember the dink and dunk offense ” just move the chains” got us to super bowl xl with Hasselbeck.

  15. Volume12

    Love the blitzing element that Richard appears ready to use. It fits the type of athletes that we have. KJ, Bruce, etc. Very excited to see that.

    DE Cassius Marsh is a man possessed. STs demon, plays with his hair on fire. He’s a hustle player, not a technician. He adds even more attitude and swagger to this defense.

    What’s with all ethe ‘this offense is boring?’ Ya think? You mean a run first, play-actiom, scramble package offense isn’t sexy? You don-t gameplan for pre-season. It’s all about not putting too much on the young guys plates, and juat letting them play. RW is off a little, but damn man he’s not a precision passer. He’ll hit those throws when the games matters.

    What more can be said about Lockett and Clark? 2 players that are impactful, unique, electryfing that will be core members of this team for years to come.

    • DC

      Talk about rookies with immediate impact. Loving Clark & Lockett as well. Best rookie duo we’ve had since Wagner & Wilson.

  16. John Goodwyn

    I was trying to figure who #36 was that guy sucked (Ryan rookie) he look bad stiff armed on a open tackle for a TD poor coverage oh Boy we need work in the Def backfield.

  17. Steele

    It may be plainer vanilla for preseason, but the stagnant first half offense is worrisome. A stagnant, sputtering offense for entire first halves has gotten to be a bad habit that they must break.

    There are many root causes. What I don’t hear discussed is how the passing game is so much worse at the moment than 2012 and 2013, games where RW moved the team aggressively, sometimes at will. I think the WRs—Sid, Golden, healthy Zach Miller, etc—were the difference.

    • Volume12

      Yeah they definetly need another receiver. If most of these jr’s come out, should make for another good class.

  18. CharlietheUnicorn

    http://streamable.com/r20u?t=0.1

    • cha

      As requested by Sherman

      Richard Sherman ✔@RSherman_25
      Someone has to dub the Mario kart sounds over @TDLockett12 returns….”here we go!”
      Follow
      Who is Jose Rivera? @whoisjoserivera
      .@RSherman_25 @TDLockett12 I got you, Richard || “Tyler Lockett Punt Return TD (Mario Kart Edition)”

  19. Steve Nelsen

    I’m not worried about Cary Williams. If he doesn’t improve, he will be replaced by Thimon as a starter. He hasn’t looked good but he he has had just this off-season to learn the Seattle technique. Same thing with Blackmon at nickel corner. Burley and Seisay look like they can cover the quick slot guys with Simon matching up against the bigger guys.

    Dion Bailey looks like a solid “next man up” for Kam. The safety depth in general is encouraging.

    The D-line rotation and the front 7 are as deep and talented as we’ve ever had.

    Gilliam and Nowak were solid again. No sacks allowed is a positive. Britt just had his second start at guard and he has room to improve. But, he looks better than anyone else fighting for that guard spot.

    Kevin Smith looks like a solid bet to make the final 53. The jury is still out on Kearse, Ricardo Lockette and Chris Matthews in my mind although various experts project each of them as “locks” to make the roster.

    • Volume12

      The real battle appears to be for that last receiver spot. Is it going to be BJ or ‘one a day’ aka Kevin Smith? One of these U-dub wideouts will end up on the PS or red-shirted. But that’s me hoping.

      Kearse ain’t going nowhere this year.

      • cha

        I wonder how much BJ’s ability to be the emergency QB plays into it, with Tarvaris not 100%.

      • Trevor

        Vol please tell me why Kearse is going nowhere. I have seen him do nothing in the 3 pre-season games and he was terrible last year outside of a couple of clutch catches. I know he plays special teams but is that really a reason to keep both him and Ricardo? Fo a team up against the cap for me those would be the first 2 guys to go.

        • Volume12

          Their not cutting a guy that makes big plays, RW/PC and staff are clearly comfortable with, and knows the nuances of the position. Maybe he’s not around next year, but you can’t depend on rookies all the time or a guy like Norwood who hasn’t done anything nor does the staff appear to have much confidence in him.

          • Trevor

            I am not arguing that Kearse is not better than Norwood as I question if he will make the team as well. I just think he is the 4th best receiving option after Baldwin, Lockett and Matthews so why waste 2.2 in cap space on your 4th best receiving option.

            • Volume12

              Until someone unseats him or beats him out, they’ll ‘waste’ 2 mil on him.

            • rowdy

              I agree with vol, there’s a lot of talk about how deep we are at receiver but don’t really see it. Baldwin and Kearse are the only ones with a good amount of nfl game time. Lockett is a lock at this point but every one else you can make a case to get cut. I’m pretty sure mathews make the team, I would be shocked If he didnt. I think lockette will make it for st and knowledge of the system. Smith has put his name in the running and bj is a long shot but is versatile. Norwood hasn’t done anything at all, can’t see him making it. Whoever the 6th wr is will probably just be holding Richardson place til he gets back.

              Baldwin
              Kearse
              Lockett
              Mathews
              Richardson
              Smith/lockett

              I don’t see them having more the 6 or less

              • Volume12

                Exactly. Completely agree about P-Rich. If he can stay healthy, and playing in somewhat of a rotation should help him, he’ll add an explosive element on the outside. It’s such a shame he got hurt. RW was really starting to trust him and his game was coming along nicely late last season.

                I do think they’ll add a possession receiver in the draft with Kearse being a FA, Matthews being a RFA.

                • DC

                  Interested to see how they use Graham & Willson together. Pete has been after 2 good TEs since the early days here. If Willson’s hands get consistent they will make a fearsome duo.

                  • Volume12

                    Very excited for that myself. If I had to guess, that would be something they’ll unveil duing the regular season. Haven’t seen a lot of Luke this off-season, teams will sleep on him, but the ‘Bash bros.’ should be huge for us. I’d be surprised if we don’ see it against St. Louis.

                • rowdy

                  The cushion defenders gave him was unreal.

    • CharlietheUnicorn

      I’m of the opinion…. C Mathews is not making the team. He has been injured or ineffective the whole training camp. I’m a big fan of the rookie ex UW WRs. Both have shown up in the preseason and made some big plays.

      • Trevor

        So you cut the guy who had over 100 yds receiving in the Super Bowl to keep Kasen Willams who has 2 pre season catches? I like both him and Kevin Smith but lets get real.

        • Trevor

          For our WR corp. I like Balwin, T.Lockette, Matthews, Smith, Daniels and K.Williams or Norwood with Richardson coming off PUP mid season hopefully knocking off whomever is not making the grade. Save the cap space and cut Kearse and R.Lockette.

          • RealRhino2

            I keep hearing “save the cap space.” For what? No sense saving Kearse’s cap money if you can’t turn it into something useful, because I think you hurt the WR corps by doing so. No way they cut him, given that he’s proved he can do what most everybody who wants to cut him only *thinks” that Smith, Norwood and Williams (heck, even Matthews) can do.

            The guy I’d cut is probably Daniels. I keep hearing he “adds value” as an emergency 3rd QB. That has no value to me. If we’ve already lost Wilson and Jackson in a game, we’ve lost that game anyway. Direct snap to Marshawn all game for all I care. Great, he can be a backup punt returner, but I don’t think he’s the “receiver” that Smith, Norwood or Williams is, so keep the best receiver.

            • Trevor

              Because they are going to be over the cap after cuts unless a vet or two get cut or restructure.

            • AlaskaHawk

              Daniels has done okay as a receiver, better then Kearse. Of course he has seen a lot more passes his way. I’m suprised they haven’t given Daniels any reps as a QB. Since he is so versatile. Archer looked okay the first two games but pretty bad that last game. So I think Archer will be cut. Daniels will be on the practice squad.

              If Smith is that kick returner/running back/wide receiver, I like him and hope he becomes a starter. Or is that two guys I’ve been watching?

              • AlaskaHawk

                I figured out I’ve been watching two different players. They both seem good. It’s just tough getting onto the roster now.

      • sdcoug

        No way Matthews is cut. Pete has been search for his big WR since he walked through the front door

        • Ho Lee Chit

          I could see a lot of balls going toward Tyler Lockett and Baldwin. We need a better short passing game. Graham is the first target. Chris Matthews is the tall WR for the opposite side. The guys that are neither tall nor quick out of their breaks are the ones in danger. In that group I would put Kearse, Richardo Lockette and Kevin Norwood. I think they keep Kearse another year. Norwood, Kasen Williams and Kevin Smith get a ticket to the PS.

      • arias

        He has not been injured or ineffective the whole training camp. You’re wildly exaggerating seeing how he was injured in the first preseason game and had been taking all the first team WR reps before that.

        • AlaskaHawk

          They are resting all the first string that have any minor issue. Witness Okung and his shoulder. They will be playing when the regular season starts.

          • arias

            Good point.

  20. Trevor

    Because they are going to be over the cap after cuts unless a vet or two get cut or restructure.

  21. Miles

    Hey, the Colts released former starting G Donald Thomas today. He has had major injury issues though, tearing his quad twice. He last played in a regular season game in September of ’13. I wonder if the Hawks would want to take a look at him if A) He fits the physical profile and B) If they want to continue the LG battle into the regular season.

    He was due $3.5m this year, I believe, which is why he was released. He just came off PUP last week.

    • AlaskaHawk

      Should be about 2×32 teams linemen cut by Tuesday. Seahawks can take their pick.

  22. Volume12

    Speaking of big receivers, Seattle scouts were recently sniffing around at Cincinnati’s training camp.

    WR Mekale McKay is a beast! 6’5, 215 lbs. (added 20 pounds this off-season), former basketball player, has speed, good production, career average of over 20 per catch, transferred from Arkansas, and has a bit of a Vince Mayle like backstory. Keep an eye on him, IMO he’ll be a fast riser with another good year.

    • Steele

      As long as the Hawks are checking Cincy, they should take a look at Denarius Moore. Bengals cut him because their roster is crowded, didn’t need him. He’s 26. In the right system, he’d be solid.

      • Volume12

        I meant University of Cincinnati, but I’m assuming you knew that. Yeah, Moore was a solid player for Oakland a couple of years ago. He’d make a nice acquistion for sure.

  23. Trevor

    Guess Norwood got cut today so that narrows down the options for the last 2 spots on the WR corp. Assuming Baldwin, Lockett, Matthew and Kearse are locks. Seems like 2 of 4 (Lockette, Smith, Willliams or Daniels). I personally am rooting for Williams and Smith.

    • Steele

      Norwood is gone. But this doesn’t clarify the WR picture, in terms of quality of the depth. They are comfortable with the existing corps, but I just don’t see any truly great WR on the roster. (And I do not count Jimmy Graham.) Baldwin continues to be a the #1, even though he really should be slot. Kearse is a perennial lock out of habit, even though he remains inconsistent (and even if he were consistent, is not “great”). Matthews has the tools but has not noticeably stepped up and is hurt. Lockette is sporadic and kept for ST.

      Everyone knows Lockett is brilliant as a returner. As an outside WR, his lack of size remains an issue, and it showed in that attempted long ball in the Chargers game that the taller defender stopped. The same with P-Rich. He is small for an outside threat.

      The others—BJ, Kasen—just look like PSders.

      It is still a far cry from having Sid Rice and Golden Tate, which put Baldwin and Kearse to their better lesser roles.

      • Trevor

        I agree it is amazing how Tate is thriving in Detroit He really was the prototype Seahawk. I still have no idea how they let him go. If he is on our roster last year with his punt returns alone it we win the SB and it never comes down to the last play. For me trading for Harvin and then letting Tate walk are really the only blemishes on Schneiders incredible tenure as GM thus far. There have been some missed draft picks but he was the only home grown star they let walk out the door whom I really thought could not be replaced with what they had on the roster. Harvin was supposed to and we see how that worked out.

        • Volume12

          I think Lockett will give them everything they thought Harvin would and with more upside. I heard Seattle wants to average 30 yards this season on returns.

          I agree that they are still missing that Sidney Rie type.

          • AlaskaHawk

            Makes you wonder what would have happened if they offered the Tate and Baldwin, the two team leaders in yardage a decent contract. Lets say Tate and Baldwin got 6 million each, or roughly the same amount that Harvin or Graham get. Not saying they are brilliant receivers, but they were good for 700-800 yards every year on a low yardage team.

            I guess we got that choice again next year when Matthew comes off his rookie salary of $550,000. Plus Baldwin won’t stick around forever. PC knows how to pick cheap receivers, he just can’t keep the good ones.

  24. Trevor

    Question for all if a guy gets cut and you you pick him up on waivers, do you pick up the contract as well or does he sign a new deal?

    • CHawk Talker Eric

      If you pick him up off waivers, you take his contract – or the rights to negotiate a contract.

      If he clears waivers, he’s a free agent – no contract, no rights.

      • Trevor

        Thanks

  25. Trevor

    Vol 12 any of the small school guys you loved in the 2015 draft make an impression so far in camp? Anyone we should keep an eye on?

    • Volume12

      Thanks for asking buddy. Do you mean for other teams that are potential cuts?

      • Trevor

        Yeah I have no idea who most of the guys are I was just wondering if you saw anyone from your wish list that played well in pre season.

      • Volume12

        If you do…2 DTs. Idaho’s Quayshawne Buckley, UL-Lafayette’s Justin Hamilton. Really like LB Reshard Cliett currently with Houston, CB Charles Gaines IDK if he has enough length for Seattle. DL David Irving, haven’t gotten to see Baltimore, but perhaps OL Robert Myers. Edge rusher Darius Allen, he’s not a small school player, but OG Josue Matias. I haven’t gotten to watch too many teams this pre-season.

        • Volume12

          I should mention that I’m assumimg some of these names will get cut. Buckley and Hamilton already were. WR Kenny Cook was a guy I liked out of Gardner&Webb that KC just cut, but with Seattle having added Greenberry already IDK if he’s a guy to monitor.

          Other than Buckley or Hamilton, one name jumped out at me. He’s not from a small school, but Miami just cut him. Georgia DL Ray Drew. Former 5 star recruit, versatile, huge personality, and Seattle brought him into the VMAC this year.

          • Trevor

            Yeah I remember Drew being discussed. Wonder if they give him a try. Not much room on our DL though. Would love to see a couple of quality veteran centers or guards get cut.

            If Okung and Gilliam stay healthy I think we are set at Tackle with what I have seen so far. Sweezy will be fine at RT but I have no confidence in Novak at center or Britt at LG. We could definitely use some depth if those guys struggle because Bailey has looked awful in preseason.

            • Trevor

              Sweezy at RG

              • Volume12

                Yeah Bailey has been dissappointing. Very impressed with Gilliam though. Showed some good toughness Saturday. I’d expect them to draft a C and a guy that can play LG/RT early on in this upcoming draft.

                • arias

                  I agree, Gilliam really has been impressive at RT. Looks like a natural over there. A little more concerning to me is Britt’s play at LG, which I thought was supposed to be a better fit for him. I expect he’ll grow into the role, but he did not look good against the Chargers.

                  • cha

                    Maybe with Gilliam they can run that “jumbo” package they’ve featured with Bailey in the past. Only with Bailey as the RT and Gilliam as the extra blocker and have either a dynamite run to the right side option or have Gilliam split off for a short option pass for a first down.

          • Steele

            Greenberry got waived. I liked Kenny Cook as well.

  26. CHawk Talker Eric

    Didn’t get to watch the game until today, but wanted to point out a couple of positives.

    Gilliam and Sweezy look really comfortable playing next to each other. It’s highly encouraging.

    Examples – 1st play of the 2nd drive – Gilliam/Sweezy execute a perfect double team block – heck they’re still driving the defender backwards 5 yards in front of Turbin when he gets tackled.

    Same drive – the 1st & 10 seam pass overthrow to Graham. Gilliam gets beat outside-in by Melvin Ingram. Sweezy looks like he’s supposed to help Nowak, but he keeps his eye on Gilliam and slides over to pancake Ingram and save the sack.

    The actual replay is much more compelling than my meager descriptions.

    It’s too soon to panic about Britt. His play was pretty awful – there was that holding call on CMike’s first carry. Even without the penalty, Britt got beat badly after initially engaging his defender. But he was playing next to Bailey after all and he is still learning a new position.

    Switching over to D, Jesse Williams has improved every game. On the 1st defensive series of the 2nd quarter, Williams blows up DJ Fluker – flat out beats him off the snap, gets underneath him and drives him into the backfield. Fluker recovers well enough by locking onto Williams and turning him out of the play. But that wasn’t the plan. Fluker got lucky.

    Marsh is starting to remind me of a rookie Earl Thomas. So fast and athletic, he’s everywhere all over the field making plays on D and ST, but he’s a bit out of control, which prevents him from being in position to make the play even if he did spectacularly just getting close to the ball. I’m not saying his ceiling is as high as ET’s, but if he can get some savvy to his game, he’s going to be a baller.

    • Volume12

      Marsh is quickly becoming oe of my favorite players. He plays with so much emotion, and wears his heart on his sleeve, that yes, he can over pursue or not ‘finish.’ The only thing that will help that though is reps and experience.

      Not a bad comp at all to ET. Quite interesting actually. They both have that ‘balls to the wall’ style as you pointed out.

© 2024 Seahawks Draft Blog

Theme by Anders NorenUp ↑