This is a guest article by Curtis Allen. After the game tonight, tune into the instant reaction live stream which will be available on here and on our YouTube channel
Welcome to a whole new cycle of Seahawks football. The team has shed themselves of two of the greatest players in franchise history, brought in a whole new defensive staff and recommitted to key areas like the offensive line, pass rush and the cornerbacks.
We are about to see the first official results of this experiment. What better way to get started on the new than to face the old, lined up right across from you?
This game will be filled with all kinds of palace intrigue. The relationship troubles between Russell Wilson and Pete Carroll over the years have been aired in a very passive-aggressive manner. A thinly veiled threat here, a leak there, a clearly staged photo op with hugs and smiles and press conference statements that doth protest a bit too much all made for high drama in Seattle. They even handled themselves after the trade in the same way, with couched language wrapped in a wry smile and a wink.
We will see the truth of the matter in their actions on the field.
Both are very proud figures. Both have never budged on their football philosophy. Both have the ambition to prove their viewpoint was more effective. Therefore, both will have more than the usual incentive to win this game.
There will be some hard feelings being played out on the field Monday night. Who will come out on top? There is a possibility that this game will be the only time Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson ever face each other in their storied careers. They might not get another chance to make their statement.
So buckle up. This is appointment watching.
Before we address the elephant in the room, let’s start with a factor that could be crucial for the Seahawks.
The Seahawks Must Use the Unknown to Their Favor
A Week One matchup might be the best-case scenario for the Seahawks in facing Russell Wilson and the Broncos. It might be too much to ask a new quarterback with a brand-new head coach to come out firing on all cylinders right out of the gate. That is obvious.
What is less obvious is there will also be a feature that the Denver offense may struggle with that is beyond the typical ‘new quarterback new coach growing pains’ dynamic: Russell Wilson is not the easiest quarterback to play with. His superpower of relying on his ability to extend plays takes some getting used to.
Offensive linemen are required to be effective longer than they normally would. They cannot intuitively know where Wilson will be or which way he is going to go when the play breaks down. This can cause some traffic jams at the edges of the pocket and some holding calls that backs up the offense.
Then there’s the receivers. They will need to grasp that if they get to the end of their route and the ball is not coming to them, the play is not necessarily over. They will have to keep running and find pockets to scramble into to provide a target for Wilson. That does not naturally come to every player. For some it needs to be learned over time.
The Seahawks will need to take advantage, particularly early in the game, if the Denver offense has challenges getting going.
Another factor is the Seahawks’ track record in the last two season openers. In 2020 and 2021, they scored convincing wins by successfully implementing new elements that caught their opponent off guard:
- In 2020 against the Falcons, they only ran the ball with their running backs 13 times, preferring to use them nearly as much in the passing game. Russell Wilson had a career-highlight passing day and after the game Atlanta Defensive Coordinator Raheem Morris publicly fell on his sword, saying they had not prepared for the Seahawks to throw that much.
- New weapon Jamal Adams had probably his best day as a Seahawk, with 12 tackles, a sack, 2 pressures, a QB knockdown, and 2 tackles for loss, causing all kinds of trouble for the Atlanta offense.
- In 2021 against the Colts, the Seahawks came out with some brilliant misdirection in the running game, utilizing Chris Carson well and keeping a very good Colt defensive line off balance.
That game was also Darrell Taylor’s coming out party. He announced his presence with authority, as if he were trying to make up for a whole missed season in one game.
What surprises do the Seahawks have in store this year?
Who will be the player that catches the Broncos off guard and has an impact? Uchenna Nwosu? Dee Eskridge? Tariq Woolen? Ken Walker as a receiver? Or will it be Clint Hurtt’s scheme?
It will be very intriguing to watch.
Defend Russell Wilson
Pete Carroll said Monday that he knows Russell better than any other player he’s worked with. Can he use that to his advantage? You have to believe the minute he traded Wilson to Denver, Carroll started collecting his ten years of experiences with him to devise ways to beat him on defense.
Nathaniel Hackett and Wilson will have some new wrinkles schemed up to be sure. Yet even the best players in the NFL have habits and plays they revert to when under pressure. Hackett of all people probably knows this better than anyone after working with Aaron Rodgers.
Some of Wilson’s habits, in a nutshell:
- He loves to throw to the edges of the field, between the numbers and the sideline
- Inside pressure obscures his vision and forces him to make decisions faster than he would like
- A good deal of his magic happens when he gets out of the pocket and buys time for his receivers
- If his offensive line is not adept at adjusting to blitzes, he will struggle
The move to more of a 3-4 defense will really benefit the Seahawks against Wilson when you consider these factors. Why?
In their standard package, they will have three big-bodied defenders occupying the inside. This is designed to keep the lanes clogged and limit inside escape routes for the quarterback. On the outside, the linebackers are lighter and faster, which means they have the angle to create a ‘horseshoe’ around the quarterback.
Pretty standard stuff but Russell Wilson needs to be contained. Yes, he can do plenty of damage from the pocket. When he gets outside of the hash marks and buys time for his receivers, that can be real trouble for the defense.
The best thing the Seahawks can do is get pressure from their standard alignment. Making Wilson uncomfortable in the pocket and still having their full coverage package available would do wonders towards keeping this game in a manageable state.
They can help themselves tremendously with some clever blitz packages though. Jamal Adams can have an enormous impact this game if he is properly utilized. Jordyn Brooks has shown an ability to shoot gaps and get to the passer. The Seahawks even blitzed lightning-fast Tariq Woolen from the corner spot in preseason.
Clint Hurtt will have to dial up some formations that show Wilson several different looks. The best thing he can do is keep him guessing on where the rush is coming from. It takes processing power and keeps him from focusing on what the defensive backs are doing downfield.
A sneaky advantage that I alluded to earlier is that it confuses the offensive line and creates openings and mismatches.
Have a look at this beauty from Vance Joseph in the notorious Week 7 game against the Cardinals:
Great time for his first career sack.#SNF x @byronmurphy pic.twitter.com/ITk6gI7XDF
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) October 26, 2020
On a 3rd and 11 in overtime, Joseph stacks the defensive line with 7 players. He had utilized this formation earlier in the game.
On this play, he drops 4 of the 7 into coverage and blitzes the nickel Byron Murphy who is completely free to make the sack.
Watch the Seahawks offensive line there. Dissly, Shell and Lewis are blocking one man. Ethan Pocic has nothing to do. Simmons and Brown have a man to share. Deejay Dallas nicely picks up Buddha Baker but the damage is done.
By the end of the game, Wilson was rattled and (off the same stacked-line formation) throws a lame ball for an interception to seal the game:
ISAIAH SIMMONS. INTERCEPTED.
📺: #SEAvsAZ on NBC
📱: NFL app // Yahoo Sports app: https://t.co/FSTZl0ocgC pic.twitter.com/7iBDB8qJQr— NFL (@NFL) October 26, 2020
I’m not suggesting that the Seahawks specifically emulate these formations. Rather it is a matter of throwing looks at Russ and building a pattern for him to process. Then spidering that pattern out in variations that keep the processing on the pass rush and away from the pass coverage.
Denver’s offensive line is fine. Adequate. They surrendered 40 sacks last year with Teddy Bridgewater behind it and return most of their starters this year. Clint Hurtt and the defense need to challenge this squad. And the earlier in the game, the better.
************
A big key to limiting Wilson’s effectiveness? Pressure him to carry the team. The run defense must limit the impact that Javonte Williams will have.
That is not going to be an easy task. Seattle’s run defense was terrible last year – 29th in the NFL. And unless Clint Hurtt can scheme up some ways for carryovers Al Woods, Poona Ford and Bryan Mone to be more effective, Williams could have a field day and take a ton of the pressure off of Wilson.
Scheming is really a secondary issue through. What is going to make or break the run defense? Tackling. The defense was very poor in this area in the preseason, to the point where Pete Carroll acknowledged it and scheduled some extra drills in practice.
Hopefully the team’s work pays off. It better, because in Javonte Williams, the Seahawks get last year’s tackle breaking champion in their first week. Williams broke a tackle every 6.5 runs in 2021. Nobody else was even close.
Again I say Jamal Adams needs to have a big game. If he is an active tackler and can limit the yards the Broncos get on the ground and then have an impact in the pass rush, the defense might be able to do enough to give the offense some chances.
Run the Ball. A Lot.
There is no argument – none – that says the Seahawks should regularly ask Geno Smith to throw the ball 30 or more times in a game. It just is not a sustainable plan for success. The Seahawks must run the ball well in this game.
Of course, it is not simply having a good split of plays that will enable the offense to function well. The Seahawks will need to employ good strategy and scheming in their runs in order to make them effective. Particularly considering Denver will likely sell out to stop the run and dare Geno Smith to beat them by throwing the ball.
The staff will need to recapture some of that run effectiveness they displayed in Week One last year against the Colts.
With a young offensive line and a vulnerable quarterback, they will need all the clever scheming they can get. It is encouraging to see that they have already achieved it in the recent past.
The deceptive aspect of the run game also greatly assists the passing game and helps Geno Smith make plays that are in his wheelhouse.
Granted, the Seahawks have yet to really establish a dominant running game. I would argue they are well advised to use their assets wisely and seek to establish one to carry their offense this week. And this season for that matter.
Let’s have a look at a play that gives us some hope they can do that:
What A Block By Abraham Lucas, Good To See Him Showing His Run Blocking Ability (Many People Questioned It Coming Out Of A Pass Heavy Offense In College) pic.twitter.com/FMum6z21kW
— Jett (@Jett_BH) August 18, 2022
There is Abraham Lucas absolutely pancaking a defender in the run game – a common sight this preseason. What’s more, he is getting in Devin Bush’s way and keeping him from sealing off that backside zone.
Yet the play is so much more than that. It is Gabe Jackson manhandling Chris Wormley. It is Austin Blythe getting to the second level immediately. It is Noah Fant chipping and then turning his back and throwing a block to make sure that backside lane is clear.
There is another element to this play that is very special though. I guarantee you it had coaches and teammates alike hooting and hollering just as loudly as they did when watching Lucas drive his man into the ground.
Do you see it?
It’s Penny Hart. Watch him come crashing into the frame from the left at the end of the play.
Let’s look at it from a different angle and celebrate it:
Seahawks rookie RT Abraham Lucas takes Delontae Scott for a ride and finishes with the pancake leading to massive gain.
Thought both rookie tackles played well for Seattle last night. pic.twitter.com/4XyqaOupdK
— Derrick (@Steelers_DB) August 14, 2022
Watch the 180lb Hart move the 217lb Terrell Edmonds out of position to clear the entire right side for Travis Homer, then give the 234lb Devin Bush a chip to keep him out of the play.
A job well done. Is Hart satisfied? Nope. He turns and accelerates downfield and looks for a third man to hit and engages Tre Norwood.
If Homer demonstrates better awareness and judgement on the run and pivots outside to the sideline instead of running into Bo Melton, Hart is right there to accompany him down the sideline. What a play.
Pete Carroll has this team understanding that run blocking is everyone’s assignment. Not just the big uglies up front. Can they carry that commitment into the regular season, when the games count and the players are working against defensive starters for 60 full minutes? Time will tell.
The good news is Denver had the 31st ranked run defense in the NFL last season. Granted they have a new coach and have added some players but they are going to have to prove they are better against a team that has heavily invested in the run game and will likely be desperate to keep Russell Wilson off the field as much as possible.
Keep the Game Out of Geno Smith’s Hands
The more I think about Geno Smith’s capabilities as a quarterback, the more sense installing a quick passing offense makes. Slants and other two-step throws like crossing and seam routes are right up his alley. He is more accurate than Russell Wilson was at these types of passes. We have seen it time and time again in the preseason. Geno handles these plays with a degree of competence that can make this work.
The numbers in his 3+ games in relief of Wilson last year show that very clearly. Here they are when he gets the ball out in under 2.5 seconds:
- 47-60 for an excellent 78.33% completion rate
- A QB rating of 110.3
- 3 touchdowns / zero interceptions
- 2 sacks
Yes, that is a small sample size.
Yet you could slash a full 10% off those numbers when you spread that over a full season and still come out ahead. These numbers are what have the Geno Smith apologists sticking to a position that he can run this offense effectively.
It is possible. If – if – the Seahawks are wise enough to schedule the majority of Geno’s pass plays as ones he can get out quickly.
Pete Carroll, when asked in recent years about sacks and enduring pass rush pressure, has consistently replied with one factor, and one factor alone: The quarterback must get the ball out quickly to avoid sacks. That rationale is going to get put to the acid test this season. Will he commit to that philosophy in view of the current evidence that Geno Smith does it so well?
The fact of the matter is they have no choice but to run the ball heavily and when circumstances call for a pass play, to get the ball out of Smith’s hands as quickly as possible. When he lingers, the results are disastrous.
How bad are they? I feel like I need to issue a Viewer Discretion Advisory before showing you Smith’s numbers when he held the ball for more than 2.5 seconds last year.
Take a breath and have a look:
- 18-35 for a 51.43% completion rate
- QB rating of 89.3
- 2 touchdowns / 1 interception
- 11 sacks for 98 yards lost
Again, that is a small sample size of 3+ games but those are subterranean numbers.
The QB rating is not too bad. It is propped up by 11 of those 18 completions going for first downs and you could argue the interception was more about Tyler Lockett falling down against the Rams.
Yet the completion percentage drop from 78% to 51% when he holds the ball? My goodness.
And the sacks. Do you understand how horrid that is? In only 46 dropbacks that lasted more than 2.5 seconds, Smith was sacked 11 times – an eye-watering 24% of those dropbacks.
If Smith were to play a full season and still have that 24% number, he will get sacked between 55-70 times. Actually, he would not because he would either be seriously injured or benched first.
Can he do better this year? Surely, he can.
Enough to be pedestrian? Let alone effective? That might be too much to ask. The data we have says that Geno is not good when the play goes off script and he needs to quickly process the play and make an effective decision.
Have the Seahawks been able to coach better decision making into him this offseason?
Well…
From turf to QB, @TrevonColey stays with it and records a sack. @ChicagoBears
📺: #CHIvsSEA on ESPN
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/duqkxIEtbt pic.twitter.com/z4jQR1H6FE— NFL (@NFL) August 19, 2022
Not really…
This is where the Geno Smith critics make their case.
He has very little feel for pressure in the pocket, no escape plan and rarely is he able to buy time while keeping his eyes downfield. There is no doubt that Denver knows this and will be scheming to stop the run and force Geno to hold onto the ball.
Are we saying that vast of a gap in effectiveness will continue Monday? Not necessarily in those two extremes.
Yet the die is cast. Offensive success depends on the Seahawks running the ball often and well and getting the ball out quickly in the passing game.
Does that mean the Seahawks should not try deep passes? Of course not. But with a limited quarterback, it is a process to work those opportunities open. Much more so than with a quarterback in full possession of his faculties like Russell Wilson. Patience and timing will be key.
Each step’s success depends on the foundation that the other steps have built. Running the ball preps the defenders to look for it. It is easier then to take the snap and throw immediately when defenders need that extra half second to diagnose the play. Then throwing deep is easier when defenders have been lulled to sleep by slant after slant and crosser after crosser.
Thanks cha. I almost have hope for a Seattle win. Almost.
One of the things you mentioned was that the peacock would need to play a large role and have a very good game in order to slow the Denver run game. To say I’m skeptical that will happen would be an understatement.
Broncos 31 Hawks 9
Granted, but I have more confidence that he will be used in a beneficial way than I ever did under Ken Norton Jr.
I can’t wait to see what Hurtt, Desai and Scott have put together for this game.
Most likely they will use him better.
Small story line: was this actually worth the trade or is Adams well and truly a worthless investment. May or may not know this tonight.
3/3 on field goals….or…..missed PAT and 1/2 on field goals?
3 for 3
And I’ve been at 31-6 for several weeks but I gave the Hawks one more partial drive.
What say you?
I’m pretty comfortable with yours.
I’ll say 31-17. Caveat. The final td comes in the last five minutes when denver goes completely bend don’t break and is running out the whole fourth quarter.
Cha made a great post. I think it’ll be lights out when Denver gets up 17-0 early in the second quarter.
Really great stuff, Cha.
The big issues for me are tackling. Special teams. Who steps up running the rock.
For denver if the backs are more consistent do they throw in more RPO? Is wilson going to continue taking drive killing sacks or does denver actually use their TE’s?
A big time game with a referendum type feel from two teams we realistically know next to nothing about.
Nice work cha.
I just hope that we won’t look like an unfinished business anymore, on D and on STs. We have a better shot at this game than expected, but I still it’s gonna be damn hard to stop Russ.
I see no way the Hawks win this game. 30-13 Broncos
Looking forward to these again this season Cha but executing these game plans depends on personnel and coaching, neither of which I have a lot of faith in this season.
35-10 Denver, and I’m on the record for a 4-13 season.
Same on 4-13.
5-12
I’m Mr. Optimistic (LOL)
Holy smokes Cha, the John Lennon of SDB!
Great prose and analysis.
Thank you
Thanks
But maybe more like Ringo Starr. Maybe a song every album or two.
More like George who got one or two songs per album that he wrote. Ringo didn’t write any of the songs he sang until Octopus’s Garden on Abbey Road which was the last album they ever recorded together.
Great stuff Cha thanks!
I will be the delusional Hawks fan this week.
27-24 Hawks with Penny rushing for 150 yds +
This will be the highlight of the year for the Hawks. Predicting a 5-12 season and top 5 pick in next years draft.
Bold prediction.
Hoping highlight of the year is something like Mafe getting a few votes for DROY.
I just hope we see a semi-competitive team and effort, and all the rookies getting important time on the field.
I also wonder how long before Penny gets hurt. I’ll set the o/u at two quarters, and take the under!
Wondering how badly Russell will be missing Lockett… they had some incredible chemistry.
Did Russell make Lockett look so good?
Did Lockett make Russell look so good?
Both maybe?
Russ will probably miss Lockett but I think Lockett will feel the loss more.
I think the difference here is Hackett. What he did w/ A-Rod I think will do wonders w/ RW.
Maybe the real story. Not peteball vs. Chef russ. But a great offensive mind and what happens there and in green bay.
One game which i would like to win this season for many reasons. I hope cha is right and peacock plays well in new defense system. Geno hope he has 200 yards 1 TD 35 rushing yards. Anything more than that it our fault to expect more.
Cha thanks for setting up the things to watch for tonight. Generally I believe the team with the better QB will win,but this could be a weird game with the Seahawks knowledge of Russ and Russ have to learn new team mates and a new offensive game plan.
Geno looks a lot better than Trey right now, but I shouldn’t look ahead:)
Rob, had a chance to check out Garret Shrader (Syracuse) ?
Draft eligible; but not sure if just a fun college QB or if there’s some pro potential there.
I haven’t
Thanks Cha,
Denver 27
Seattle 6
Nice article Curtis.
I really think a big factor for the Denver O will be how much improvisation will be required by the Denver receivers and OLinemen to adjust to live-action Russ scrambles. Tyler was a master, as was Doug, when playing with Russ.
No expectations for tonight, just sit back and watch.
Am I the only one who just can’t wait for this game to be over so we can move on from the drama? Media and twitter have become almost unbearable. How many “should Hawks fans boo Russ” articles do we have to see? Really, it’s made Hawks fans look very much the jilted girlfriend.
100% agreed
I’m getting tired of the Pete vs. Russ storyline as well. Just play ball already.
Same
Ditto
100% agree. Time to move on. The build up to this one game has been downright exhausting.
I hate to say it but I’m fully on board for wanting the season over already so we can get to draft time.
This right here.
The next draft will be the one that really shows where the team is going.
And another ditto from me
This would be the perfect time to utilize our expensive TE group for some of those slants, crosses, and seams.
How bout for 2 TDs?!?
Marcus Spears on NFL Live just predicted the Broncos to win “by 50.”
How about a drinking game?
Sure is strange seeing Wilson warm up a the Clink in Broncos gear
whoops, Lumen field
Ah yes
The Seahawks fashion shows are back
https://twitter.com/Seahawks/status/1569448850104139776/photo/1
Could they just not….this is terrible LOL
Maybe he’s playing against agents in the matrix tonight 🤮
I could have done without seeing that. So tired of this peacock.
Worst part is that probably cost more than all the clothes I’ve bought in the last five years combined. Maybe ten.
Definitely for me. I spend serious bucks on work wear trying to stay comfortable in the elements and that’s easily more then 10 years of my gear.
Proof that money does not buy taste.
Who is this for? Who sees this and gets hyped?
No idea
Judging by the comments, thirsty women
On the same photo please put match stats after the game.
Assist. Excellent idea
*ashish*
Well done cha. Some good stuff in here.
Absolutely. And I’m really excited to see how Hurtt disguises the blitz, especially inside and outside-in stunts. We have several players who can get to the QB from a bunch of different spots. I hope we see a basic formation from which they run multiple looks to keep Wilson guessing about the scheme.
I totally understand the pessimism of some of the community. Pete’s blown a lot of the goodwill and “in Pete we trust” benefit of the doubt that he built up over 2012-14. I’m one of his more vocal critics here, though mostly because I feel like he’s borderline contemptuous of us fans.
But I still recognize he’s one of the best ever to coach in college and the pros. It’s possible he’s done. But it’s also possible he can get this team to believe they are something more than everyone else thinks they are. I don’t know that they have quite the defensive roster they did in 2011, but that’s the vibe I’m getting. We don’t yet know what they have in Bryant, Woolen or Mafe. But that trio could be just as foundational in their own way as Thomas, Chancellor and Sherman were.
Point is, I’m giving Carroll (and Hurtt/Desai) a chance to work some magic with them before I write him off for good.
I like some of our positional matchups with Denver. I like our defensive secondary vs the Broncos WRs. I like our OLBs/DEs vs their OTs. I worry about our DTs and ILBs vs their run game, including Wilson. They better not forget about him and let him run his way to a win. But because we didn’t see any of Diggs, Adams, Brooks or Woods (not much), I sincerely hope they add some stiffness inside the hashmarks.
I like our run game vs Denver’s defense. A lot. Especially with our OL. I hope the starting line up is Cross-Hayes-Blythe-Curhan-Lucas but they’re paying Jackson for a reason so I guess he should earn it. Anyway, I want to watch Penny pick up right where he left off last season. And if Homer and Dallas maintain their play from the preseason, we should score some points.
Denver isn’t anything special. And after watching some teams I think are better that the Broncos falter yesterday, many on the road, I think this game will be closer than many are expecting. I don’t know which way it ends, but the score will be close, a FG or less. Wouldn’t be surprised with OT either.
Go Hawks!
Blitzy you often make good points and yet again you’re doing it here.
The only real gray area for me is “schroedingers brady.”
Your matches are good. Damn the potential of the run game looks great.
Is denver really nothing special? Or have they been an afterthought because of years of middling coaches and worse qb play?
Then the flip side. Can wilson really not elevate a team? Or has this team been far worse than we realize?
When I said Denver isn’t anything special, I meant I think Wilson the Bronco won’t be markedly different than Wilson the Seahawk until that roster gets better.
So many questions swirling around this team and the media circus about just two of the characters doesn’t help any.
That’s why I agree with many posters above and kind of wish this game was over.
Or rob and wish this was mid-season so the potential for scrutiny was possibly lower.
Seattle FO gets (and deserves) a lot of flak for how much they paid for Adams. But fwiw, I think what SF paid for Trey Lance is worse.
Myles Adams inactive
Thank god we’re not risking his fantastic pre-season form translating into the regular season
No reason to have an extra player at one of the thinnest position groups
Is he injured? You got to play a guy who fights for a spot.
this is why pc should move on or be fired. A Lepard can’t change his spots
Alton Robinson doesn’t like your post
Thanks for the continued great content.
Rob much appreciated on the extra weekly QB updates & other.
Nice pregame summary Cha.
Can’t believe Miles Adams inactive in favor of Collier, star in preseason doesn’t mean much evidently. Always compete, so Coleman will likely start over Cobe as well; regardless of how bad Coleman looked.
Oops forgot Collier is out
Right Scott no one stays behind Collier.
All of the Seahawks fans on twitter right now bagging Russ… and those in the stadium who spent an afternoon doing arts and crafts to make a sign to hold up
They’ll be the first ones to boo at half-time if it’s 21-0 to Denver
“Arts and crafts” lol.
Images of glitter, glue, macaroni, and a paper plate making a sparkly peacock.
The number of fans in the stadium with goofy getups would be impressive if it wasn’t so tacky.
The most clever one ia a navy RW jersey with “awkward” stitched over the name plate.
Do Seahawks fans not realise that Wilson is going to thrive off all this booing nonsense?
Just respect and treat him as opponent make noise when he taking snap
Seahawks aren’t doing anything to tamp it down.
Palpable energy in the stadium.
Seahwks trotting out every former player they can find to get on the big screen and wave to the crowd.
It’s odd, exciting and cringey all at the same time.
In other words, it’s a PC led Seahawks game.
And the fans eat it up, Pete has brainwashed a large majority of the fans.
Let’s see how that plays out by the end of the season
I don’t see it much different unfortunately
Illusions and delusions will be peeled away shortly. Boos bring shame only to that portion of the Seahawk fan base. Broncos 37 Seahawks 3. The misery begins in earnest.
I was listening to Softy for some reason before the game. Encouraging all of the fans to boo, Superbowl win was all on the LOB and that it is all Russ’s fault that he left.
No mention that Russ was the main reason that the Seahawks have been relevant since the LOB was disbanded or that the FO has wanted to get rid of Russ since 2018. It was pathetic fan service.
We should appreciate former players contributions pre game. Booing them like crazy during the game is fine. I cannot fathom how anyone can put all of the blame on Russ for leaving.
Russell Wilson will always be one of my favorite Seahawks. I am truly grateful for what he did for this franchise and the broader community.
It’s weird seeing him in another uniform, especially at Lumen. But I wish him continued success.
Just not today.
Agreed
Definitely hope Russ has a bad game. Go Hawks!
My prediction: It’s late in the game. Denver has a three or four point lead. Seattle has possession of the football. What does Geno Smith do? He turns the ball over. Denver cashes in for a TD and the Broncos win by 10 or 11 points.
Stadium is full of Denver fans
Look at the orange
Looks like a lot of orange in the crowd.
Alright. Alright. Alright.
Well that was quite a start
am I in another universe? who are these Seahawks all passing and 1 rush? and a TE for a TD?!
that was nice
Its the offense that Russ always wanted!😏
It’s not always doom n gloom.
That was a right proper opening drive, notwithstanding a mistake or two.
Well that was something!!! HAHA WOW
A fast srart, huh?
Go figure!
Whoo Hoo. Geno still has a little gas left in the tank
That was well schemed, and even better executed. I’m impressed.
Excellent start.
I love throwing to do even when there is tight coverage. That’s how you use a big w.r
Geno did a good job shaking that blitzer
Geno smith doing his best Russell Crowe gladiator gif quote … are you not entertained?!
hahahah
Damn that was satisfying. Love that DK is being featured like he should be
Pleasantly surprised with that start. Good catches by Metcalf/Lockett early… Geno looked poised!
It sounds LOUD in there!!!
My ears are ringing I’m not exaggerating
Why Joe Buck is the best and gets so much unnecessary crap
He knows when not to say anything
So Mike Jackson an Tariq Woolen are starting CBs?
Classic Jamal there
Big run for Denver… first down
Jamal in the RB’s face after he makes a big play
Then heads the football instead of picking it off
Oh man…classic!
Was this close to catching that with my facemask!!
…after a terrible angle
But Rob isn’t being able to use your head critical in Football ⚽️?
John Terry would’ve been proud of that clearance
Do we not practice contain on the edges?
Russ knows we cant cover tight ends
Taylor’s blown outside contain twice now.
I guess I was expecting more of an individual intro of RW and not a running out with the team, but obviously I put no thought into that. If I was there and the almighty ran out with the opposition, I’d boo.
Look at the peacock jawing at a guy who just ran for an 11 yd gain
OOOOOOOHHHH COME ON!!!!!!!!!!!! Gotta pick that
literally doesnt know how to use his hands lol. Cmon Jamal! At least he was in the right spot can’t ask too much right
Another off Adams facemask
So far tackling is not much better than the preseason
I’m convinced Adams practices facemasking the ball with the jugs.
Too funny man
Well he is definitely good at it; hopefully one sticks in there.
To be fair, it was a great diving header
USA could use that kind of defending in Qatar
What’s happening in Qatar?
I kid
Truly his best attribute
They should make Jamal’s face mask with a big triangle in it so he can catch the ball.
yes!!
Awful hit by Kareem Jackson
Would’ve been ejected in CFB
There we go Penny!
Nice block by Lucas on that 15 yard run
He didn’t get it. Kick the FG
Ge o is really helping the oline by getting the ball out quick.
Shoulda kicked the FG
Uh oh
I think if you’re going to play Pete-ball, just do it
That’s an avoidable momentum swing there
You’re in a game where you need to match punches
I was in favor of going for it but that is a very fair point
Yep big momentum killer. I would have preferred play action or just kick the field goal.
It was the right call just bad result.
I’m not mad about it, wish we would have gotten it. Opportunity shifted though.
Love the call.
But that was the most poorly executed QB sneak I’ve seen in a while.
Darrell Taylor looks totally lost
Terrible awful no good tackling
Hawks run D is looking abysmal again and what is Taylor doing out there. Look totally lost and can’t keep contain.
Seriously WRAP UP! Annoying.
Blitzy was right, tackling is shit so far
If Darrell Taylor wants to be more than a pass rush specialist, he needs to learn how to play the edge properly and contain.
Hot take:
Offense is better than I expected.
Defense is worse. Way worse.
The run defense has been horrible. 1 linebacker and an undrafted interior D are not a good combo.
DL
Actually surprisingly happy with the offense, but damn the defense can’t tackle and or takes terrible routes to the ball carrier.
Nice sack
And down goes adams I mean that’s longer then I thought he’d make it haha
Is Jamal done?
Hey look, Adams is hurt. Shocking.
The man is made of glass
And not a strong glass
We have a wounded peacock.
Didn’t take long
We finally get to see Adams used the way we would like to see him used and he gets hurt good grief
Just frame the peacock
The China Doll looks broken again.
So glad to see Tyler doing punt return duties.
Hey Jamal made it to the 2nd quarter before injury!
Rub some leather polish on it peacock.
Ok this is funny
Very surprised Denver ceased to keep running to the outside
But then how is Wilson going to be MVP?
Overrunder on the number of games the peacock misses is 6
How did he not block that punt?!
What a missed opportunity!
So funny Broncos fans on twitter already complaining about Russ not getting rid of the ball.
Thank god the Broncos just don’t keep feeding Williams and Gordon. They are getting 6-8 yds a carry everytime they run outside.
I see the dumb taunting penalties remain in the NFL
I am encouraged that penny pops up after everyone shows no sign of pain
* Every run
Fantastic from Austin Blythe there
Been really impressed with Blythe because you don’t notice him barely at all which is a great thing for a Center. If he stays healthy looks like a good addition.
Rumblin stumblin bumblin Penny
Austin Blythe! Earned his money on that play!
Pleasant surprised..
Jamal Adams on a cart and going into the locker room
You couldn’t make it up
6 games
Minimum
Season ender
Nah, he’ll be back in time for the playoffs 🙂
All joking aside one of the worst trades in NFL history compounded by one of the worst contacts.
Never should’ve traded for him
Never should’ve paid him
Awful
💯 both of you guys
Makes it even easier to move on and cut bait this offseason. What a waste.
I suspect we’re stuck with him for one more year after this
Agree Rob, sadly.
Looks like an MCL or UCL sprain after his cleat stuck in the turf as he spun. Tough break for him after a good blitz
Denver does not look like a team where Russ was the missing piece. The draft picks could 12-18
So far this is best case scenario for us. Still a little early to say.
Jamal Adams…Mr. Fucking Glass
I love how our offense is eating clock
Still can’t execute a screen pass
Dink and dunk, run the ball a bit, this is the Seahawks offense
Huh, not a smart play.
Now here’s a spot where we really need the field goal from Myers
Excellent, we got something out of the drive
Kind of early for hot takes, but I’m moderately pleased with what I see out of Geno- this feels like his ceiling, but its good enough to win some games this year.
He looks athletic, gets the ball out on time and the offense operates with more rhythm. Guessing there will be a bone-headed throw at some point here, but so far so good in my book.
Late stage smith reminds me of Hasselbeck.
I think they are also designing short passes for him – get a chance to get rhythm going- move the ball forward. Almost feels like Rams level stuff.
Oh dear, Coby Bryant
Yikes.
Yeah that was embarrassing for him
Nice throw by Russ. Rookie CB looking like a rookie on that play.
Bad throw from Russ. Nearly gave Bryant a chance to break it up, despite the fact he had his arse kicked on the route.
Looking at the replay. You are right if Bryany turns his head that is a pick because of the under throw.
It was underthrown and could have been picked off. He got away with one there
Good recovery by Bryant but he’s got to get the head around and not get juked off the line like that. Shades of Kelly Jennings.
Good recovery because the pass was under-thrown
If Wilson throws that 10 times, nine times Jeudy runs it home untouched
True. Russ not looking as sharp.
Ugh, if he tuned his head a little sooner! But he got smoked off the line though
Haven’t seen Wilson hit a receiver in stride since Sidney Rice way back against NE. Shouldn’t have even been close to being contested if not for the under throw.
Uncle Will rocking the Goose moustache for you Rob
They have schemed the offense perfectly for Geno tonight.
I mean….
And nice drive for Colby Parkinson. Hoping he gets going
To say Geno Smith has had a fantastic first half would be to undersell his performance
Lights out performance
Do we need a new quater back? Just kidding
That TD throw to Parkinson was beautiful- we’re seeing ‘peak Geno’
FACTS!
Kudos to the OL
GE-NO!! GE-NO!! GE-NO!!
So this is what a normal offense looks like
Who are these guys? What did they do with our real players!!!
I am shocked with how efficient this offence looks so far against what was thought to be a solid defense. Looks exactly like the type of ball control offence Pete wants. Who is this guy playing QB I have not seen him before?
Wild, but Geno looks better than Wilson right now.
Geno looks really good. I like the game plan so far. OL giving him time
Yes
Good for Geno. Not many difficult throws but he’s taking what’s given. Have to give him credit for that.
Finally the Seahawks have quarterback
Good stuff by Geno. I suspect that this Brocos defense will end up at the bottom of the league. They do not seem to have many playmakers.
Denver defense looks atrocious and undisciplined. I agree – they’ll end up a bottom 8 unit. Geno just throwing to wide open guys.
Guys guys, hear me out. Are we absolutely certain that the “Geno Smith” we see is the same player of the past? Space Jam has shown that maybe aliens sucked out his athleticism and maybe it was given back before the game. Im open to ideas
Seems plausible !
What a total departure from the entire league yesterday – Seattle offense looks great and the defense looks poor …. Go figure….
Seems like the Waldron and the Hawks figured out how to get the TE’s involved over the offseason. Lots of TE heavy sets.
About damn time!
Taylor is bloody awful tonight
He looks out of shape and/or disinterested. The D line looks overmatched every play. LB’s, CB’s and safeties making all the tackles. Bad. Adams knee injury. He may be done.
Our new tackles look good. Like some of the new things going on O.
We will see how geno does after the broncos make some halftime adjustments.
Our run defense is pathetic
Btw – “Let’s ride….”
Pete won’t be happy with this run defense
Picking on Taylor. I
As bad a head coach as Fangio was, he was an elite defensive coach.
Denver fans quickly finding out how much of a role he played.
If I were Denver I would run the hell out of the ball and then hit Seattle with some play action deep shots as the game went on
Screens are killing us!
Denver should keep running the ball until Seattle can stop it
Too much time to throw. The pass rush is stagnant.
This is what I was most excited to see this year. Hurts to see.
Oh cmon Diggs!
Yep you need to pick that one
2 expensive drops by our safeties. In more f’n way than 1.
Thats 3 picks (Adams, Bryant, Diggs) the Hawks secondary have missed.
If I was the broncos I would start blitzing geno in the 2nd half
Wilson has been so careless with the ball. One particular egregious throw that went unmentioned was the play where Jamal got injured.
There’s going to be more opportunities for turnovers we just need to take advantage
it would be nice to have a safety that can catch lol
I get you just got a new toy in Russell Wilson and he has something to prove this game but damn Denver if you just run the ball you’ll pick up 7+ yards every play.
This
RW needing to prove something hamstringing the team? feels familiar. Watching this is actually annoying…almost. Seeing Wilson outside of the haze of him as Seahawk is interesting. Can’t believe how inept he seems at times.
Geno to the tight ends
6-6, 96 yards, 2 TD
Rob is right, this D desperately needs a *dude* on the defensive line, someone teams must respect whether it’s a DT or EDGE.
A little Myles Adams would have been nice
“Geno’s off to a solid start”
I’m sorry espn, what’s your definition of solid.
His first half is solid Blitzy.
It was better than solid
I’m watching the regular ESPN broadcast and recording the Manningcast to watch tomorrow.
Really hope we pull this out!
Let’s Ride Hawks!
I am getting a smile thinking about fantasy owners who started Geno this week over ARod, Dak or Carr.
Oh come on man that would have been exactly no 1. People may have started Gino in 16 team leagues cuz it’s because hes who they had for their flex or something like that. I can’t believe a single person would start him over Rodgers or Dak or a Carr
I agree that it would have been crazy but I am sure someone did thorough 😀
Wish I would have. Arod sunk me yesterday.
Time for our new defense to step up big.
Find it interesting most of us thought the O would be the main issue (and maybe still be 1/2 a game is no great indication). But our D looks pretty bad. I guess same bend don’t break. We just don’t seem to have that “dude” on the D. Or dudes.
Big hold that should have been called on Oline
Nice to see Dallas make a big hit, and then take his #31 and punched his hand like a former LB I remember.
Any time the Seahawks want to stop the run…..yeah that’d be great.
Didn’t really look too much like PI by Woolen
That wasnt just a penalty, that was a felony. He mugged him
Yes! Goal line fumble!
Nwosu is having himself a nice game
agreed he is definitely one of the bright spots on dee
Oh I like that, I like that a lot!
bend but dont break on goal line
Definitely needed that.
DIGGS 💪🏽
cmon Seahawks its not midnight yet need to ride this carriage far before it turns into a pumpkin
Geno seeming less comfortable
DK’s arm was down. Should be Seahawks ball
No chance
It look like that live but the replay show it differently
Nah, his elbow wasn’t down.
That’s as fumble as fumble gets
It’s going to be a frustrating year for DK with no deep shots but it’s a good chance for him to improve his short game
I absolutely hate that play call. If you want to go right back to DK let him run a route, that quick throw crap rarely works.
And I want to know if they’ll ever run Eskridge on a route besides that one
Nice play by Woolen.
Ouch.. barely got it out before DK’s elbow hit.
Need Defense to step up again.
How is that not OPI?
Have not seen much of Lockett. Look for him late.
Really like how the Secondary is looking. I think Brooks has looked good too and Barton not out of place. Looking forward to the PFF ratings.
Poorly timed comment 😎
Then he makes a terrible play. Life of a rookie CB
Taylor was held..
yup i thought it was nwosu….how did they miss that?
Didn’t even need to hold there
Again!
man this dee is showing some fight and resilience well done
Wow, just Wow
I think Woods blew that play up, shoved the C back into the RB and killed that run in the backfield.
The Hawks defense keeps waiting until the ball is deep in the red zone before balling out.
It’s the good ol’ give the ball to the Seahawks. My favorite play!
Was just going to say I haven’t noticed Q Jeff or Shelby Harris tonight. But then we get a TO. Go figure.
Twice! HaHaHaHaHa!
I’m no pass rushing expert but it seems like Darrell taylor only tries to beat tackles with speed, it’s like the same move around the edge every time. But I might be wrong
Waking up to a fumble with Seattle ahead. Neat.
Is finally a different route for Dee
Nwosu with the punch fumble man hes a difference maker
The Hawks actually look competent on 3rd down.
Cross and Lucas are studs
They really are. That was a tough holding call on Abe but still playing a great game. Really impressive out of two rookies.
I’m absolutely ecstatic with their play
for their 1st regular season game they dont look like rookies
Geezus Geno take a slide man
💯
Geno’s got heart…I like it.
That is why I said he outplayed Russ last year, Russ looks dis-interested at the end of last season.
No he didn’t
Fans are going to fall in love with Geno for plays like that.
It won’t do them any good to love him on the sideline with a concussion though
💯
If Wilson had Geno’s stats, the announcers wouldn’t be shutting up about it.
They’re giving him plenty of love too
Need to finish this drive of with a TD.
Cross is our new receiver
Special teams have been a real treat tonight especially considering what we saw in that preseason game against the bears
Where were you on cross’s receiving skills Rob? 🫣
Homer and Dallas all over ST today
Have a feeling there are going to be a lot of games like this during the season. One possession games coming down the wire.
Maybe
Or this could be the perfect storm for week one as discussed last week
Is your momeyon Geno or Russ?🙂
I thought Wilson couldn’t throw over the middle
X2
Woolen got a helmet on his shoulder. He’ll be ok. But I’ll tell you, Taylor was the EDGE on that play and again blew contain. Woolen shouldn’t have had too make that play.
Don’t like how many yards we give to Russ now.
There’s one of those outside in stunts!
So it’s gonna be on geno to bring us back? Seems like a good story.
Killing us with the short stuff
Is that a Russ joke?😏
ooof lol
You know, Barton’s having a nice game tonight. He’s definitely not a liability out there.
But he’s always late
Cmon let’s hold ’em to a FG
Yes!
I hope KNJ is watching.
You’d be forgiven for thinking the only defense Seattle practiced this preseason was goal line.
But hey, if you’re gonna be good at one thing…
Well it all comes down to Geno. Can he lead a big touchdown drive here to put the pressure on. Need that 8 point lead
Gotta put some points on the board now, least a field goal.
I’ll eat crow a bit. There was Shelby Harris!!!
geno needs to close this out and eat up as much clock as possible and score
time for the Oline trenches to dig deep
Some of my fears about Charles Cross and this offense showing up in the second half
Worst timing ever to get sacked. And why don’t they run it?
I agree at least one of first or second down needed to be a run.
Smith’s weakness always has been and still is feeling pressure and stepping up
Taylor held again
they missed ALOT of holding calls on denver. we got our calls in the first half I guess
82% for a 7.0 YPA
Brutal, OLB done nothing so far this game.
3 straight throws….confusing.
I’m torn. Overall great showiing for Seattle. Denver looks average, at best. Lose with a good showing. Get the QB we need next year and a mid-first rounder that could get us pass rush!!!
This is exactly what I was just explaining to my son. You don’t want to win 8 games and pick in the middle of the draft. Rather a strong showing and a loss.
Geno’s time to prove the world wrong.
I agree on this challenge. That spot and the measurement were bollocks
I disagree with it because I don’t think they have enough to overturn it and that’s a loss of a timeout that we may well need to try and drive to win the game
But we already know it won’t be overturned.
The Bronco receiver extends the ball over the line to gain but then pulls it back as he goes to the ground and the ball is about a half a yard short when his elbow touches and the play is over.
So forward progress is a first down, right? What am I missing.
I’m saying it shows up in replay
Unless Pete is just trying to give his D a breather, this challenge of the spot is stupid.
Legit space between chain and ball. Not challenging wasn’t even an option.
Another year with no pass rush
Huge 3rd down. Can the D come up with a big tackle for loss.
Is it just me or have we barely seen Mafe today
pretty under the radar, right? all the rookies had a decent game for the most part
Seriously can we not stop the short crap? I don’t understand
I’m not seeing the creative defense they promised.
Down 1 point.and you go with a 64 yard FG instead of Mr Unlimited?
We need one of our famous stops at our 3 yards.
Well we know it’s 4 down territory for Denver.
Stupid clock management by Denver here.
So its not just Pete that can’t manage the clock.
Sooo stupid to call timeout there!
That’s a close shave!
Some of the most appalling coaching I’ve ever seen. Incredible.
Do not agree with how Denver played this. But we got to win out of it
Yeah that was a rookie mistake by a rookie coach
OMG we did it somehow!
Perfect win.
Watching this game makes me wonder whether Russ played a role in the ridiculous play clock management we’ve seen the last ten years.
Kick was long enough too just barely wide left
You got Russell Wilson! Insane.
What a bizarre end of game management decision
Down 1 point and you go with a 64 yard FG instead of turning to Mr Unlimited?
Were you hurt by RW?
Some of you guys need therapy over this.
Hackett lost this game for Denver. Hate it that Seattle won don’t want to inflate the wins for draft positions but atleast this helps keep Denvers position down.
Im fine with us winning 1 game.
This one.
I just wanted this win & 2 against Denver.
Bring in the big QB & don’t pithe ball in his hands on 4th & 5.
Russ won’t be happy.
So almost there.
An Alex Smith type Geno Smith is a GOOD thing for this team.
Very conservative game plan by Denver.
Good trade, finally….
2 1sts , 2nds a ton of players and money and they kick a 64 yards FG wtf
Yessssss! The $100 on the money line hits!
I bet the under 43.5 nice cheddar and thx to the new LOB
What was the point of trading for Russ if you don’t trust him?
2 fumbles at the goal line, a dozen stupid penalties, time management, not sticking with the toss plays to the outside…
Broncos fans must be fuming
Bailing on the outside runs was the worst of his poor choices
And I’m guessing Shanahan will not do that Sunday.
So at the end of the day we held Russ to one freaking TD.
Man Denver….I have questions about your coach.
didnt let russ cook on 4th and 5
When do people stop blaming the coach and start looking at the QB?
Have to agree though that did not look like a well coached team or game plan.
Are you really blaming RW for that game?
I swear, some of you are more jaded than a recently dumped 14 year old girl.
Not only was it piss pour clock management, terrible long field goal call, but he also went away from the run time and time again when it was working.
Poor*
Don’t want to over react because it is only week #1 but I feel even more confident than ever that the Hawks end up with two picks in the top 15 this year.
Was thinking the same thing. Denver is not good.
And here were complaining about Pete, but Denver’s coach was really bad.
I was profoundly WRONG about this team, and pretty much everything … what a game, Wow!
In what way?
I’m afraid Rob is right and we showed our true colors in the second half, we didn’t score 1 point. I’m delighted about the win but this won’t work on the long run.
Geno played better than I expected, but Den gave this game away with terrible penalties, 2 goal line fumbles, and a stupid play call to kick a long FG. Lucky win for Seattle, but this team isn’t good.
Geno can perform fine against bad defenses and a strict script. He was almost worthless when the script is turned off and the defense gets going.
This was, however, a huge positive. Both teams are gonna give us high picks. Future will be bright after next offseason.
Good point. The true win is seeing that Denver pick should be decent.
Seahawks win! Seahawks win! The Seahawks!
I back EVERYTHING I said about Geno Smith.
I take BACK EVERYTHING I said about Geno Smith
Good result or not, and I quite liked the outcome, I think the thing thay actually made me happy the most was seeing the potential in our rookies and young players. They weren’t amazing, and made rookie moves like rookies do, but they still got a gutsy win and showed flashes. That’s all I want from this season.
anyone seen D’Wayne Eskridge?
Obviously, the Seahawks own the NFC West.
Denver gave this game away. 2 goal line fumbles. The penalties by Den. End of game time mgmt.
Russ played solidly seemed game plan was all underneath which worked but they had opps all night deep. Geno played solidly as well. But no points in 2nd? Cross decent first 1/2-got balled in 2nd many times by Chubb. Understandable. Lucas played great. D line was mostly bad except when on our 3 yard line. We need another good LB obviously.
12’s were crazy loud all game. A bit of a false flag game to me. Think we win 5 or 6 max. I do not have great faith in either O or D to put it together game to game. Hopefully good spurts and things we can build on for the future
Russell Wilson’s curse in reverse and I feel great!!!