I was invited onto the Seahawkers Podcast immediately after the game to record this instant reaction debate. check it out…
This was a significant victory.
Written off by many as a floundering team destined for a top-10 pick, the Seahawks have shown they’re anything but the Titanic.
They’re far from perfect. There are still improvements to be made. Yet here they are, in the playoffs and with another winning season.
Pete Carroll truly does deserve coach of the year recognition.
Look at some of the other long-standing coaches in the league. Look at the peaks and troughs of Sean Payton’s time in New Orleans, Mike Tomlin in Pittsburgh or John Harbaugh in Baltimore.
They’ve all won one Super Bowl, just like Carroll. They’ve also had to repair or rebuild a roster. Not completely. They’ve consistently had the same quarterback. But they haven’t maintained a level of consistent winning like Carroll.
Payton, for example, had three consecutive 7-9 seasons before last year. He had four 7-9 seasons in five years, in fact. The Ravens went 5-11, 8-8 and 9-7 before this year. Tomlin, perhaps the most maligned of the three, has faired better. He had a pair of 8-8 seasons surrounded by a heap of wins.
Carroll just keeps winning.
Look at the issues he’s had to deal with too:
— The fallout of that Super Bowl
— Russell Wilson’s ‘injured’ season in 2016
— The complete collapse of the running game in 2017
— A legendary but ageing (and in some cases malcontent) defense being replaced
Despite all of this, it’s been one winning season after another.
That deserves some form of recognition because only Bill Belichick has been able to win with any kind of similar regularity. And the Belichick Patriots have never had to share a division with a team anywhere like the Harbaugh Niners, the Arians’ Cardinals or the McVay Rams.
A lot of credit also has to go to the quarterback. On a highly entertaining night, he watched Patrick Mahomes do what he does. And for a moment in the fourth quarter, this started to feel like the Chiefs/Ravens game from week 14. Baltimore dominated and were on the brink of victory several times. Mahomes refused to be beaten.
Tonight, Russell Wilson was the man refusing to be beaten.
Mahomes is clearly the NFL MVP (in my opinion) and a player who will likely win multiple Super Bowls in a career already destined for greatness, Wilson has already achieved greatness. This was merely the latest example.
The Seahawks officially have earned another winning season. They’re 9-6 with only a home game against the Cardinals to come. They’ll have the chance to decide how long they want to play their starters against an opponent preparing to fire its coach and gain the #1 overall pick in the draft.
Will they treat it as a pseudo-bye week? With so many injuries mounting, we might see a lot of backups next week. Dallas awaits in the Wild Card round.
Some other quick notes…
— Russell Wilson + Doug Baldwin is a combo you dream about when you don’t have them. Any talk of moving on from either is absurd.
— Credit to Mike Solari and the offensive line (again). No Germain Ifedi, J.R. Sweezy leaves the game and D.J. Fluker is nowhere near 100%. They don’t have Jordan Simmons either. They still delivered another huge day in the running game and gave Wilson enough time to work his magic in the second half against some talented pass rushers.
— Akeem King had a fantastic game, mostly lining up against Travis Kelce.
— Why weren’t the Seahawks prepared to pay top dollar for Earl Thomas? Three reasons defensively — Frank Clark, Jarran Reed and Justin Coleman. All at a good age, all played very well again tonight. All needing to be kept or extended this off-season. Seattle doesn’t have as much cap room as you think. Only a couple of teams have fewer players contracted for 2019. They’re going to need to add bodies in free agency with only four draft picks. They absolutely can’t afford to lose a trio of players who are a huge part of the new core. They’re going to need to make every penny count this off-season.
— Sebastian Janikowski has now missed five field goals and three extra points this season. We’re living in an era of football where expecting perfection is unrealistic. Even the leagues established best kicker, Justin Tucker, cost the Ravens a game this season by missing a late extra point. It’s also worth acknowledging that Janikowski hit game-winning kicks against Arizona and Carolina. That said, at the very least they need to re-open the competition in the off-season. They need to find their answer to Robbie Gould. A seasoned veteran, completely consistent. It’d be worth paying a little more money for too. Janikowski can still be that man — but he surely can’t afford to miss any more. Especially in the playoffs.
Merry Christmas to all.
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Rob best write up of the year! Merry Christmas and thanks for spoiling us year after year.
Thanks man, Merry Christmas!
Why is RW’s season in 2016 noted as ‘injured’ in quotes? Was he not really injured?
They aren’t quote marks. It’s simply there to separate it and make it stand out for emphasis. He had serious knee and ankle injuries in 2016.
I think it is one of RW’s finest seasons… hobbled beyond all get out. Being a warrior and willing the team into at least 500 territory on the season. He should likely not have played, but did. He has not been as quick as he was before that season, so there might be a slight long term ramification. With that being said, he was forced to pocket pass… and continues to grow each season in tat department.
I believe he also played through pec injury that year
What a great pick up Akeem King turned out being. He’s been playing lights out lately.
What a refreshing thing, given our struggles covering tight ends at times.
Great write up Rob, but I have to say if Janikowski is the Hawks kicker in August, Seattle has made a horrible mistake at that position for three years running.
The Seahawks can get similar inconsistency for a lot less than the veteran minimum.
In fairness I said in the piece, the competition has to be open there again at the very least. But if he kicks every kick between now and the end of the season and Seattle goes deep into the playoffs, we’ll be speaking differently than we are tonight.
Granted.
If he makes every kick from now til the end of say–the Superbowl, we will be speaking in very different tones, but it will be as much about how unexpected and freakish that outcome would be, than how it affirmed what we anticipated from Janikowski.
He’s been an all-pro in his past, but let’s not pretend he isn’t in the twilight of his career.
I don’t think it’s that unexpected that he finishes the year strongly. He hasn’t been terrible. Just had some misses.
But it’s certainly better than watching Blair Walsh miss field goals and lose games for us.
This team really responded after a lackluster game last week. They really showed what they’re made of.
Credit to Norton for a terrific game plan. They kept the offense bottled up in the first half, and made the Chiefs make some incredible plays in the second half to score points.
What a great game. Dicksons pinballing third and fifteen first down, Baldwin’s one-handed wonder, Russel escaping with purpose down the field, so much excellence on display. I really like Schottehiemer ‘s playcalling. He takes his shots but always in the context of a glued together game plan.
Seattle did not allow Kansas City to control any part of this game. So much fun.
Merry Xmas, Rob.
One note: If Seattle sits ppl and loses next week, there’s a little better than 50-50 chance they’ll open the playoffs in Chicago, not Dallas.
I suspect they’ll be able to sit players and win. Although the likes of Wilson and co. will undoubtedly start, simply not finish the game.
I believe the Vikings would have to beat Chicago as well. I think it’s a home game for them, but that’s a bigger ask than beating Arizona.
Rob I think we were both right. The Hawks did indeed control the tempo of the game by gashing the KC defense in the run game. And RW absolutely stepped up to outduel Mahomes when it was needed. But you were more right. The run game set the tempo.
Can we all give Pocic a nod for a much improved performance? He cost the Hawks several times last week, and while he had a penalty early he played a solid game and answered the call to move over to LG when Sweezy got hurt. Not saying he doesn’t have a ways to go, but as much grief as we all gave him last week, let’s give him an atta boy for his performance tonight.
Absolutely! The banged up, stitched together line played a fantastic game tonight. I really expected the line to struggle, but they played well, Pocic included.
Are our receivers incredible or what? Got to watch the game tonight with a fellow Seahawk fanatic, childhood buddy. Baldwin & Lockett simply catch every frikkin pass thrown their way. I’m so used to it now that when Baldwin had the ball knocked out by the DB late in the game I was shocked. These guys make catches like Bobby Wagner makes tackles.
Remembering the days of Koren ‘dropinson’, Darrell ‘hot & cold’ Jackson & Jeremy ‘I can’t catch’ Stevens makes me appreciate our current crew so much. They’ve were amazing tonight.
Well said, and literally true!
Terrific game. Iconic performances tonight to two Seahawk legions in Russell Wilson and Doug Baldwin. I don’t think that they are going anywhere anytime soon.
Terrific season. I’ve had more fun watching this team this year than I have since 2013. Let me count the ways.
Russell Wilson
Bobby Wagner
Chris Carson
Jarran Reed
Frank Clark
Tyler Lockett
Doug Baldwin
Dwayne Brown
Tre Flowers
Michael Dickson
Bradley McDougald
Justin Coleman
D.J. Fluker
JR Sweezy
Justin Britt
Shaquill Griffin
Poona Ford
Rashaad Penny
George Fant
Germaine Ifedi
Jordan Simmons
David Moore
Jacob Martin
Rasheem Green
Jarran Reed and Frank Clark feel like the new foundational pieces. Totally agree that Coleman should be kept. Hopefully they can get K.J. or Kendricks back, but for this unit to take the next “level up” I say get another pass rusher.
Fun times. My MVP is Pete Carroll.
Merry Christmas, SDB
Go Hawks!
I know no one will believe me but I had a good feeling about today. This was their game. Their once a season excellence against and great team. Like against the Steelers a few years ago at home. Then against New England in foxborough. And against the Texans last year. The game it all clicks. This is the game that makes you hope beyond the first round. They are still a flawed team yet they are growing before our eyes. A beautiful game to watch. Let’s keep it rolling.
Nicely put
Rob:
I have heard some commenters talk about moving on from Wilson, but I’m certain none of that talk originated in the Seahawk front office. The defense played a solid game tonight. I believe that this offense can compete against anybody, but I had some doubts about the defense. Tonight they showed they were really coming around and did so against one of the elite offenses in the game.
Go Hawks!
Why would you ever move on from such a delightfully weird, yet wonderfully talented QB like RW?
Never change Russ. Keep drinking that weird water. NANO BUBBLES!
Those that believe that the best way to win a Super Bowl is to have the QB on a cheap rookie contract and anytime RW randomly over throws a receiver they have a compulsion to beat that drum.
I didn’t expect a win. I’m a diehard fan from way back, and I love this team, but I did not expect this win.
I was worried about the patchwork o-line. I was worried about injuries on defense. I figured the Chiefs had something to play for, though not at the do-or-die level. I thought Mahomes would pull it out – what a wonderful player he is.
I was wrong. I should have kept the faith. I loved watching RW pull this out, and I loved watching Baldwin’s fierce, relentless game. I loved the way the team stayed with it, the way Carson and Davis ran, the way that patchy O-line gave their all.
Go Hawks.
Our record doesn’t even show how much the 2018/19 Seahawks have exceeded expectations. Who would’ve expected this? Carroll & Co never ceases to amaze.
What. A. Game. I enjoyed that one from start to finish. Fantastic game plan from PC and staff.
Wouldn’t surprise me at this point to see the Hawks in the NFCC game. Dak ain’t any good, they can hang with the Rams and have the better QB. They wouldn’t best N.O. in that dome, but wouldn’t be a big surprise to see them get there.
Chris Carson remains better than 90% of the backs in this league.
Baldwin and Lockett might be the most underrated WR duo in the league.
Rusell ‘f***ing’ Wlson aka MVP candidate. This dude has dragged a PC and Schotty 2003 like offense into the playoffs. Amazing.
Clinching the playoffs against a team like that is a nice Xmas present. 🎁
I ain’t gonna lie. Dickson’s drop kicks turn me the hell on.
Lol +1
I want to see him hit one from 60 yds for a playoff win.
Genuine sploosh
He’s the best fifth round pick the Hawks have made in forever. Can we do the same for a kicker next year?
— Akeem King had a fantastic game, mostly lining up against Travis Kelce.
This can’t be mentioned enough. Kelce mostly had a quiet night. Combination of KJ Wright, King and others kept him down the majority of the time. KJ tipping the pass to Kelce on a side-armed pass from Mahomes, early in the game…. magic. The game plan was to keep multiple defenders around the TE and WR/RB…. and it succeeded mostly. They played quarters, single high and some 2 high looks and kept mixing them up. They also were not afraid to bring Wagner on the blitz a few times… 6 man blitz. The DC Norton and HC Carroll both deserve credit for this win. Defensive game plan A number 1 .
(truth / nfl.com)
“We did lose our way for a minute,” Baldwin said. “It was hard to hear the ugly truth about some things at times but sometimes the truth is also beautiful. And it forces you to look at yourself. The truth of the matter is that we had some questions that we had to answer. And we’ve done an excellent job as players, coaches and a staff of asking the hard questions about who we’re going to be. And we’ve figured it out.”
Rob-best for the holidays and thanks for a great year! It’s not only our boys in blue who manage to exceed expectations-you as well with that balance of level-headedness and enthusiasm you bring!
I worried before this one and mostly hoped for a good showing in prime time. What I got was just simply the greatest
X-Mas gift ever! Seems like so many of our young players really, really stepped up! Certainly one of P.C.s finest hours!
Happy Holidays to one and all!
Thanks man! Happy holidays!
Wow at Russell Wilson. An incredible performance by him. That long arcing rainbow pass dropped on a dime was one of the most beautiful thrown balls I think I’ve seen in watching football for 55 years. The pass AND catch to Baldwin for the TD?….OMG it was just perfection on both ends.
Then he somehow escapes the pocket (circa 2012) and runs for about 30 yards.
Then you have Jarran Reed, what a friggin beast he is this year, same with Clark. Hell there were good plays all over the field on both sides of the ball, a killer game to watch, exciting and I’ll tell ya one more thing….Mahomes is fun to watch and is something special. That throw moving to the left then side arming it back to the right for the TD was insanely sick.
Great Game Seahawks !!!!!!
I’ve added a podcast to the top of the article.
I was invited on to the Sea Hawkers instant reaction pod to discuss the game. Check it out!
Meanwhile, in kicker wonderland, Myers continues his ProBowl season. They retained Janikowsky for the wrong reasons, most of whom begin with a $. There is nothing wrong in admitting: this was a major mistake. Kicker is definitely an area, where they need a step forward. I fear, most FA kickers will be much worse than the cream of next drafts top kickers.
But, other than that, a truly fantastic, impressive game.
I think, Carsons game-winning TD (including the drive leading to it) will be my favourite play for the next few years to come. Contested pass to Moore on 3rd and 6, contested pass to Lockett on 3rd and short, contested pass to Baldwin with helluva catch, finally stuffing those two defenders into the end zone…
I don’t have an issue with them cutting Myers at all. He didn’t have a great camp. Janikowski always seemed to have the inside track. And yes Myers made the pro bowl but he hasn’t had a flawless season by any stretch. He’s missed three field goals and three extra points! That’s a two kick difference between Janikowski and Myers.
Those three field goals not made are out of 35 tries compared to 25, while we cannot really compare PATs, because we made more TDs. Myers is younger, has better stats and is cheaper. Bottom line, yes, I had and have an issue with this decision.
But, really, I don’t want to nitpick on this single instance of fail, there is alot they did right this season.
You just used an argument against SeaBass because he’s had fewer kicks, then in the same paragraph said we can’t count missed XP’s because we’ve scored more touchdowns.
Do you not see that glaring contradiction?
What a difference when Baldwin is playing. When together with Lockett that offense is on another level. If Brown is there in the draft it would make sense to grab him if they think he is that dynamic. Having Brown, Baldwin and Lockett on the field at the same time would be a nightmare for defenses and would be depth in case of injury.
Agree we need pass rush/linebacking help but man if the offense ends up on the field longer that will also help the defense.
I don’t think the offense has an issue staying on the field though. I am a big fan of Hollywood Brown but the difference between 10-6 and competing for a playoff bye is most definitely going to be their ability to add more playmakers on defense. If they can do it in free agency, great. If not, it has to come in the draft. Especially with the DL talent in this class.
Yeah I get it. The defensive front 7 needs help. But if Kendricks and KJ come back that leaves the D line. And if they don’t see any worthy Dline free agents then great, draft someone (but they will probably be the 7th best Dline prospect based on where we will be drafting). But if they do like a free agent or two and they draft a playmaker like a tyreek hill, then that would be great also.
Anyway, just going to enjoy the ride and trust them to draft people who will make a difference.Thanks for your writing Rob. Enjoy your even keel approach.
Thanks man. For what it’s worth, I can foresee a scenario where they make a couple of valuable, choice additions in FA to the DL and it potentially opens up a few options in the draft. But it also has to be noted —- they have never fought a draft class before. Just because it’s the 6th, 7th or 8th DL off the board won’t matter. It’s a DL draft. That’s where virtually all the top talent is. The 10th DL taken in this class is going to be better than the first safety taken, for example. So that isn’t really a concern. We’ve seen their willingness to draft for a class strength (receiver 2014, CB in 2017, RB in 2018).
They need a partner in crime for Frank Clark to bookend the pass rush. That is the priority. That or another brilliant DT to play with Reed. Until that is addressed, it has to be the focus. We will see how they go about addressing this. Will be fun to find out.
Yep agree with everything you said. Would be fun to watch Baldwin mentor someone like Brown.
Schneider/Carroll have a couple directions they can go and if they choose to go Dline then great.
Happy Holidays to you and your family.
I could see a scenario where they add a couple vets and draft DL twice. If Brian Burns and or Jaylon Ferguson are great combine testers, I can see pure edge rusher being that first pick, and maybe a value two gapping DT likes Greg Gaines later on. Just get that rotation deep again.
Let’s. Gooooo!
Have we finally, FINALLY, found an answer to covering TEs?! Great job by King on a tough assignment. Delano Hill up to the task as well. Coleman with the huge forced fumble to take points off the board.
How about Ed Dickson? That 3rd down conversion was just wanting it more. Huge momentum swing I feel. And the TD catch was pretty as well.
Credit to Solari and the OL. Nuff said.
Great game plan by the coaches to make the most of the players we had available. We left some points on the board in the first half, but stuck to it and persevered.
I know most of the starters will probably start next week, but I sure hope they rest Carson. That man is our playoff hopes right there and we need him fresh for Wild Card weekend. Congrats on the 1000 yds. Wouldn’t mind Baldwin, Reed, McDougald and Fluker sitting either, along with anyone else who is banged up.
Some more love coming PCs way from the national writers too. Glad to see it:
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001004000/article/this-may-be-pete-carrolls-finest-season-as-seahawks-coach
I was not optimistic, to tell the truth, but what a performance to get the job done in style. And back to the playoffs! Merry Christmas, SDB!
Great win yesterday. I said to the gang at beginning of 4 th quarter that Seahawks needed at least two more touchdowns to win the game. Well they did it and they won! Great game!
Wilson had his long bomb touch back, aided by some incredible catches. I’m glad they didn’t review that TD to the left pylon as it looked like only one foot down from my angle. I was surprised there wasnt a long delay for review. Baldwin and Lockett made some extrodinary catches. The tight end showed some good hands again. Carson showed great effort and tenacity.
I have to wonder how much of my previous impressions of a sputtering offense were because of the injuries to the offensive line. Fant managed a couple holding calls that seemed minor. Do the refs just call them in first half or did he clean up his act? Either way I’m glad he is back on the field. The only consistency on the line has been Brown, Sweezy and Britt.
Defense kept up with the Chiefs high powered offense, and that is all you can ask. Though I did feel like Mahone could run to his right any time he wanted on passing plays.
Pete Carroll should be given a medal for the turnaround. Go Hawks!
All TD’s are reviewed just extraordinary catch. I was at the game and it was electric, crowd loud and fun. Inconsistent sometimes this team is just really fun to watch and cheer on. I was worried about our secondary against this loaded KC receiver/TE group but Griffin, Flowers, McDougald, Hill, Coleman, King and Hill all had very good games. Thought KC did a really good job running against us and they had big holes to run through much more so than what Carson was seeing it is just that he is such a beast and unstoppable. Great great win. Time to watch the game again on TV. Merry Christmas everyone and a very special holiday season to you and your family Rob. This blog is my daily go to.
Rob, I don’t know if you ever get tired of reading this, but thanks for all thf you do in putting together this site. It truly is some of the best and most insightful Hawks content available. Part of me wishes you’d write more (I need my fix!), but I’m also glad that you limit how much you write because the content is truly worth it. Keep up the good work and happy holidays!
Thank you, that really means a lot 👍🏻
Merry Christmas
first and foremost, an exciting game. Better because we won.
as noted by Rob and a few others, outstanding game by Akeem (who?) King, covering the best TE in the league.
and a great defensive game plan. KC got some scores and some yards (Andy Reid on O is like Pete on D), but were held below their average and Hawks did not commit a bunch of stupid penalties
and how about Delano? Not sure he played great, but did not see him running behind anyone for a TD or long run. Maybe some hope after a lackluster start to his career. He has speed and size
Pocic played well enough to not get his name called other than one penalty. That is o line success.
Russell stepped up and matched Mahomes, and then a little more.
The offense needs DB, gives Russell the extra weapon.
how about Tyler getting the pass interference calls?
David Moore just not there yet, but I expect him to improve next year. Had some good blocks.
Draft, at least 4 players on D, speed, speed, speed.
and find a new kicker,
next, beat Az and hopefully, no injuries.
side note, Brady looks like an old man, and Gronk is a shell of himself. I think both might be done. 🙂
Actually I would like to see them sit players and not win next week. I believe they have a much better chance to win in Chicago than Dallas. The Bears could only put 14 points up on the 49ers, they are not a powerhouse offensive team. If it is cold in Chicago that plays to the Hawks strength, run the ball, throw only when necessary. Plus the incentive of correcting that loss. We saw how the 49ers played in their rematch with the Hawks. The Cowboys would have that incentive.
I feel confident in writing that Pete Carroll will not jockey for playoff position to face a particular opponent.
Personally I kind of like Da’ Bears and will root for them if it’s not us in the NFC. Where as the Cowboys occupy one of my mostly permanent no-likey spots. It’s always fun to see Jerry Jones’ face when he realizes that it’s not happening this year…yet again. I’d be happy for the opportunity to assist him reach that point.
They aren’t sitting guys. And Dallas is a much better matchup than Chicago IMO.
I want anybody but the Bears.
Saints, Rams, idc. Just not Khalil Mack’s defense
I would rather play the cowboys, the Bears have a better defense. And after Seahawks struggled to play the 49ers , I’m surprised that people continue to under estimate them. Mullen’s is the real deal, he can take a hit and can make the throws needed. The team’s poor record was with other backup QBs. Next year they will be even tougher.
Nothing else to say that hasn’t been said.
All I got is Merry Christmas Rib! Thanks for the site and great writing. Cheers!
Merry Christmas!
Pete Carroll on Frank Clark’s future on @espn710 radio show. “He’s not going anywhere. We aren’t losing him.”
Love to hear that.
Merry Xmas!
Totally OT, but shoutout to my 2018 draft crush TE Chris Herndon for a nice game. 6 rec/82 yd/1 TD, including this beauty:
http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-cant-miss-plays/0ap3000001002845/Can-t-Miss-Play-Herndon-snags-SENSATIONAL-one-handed-grab
I guess I have a higher hit rate on guys named “Chris”…? (2017: WR Chris Godwin was another one of my guys) 😉
Merry Xmas Rob to you and your family as well as the rest of the SDB community. Another year of the best Seahawks content anywhere online. Hope everyone has an amazing holiday season.
Merry Christmas!
Thank you for the write-up Rob, and a very Merry Christmas to you!
Merry Christmas!
absolutely loved the game, great win, seemed to have been played in a really good spirit and refs didn’t ruin it. Seahawks are a couple of players away on defence from being legitimate contenders.
some of the younger players should come back better next year having had the playing time.
carson is a beast and Wilson was superb, thought kj made a difference on d.
as others have said this team is just so much more enjoyable to watch than the last couple of years.
Rob thank you for your commitment to this site. I want to wish you & your family a Merry Christmas and Blessed Holiday Season!
Thank you for reading! Merry Christmas!
The only item I’m in disagreement with is Coleman. I think you gave a number for him and let him test the market. Coleman’s can be found and coached up by Pete. The Clarks and Reeds… not nearly as easily done.
Have to disagree. He’s been excellent since the day he arrived, incredibly consistent too. It’s an easy one to forget how badly the Hawks were getting torched in the slot before he arrived. He’s a significantly better player than Griffin and Flowers at the moment, albeit almost a totally different position. A good slot corner makes a huge difference these days.
Akeem King was the Falcons rising star for Slot but they had to let him go because the Falcons don’t manage the budget very well. Seattle picked him up but has been using him on the outside. Kings performance last night is a big development for the Hawks, keep in mind King is faster & bigger than Coleman.
Fair. Who doesn’t get paid?
OL (Particularly Sweezy/Fluker)?
Bobby?
KJ?
Frank?
Jarran?
Any FA of even moderate significance?
Can’t pay them all…
They can pay that list there, no problem.
What they can’t do is then go big in FA and spend for a Clowney or someone like that. But I doubt that is their intention anyway.
“Seattle doesn’t have as much cap room as you think. Only a couple of teams have fewer players contracted for 2019. They’re going to need to add bodies in free agency with only four draft picks.“
Hate to be a contrarian DBag, but… I think you were originally right. Can’t sign everyone on that list and give yourself future freedom. Don’t see it.
(btw… Love ya, Rob, this is the only blog I pay for… Merry Christmas!)
I still disagree on that list. It’s your new core and has to be the priority. They, along with Russell and Bobby, are the priority keeps over the next two years. They can do it, they just can’t splurge on outside guys and need to prioritise the new core over the old guard (especially the ones with a few injuries recently).
Dexter Lawrence along with two other Clemson players tested positive for the performance enhancing drug Ostarine. I will be curious to see whether this impacts his draft position. With three players testing positive, it may also raise a cloud on the other top Clemson players.
You’d have to be seriously naive to think they’re the only ones at it. I’d be more worried about how dumb you have to be to get caught. Players are getting on the juice at 15-16 to get noticed by the big colleges, and then it’s the same story getting to the NFL.
yeah, how dumb to you have to be to get caught by a system that desperately wants you to pass? It is not a drug test – IT IS AN IQ TEST!
and for anyone who thinks that any sports organization REALLY wants to catch anyone, google Victor Conte and watch a few of his interviews. Welcome to the real world. Punishment is not for those who are guilty, but for those who ruin it for everyone else by getting caught
I doubt it affects his draft position.
Probably 50%+ of the NFL uses PED’s. Testing is not done to catch anyone, it is done in a manner to catch very few but to let people think they want it to stop. This has been in the NFL for about 50 years, not going away anytime soon.
Bill Fralic died last week, he admitted to using them in college, was the 2nd pick in the draft, later tried to get the NFL to have real testing. He played at Pitt 35 years ago.
I don’t think steroids/PEDs are a big deal to NFL teams. I think they are dangerous and make the game more dangerous on many levels, but there is too much money involved to slow it down, let alone stop it.
I’m friends with a guy who works as a S&C coach at a seriously, seriously, high level of professional sport. Incredibly well connected. He says that conservatively 85% of players in the NFL are doping to some degree.
Teams won’t even blink over this
Hawks have signed PC to a multi year extension. Yes!!!
He earned every penny.
Great news
“I am excited to announce that we have extended Head Coach Pete Carroll through the 2021 season,” said Jody Allen, Seahawks Chair and Trustee of the Paul G. Allen Trust. “This will continue the championship culture that we have created in Seattle.”
“So grateful to Jody and the organization,” said Carroll. “I love this team and couldn’t be more proud to represent the 12s.”
Ian Rapoport reported that it’s worth more than $11 million per year. https://media.giphy.com/media/s4M7mpYrjk0yk/giphy.gif
So, we’ve guaranteed that Pete Carroll will be the Seahawks coach for 12 years? Auspicious!
Rob,
What are your thoughts on Michael Dickson taking over the kicking game as well as the magic he works as a punter. That 55-yd drop-kick the broadcast showed was phenomenal and he probably had another 5-10 yards on that. Not only that, but it would open up an extra spot on the roster. Only problem that *could* come up is if he were to get injured during a game. We would be up 5h!t creek unless we went with the 4th down bot that the New York Times (?) released.
Quite literally, he would change the game with even more than he already has.
Eric
Not Rob, but I’m not for it.
PC mentioned earlier in the season after a not-great game from Dickson that they are still trying to work out his reps and conditioning. Said Dickson was getting too many reps during the week and it affected his performance on that Sunday.
And as cool as he is, he still has room to improve. He had a 30 something yard punt yesterday (unless he was directed by the staff to short punt it?), and kicked a kickoff out of bounds which gave the Chiefs great field position. Adding place kicking duties to his plate might be a net negative.
I do like all the cool stuff he does and am totally fine with him being the emergency kicker. When Janikowski was hurt I was kinda rooting for the Hawks to use Dickson for a FG try if they got stopped at the 30-35 yard line.
I think he’s best served focusing on punting.
I’m glad your stating that because drop kicks make me sick. Scariest thing ever!
Back in the day, that was how all football was played… with drop kicks. It was actually more like rugby than what we commonly think of as football now-a-days. IF they need him to drop kick kickoffs, I’m all for it….. maybe sprinkle in one or two kicks every week, to keep the kick return teams guessing and watching tape….
Everything between pinning them inside the 5 yard line and an obvious shank is a mystery to me when it comes to Dickson.
Just listened to the podcast and want to say that Rob/Brandon make for a really good listen, much more so than the often taxing Arthur diatribes. Rob– You guys complement each other excellently. This was very much a professional pod cast that I’d like to see (hear) much more of. Excellent and on point, you guys may be meant to be together as Seahawks broadcasters. Thanks for all you do Rob & Merry Christmas to all.
Thanks for listening, appreciate those kind words. Merry Christmas!
The podcast was excellent!
Thank you 👍🏻
Dexter Lawrence has failed a drug test.
Players thought it was a joke at first when Swinney notified them.
Testing of a second sample will clarify this case and shed light on Lawrence’s stock.
I wouldn’t anticipate him dropping much if at all.
Great write up, Rob. Love that you gave Carroll credit, which he deserves tenfold, as shown with his extension today. He really is the only active coach who holds a candle to Belicheck. I told my coworker today that Carroll is the anti Belicheck, being the ‘fun’ coach while Belicheck is the hard butt. Both have been extremely successful. If Pete can get another Super Bowl then his career will be eerily similar to Chuck Noll’s, leaving him at the top of the coaches all time.
For their ability to connect with the inner city guys?
Cable Thanos is up
https://twitter.com/CableThanos_/status/1077379685967949825
Karate sounds when Russ punched Carson lol
RW: “get off me I got #1 offenses to outscore” 😂
ADB’s stank face was one of the highlights of the game for me too. Almost like he didn’t know what to do in front of the camera that time, but it turned out perfect.👌
Naz Jones. Last year he looked like a steal in the third round. This year what happened???
Also Dion Jordan made a couple of nice plays. Last night.
It’s simple. He got beat out by Poona.Naz was good when he did play. One thing, when reporters have asked about Naz, PC does get a little bit terse kind of like the way he did it with a guy named TY McGill. McGill wouldn’t fill his right obligations properly on the run game and would Chase the sack. He was cut. A No worries though. Chances are he will be back next year as they may not keep Shamar. Depth at dt is always great
Rewatching the highlights of the game, I liked seeing the increased use of the FB-makes me nostalgic for the days of M-Rob and The Beast!
Merry Christmas all!
Merry Christmas Rob and blog community!
Go Hawks
Merry Christmas!
Very impressive win indeed. Every team plays better at home, now the Seahawks will have to play their best on the road. 4 of 6 loses coming on the road this season. We’ll see what they can do from here, but my optimism isn’t high for a Super Bowl. What’s most impressive is what we were able to do when so much hadn’t gone our way. The best coaches/staff make the most of what’s given. Seahawks and some college teams have done that this season in spades.
Ultimately the ET debacle blew up in our face. What a shame for him, his legacy here, and the future (compensation) for our team… I did not like how Schneider handled it at the end. Should’ve sat a player you’re about to pull trigger on a trade. Rob is right. Not as much cap space as everyone thinks. A lot more painful changes ahead. Wright is likely gone tho he definitely deserves another deal. Exemplary team player. RW deal in near future complicates things the most. Clark will want a massive deal after a great season. Should’ve resigned him In The off-season… I get the feeling they will need to let someone else go to save cap that won’t sit well with die-hard fans
Merry Christmas!
Ian Rapoport
✔
@RapSheet
The contract extension for #Seahawks coach Pete Carroll is worth more than $11M per year, source said. One of the highest paid coaches in the game… now under contract through 2021.
Party’s on!
Seahawks All Access – Week 16 vs Chiefs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98AD9XezP-k
And Jarran at the end… lol:
Awesome Sea Mode! Saw this a few hours ago. All the close-up intensity of the big plays, player inter-action and in-game coaching is a terrific viewpoint you don’t see when watching the network broadcast. If we continue to run the ball for 150-200+ yards a game and play above avg. D along with Russ making great plays, we could get on a run and make it to the conference finals or possibly SB in a year we were picked my many to be near the bottom of the NFL.
Merry Christmas to all!
And if beating KC wasn’t enough as a Christmas present, nfl.com tells us that the Seahawks have prolonged PCs contract until 2021.
Great News about resigning Pete Carroll. Next year I look for Rasheem Green to become a good player. But 2020 he will become a very good player. Remember Green is only 21 years old. He is only going to get stronger (provided he stays healthy.) I was reading his scouting reports. If Green had waited another year he might have been a top 15 draft selection.
Merry Christmas to Rob and the gang. Love all your commentary.
I’m glad they extended Pete Carroll, coaching is the hidden key to both the Seahawks success and failures.
Merry Christmas 👍🏻
Merry Xmas folks. What did Santa bring ya?
Merry Christmas Kenny 👍🏻
Same to you sir!
Made a pumpkin spice cheesecake w a ginger snap crust and salted carmel and maple whip and about 200 cookies.
Got my Dad a Kam Chancellor jersey FINALLY.
Merry Christmas to everyone. Was really hoping Santa brought tickets for you to Senior bowl week next month Rob. Another great gift for all of us would be that Pete couldn’t make it to the Senior Bowl because he’s too busy preparing the Seahawks for the Super Bowl.
I’ll make it to Mobile one day
Tony Pauline and a few sites have a page each day of the best few players at the practices and game. I have no doubt that when you go, you’ll take it to a new level with extensive pros and cons for each player, pages of info plus videos and podcasts of every day at Senior Bowl week. You always have the top football site on the net with your detailed analysis, looking forward to your report on the college playoff games and players that excel this Saturday. Would like to see Kyler Murray have a great day against Alabama, and on Sunday for the Seahawks to beat the Cardinals with their backups to give the players that need a rest some time off before the playoffs.
Thanks man. If I ever get out there you’re going to love what I have planned.
Merry Christmas Kenny, Rob, C-Dog, Trev, Sea Mode, CHAWK (wherever you are), and everyone else at SDB.
You too sir! Hope all is well and good on your end. Best wishes my friend
Thank you and same to you my man.
Oof drunk driver slammed into all of our parked cars out front.
Everybody is ok nobody was in em. My folks are totalled and im not lookin too hot either hahaha.
Spirits are high but thats a hard bummer.
Dang, tough break. Glad everyone is alright.
Well, maybe easy for me to say from the outside, but if it helps I always try to think: if this were the worst thing to happen to me this week/month/year, I’d be pretty thankful…
Truly. Cop said first time he’s seen a 4 car accident and we all had insurance. “Christmas miracle” he said.
It could’ve been much worse. Thanks for the positive energy y’all
Glad you’re all OK Kenny. Hope it’s not too bad buddy.
Merry Christmas, Volume12
The 5 NFC playoff teams as characters from Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory:
DALLS COWBOYS ARE AUGUSTUS GLOOP:
Augustus is gluttonous and gotten fat off of junk food. The Cowboys have gotten fat and bloated on poor opponents. They only have 2 quality wins (NO and Philly in OT) and have gotten into the tournament by virtue of others’ misfortune (Alex Smith’s leg and Philly having a hangover). Augustus’ mother sports a beehive hairdo, feeds his gluttony and seems to love the media attention (looking at you JJ). He can’t swim in thick chocolate and was the first child to go. So it will be with the Cowboys.
CHICAGO BEARS ARE VERUCA SALT:
Veruca is spoiled rotten and demanding. As soon as she gets something, she wants something else. “Daddy, I want a quarterback!” “Very well dear. San Francisco name your price to move up one spot.” “Daddy, I want a pass rusher!” “Yes Veruca. Oakland, what will it take?” All of this greed is not going to pay off because Veruca’s daddy has backed her into a corner with all the excessive spending. A tight cap situation and very little premium draft capital to replenish with. They have some neat toys but will never find happiness living the way they do. If they don’t win this year or next year, they’re going to fall down a hole into the garbage chute.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS ARE VIOLET BEAUREGARDE:
Violet is the world champion gum chewer, and has collected many trophies in her obsession with always winning. The Saints have collected a lot of trophies (NFA, high consideration for MVP (Brees) and COY (Peyton)). They’re the favorite and feel entitled to snatch the piece of 3-course (3 wins) meal gum. She might enjoy a course or two, but will eventually turn into a blueberry.
LA RAMS ARE MIKE TEEVEE:
In the Johnny Depp version, Mike figures out the algorithm and only has to buy one Wonka bar to get the golden ticket. He’s a genius who thinks he’s got everything figured out and everyone else is an idiot. The coach dazzles with his intellect and thinks he’s reinvented the game of football. But Mike has a poor attitude (Donald, Suh, Peters) and his lack of fundamental personality traits (run defense) will quickly shrink him.
SEATTLE SEAHWKS ARE CHARLEY BUCKETS:
Charley comes from a humble family most other families would look down on. He appears malnourished to many because the roster is lacking some protein, but his strong personality traits (league-best run game/solid team defense) more than make up for it. He has a strong sense of family, and he wouldn’t trade that for the world. It’s been drummed into him by Grandpa Joe (PC), who knows all about how to be successful making candy. Grandpa Joe is by far the oldest of the family members who get to tour the factory, but he can still dance. Throughout the factory tour, Charley never forgets who he is, and despite being paired with snotty entitled brats, his best qualities shine through as they drop off one by one and he is awarded the Lombardi trophy, I mean, the chocolate factory.
HaHa! Oh my God this is incredible cha.
Who are the Oompa Loompa’s?
Schefter, John Clayton, Rapaport, and Peter King
have only see small pieces of the film, so not sure who these guys are…
but kudoos to your analysis
You, sir, win the internet today!!
PC as Grandpa Joe 😂😂
long time Russell critic Pete Prisco has a visit from the ghosts of NFL past and revises his opinion of Russ.
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-week-17-power-rankings-seahawks-in-top-10-behind-russell-wilson-browns-neck-and-neck-with-steelers/
and some of you guys don’t believe in Santa…….
I’m not as high on RW as most are…… but no matter who you are and how you get it done….. winning is what really matters. It matters how you win and why you win, but ultimately “Just Win Baby” is the goal each and every year. RW has done that, every SINGLE SEASON he has been in the league. As some have said previously on the blog, with RW helming the team, your SB window is open for business.
As for the multitude of on-line sports hacks, believe your own eyes not some-on-else’s when it comes to RW.
Up until this season, the talk of RW making the HoF seemed a bit contrived. But if he can somehow pull off a SB win in the next 3 seasons…. he will be joining PC in the Canton one day. Soak-up these days, because they might not come again for the Seahawks for a very long time after PC leaves (after 2021?)
The problem with Russ is he has a couple of really bad games a few times each year. And he has a personality that some will love and some will hate. And he does make a couple of “wtf” plays every game, good and bad. He can be one of the top 2 or 3 QB’s in the league, but not when he has a couple games every year where he is a major part of a loss. However, when you step back and look at every other qb, hard to argue he is not in the top 5 or 6 and more than capable of winning a SB. Let’s just hope we don’t see one of his stinkers in the playoffs.
as for replacing him with a younger, cheaper qb in the near future, I doubt it happens. They can pay him and find younger cheaper players at other positions, which is easier than finding a good, cheap QB.
HOF? I think he makes it. 2 SB’s and 2nd highest passer rating ever, but he probably has to play at least 5 more years. He will never have the numbers of Brees or Mahomes, but Pete will get him the wins and playoff appearances. 1 more SB victory will clinch it. Eli will probably get in and he is not as good as Russ, and it is not even close.
Hawk: Here is the problem. Tom Brady, Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers make a bonehead play/throw it is merely written off/ho hum/ no big deal . Russell Wilson makes the same bonehead play and immediately it is magnified, all blown out of proportion.
Russell Wilson 34 TD passes, 6 ints.
Ben Roethlisberger 33 TD passes, 15 ints.
Go figure.
you are right about that, and I think part of that is they throw for more yards, work in a different type of offence. Most people care more about stats than winning, Pete only cares about winning and designs his team to WIN. And, I think a lot of people just don’t like Russ (Carlton Banks Syndrome) and want to give all the credit to the Hawks D and say anyone could have won.
No QB is perfect, they all make mistakes, and Russ gets compared to guys with 5 to 10 years more experience. Of course they can read the D better than he can.
If you step back and look at the big picture, he is among the best in the game right now. Will he ever be considered “The Best”? I doubt it, but if he gets to 2 or 3 more Super Bowls, who cares?
This year he has been better than Brady and Rodgers. As far as crowning Mahomes the best, let’s see how he plays next year. Wentz was amazing last year, this year he was good, but not great. Brees had some off years, Rivers is famous for melting in big games, Ryan gets yards and not wins, and Big Ben can have some bad int’s. Russ will get paid, and the team will still be able to win. replacing him with someone as good is pretty risky.
Hawk: You pretty much nailed it. Agree with everything you said.
Rookie MVP?
I think Barkley will win with the Giants, but you have to put Mayfield in the conversation. He has piled up more wins in 1 year than the last 3 combined. He is easily the MVP for leading the Browns to respectability… and GASP… a possible winning record. I also suspect, his ability to list a downtrodden franchise to new heights will increase (Robs QB man crush) Murray stock. Dare I say, he could go top 5. After the Raiders probable pick around #4, I think he could go… (rolls dice for Jaguars)
I agree about Barkley or Mayfield as OROTY. DROTY has to be LB Darius Leonard or S Derwin James.
I’d guess Mayfield & Bradley Chubb.
Yeah I forgot about Chubb. He’s been great and the Sack #’s are great as well, but not convinced he’s added to their defense like the other 2 have.
It might be a pure coincidence but every time I’ve watched Denver, Chubb has jumped off the screen.
DROTY : I’m gently leaning towards the LB Leonard. He has stabilized and elevated the whole defense, with considerably less players around him… then Chubb, who is working with Von Miller on the DL.
OROTY : Mayfield
A few days late, but I thoroughly enjoyed the hell out of that game! That’s exactly what I wanted to see…the Seahawks beating a great team who had everything to play for. And doing it THEIR way. Granted, the D could use some work, but we know this already. Who knows how far they can take it this year, but if they shore up the D next year and stay healthy this team will terrorize the NFL for the next few years.
P.S. If David Moore can improve his sideline awareness, he’s going to be a WEAPON!
If Seattle doesn’t resign Mike Davis, and I hope they do, keep an eye on Temple’s Ryquell Armstead, but this guy here come day 3 and UDFA.
N. Dakota St’s Bruce Anderson (5’11-6’0, 215-220 lbs.)
Bruce Anderson vs Cal Poly (2018): 🔥
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=SLkvYZv1-28
I like Armstead. Stood out in a game I watched early in the season. I think they’ll keep Davis though.
Wow, that Anderson kid has got some twinkle toes… 😁
Y’all like ND’s Dexter Williams? I think the Hawks will like him. Explosive. 44.5″ vert at SPARQ combine! Lateral agility is also outstanding. That was @195, now he’s up to 5-11, 215, so it will be interesting to see how he tests. I think his burst though is pretty evident on film.
Had a suspension though for internal disciplinary reasons and an arrest for marijuana possession (with 4-5 other ND players in a car where drugs were found), so gotta look into his character. But the guys on his team nicknamed him “Juice”, cause that’s what he brings to the team. Also, zero career fumbles.
Just wondering what your guys’ take on him is.
Dexter Williams//Notre Dame Highlights//ELITE RB
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NW-TLln5TFI
Haven’t seen him. I hope they keep Davis and foremost. Best pass protecting back they got and a very underrated receiver outta the backfield.
Nice feature on Q. Williams:
http://www.nfl.com/labs/cfb247/quinnen-williams/quinnen-williams
Herbert declares he’s staying at Oregon in 2019.
https://twitter.com/oregonfootball/status/1077988744991453184
Saw that earlier. Can’t say I’m surprised. The rumors of him wanting to play with his brother sounded and proved to be legit. Barring an injury, he needed another year to put everything together.
I’m not convinced Seattle will draft a kicker, but I think that it is likely.
We all know the big guy is long in the tooth. He has performed, but if they are looking to squeeze some money out of the salary cap, then a later round kicker might be an option. I’m having a hard time finding a guy who fits the right profile I think they would be looking for….. however.
Has anybody else noticed this?
Every time Mike Davis lines up and lets his mouthguard dangle from his face mask instead of putting it in his mouth, the Hawks are passing, not running?
He did it during the Chiefs game in the 2nd Qtr (re-watching on NFLN) and I swear he’s done it like 3-4 other times this season.
It’s like a pitcher tipping his pitches. Somebody tweet this guy and tell him to knock it off.
Yup.
I’ve noticed it as well. Multiple games.
One thought about Murray:
““I don’t know what you do with a guy that’s 5-9 but he is something special,” He would be a shorter version of Patrick Mahomes (6-2, 225, 4.81). He can be that special. He’d probably run like a 4.4 something. He’s a better football player than Baker Mayfield because he runs so well”.