When the Seahawks announced on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, that they were moving off of Pete Carroll as their head coach, I was, to say the least, surprised. I knew Pete had built something in this organization that had never been seen before: A culture that kept players like Sherm, Kam, Michael Bennett, Cliff Avril, Marshawn Lynch, and others coming back and visiting and lending their expertise to the current Hawks. Therefore, I really felt that when it was time, Pete would leave on his own terms. Instead, he was essentially removed as head coach. Yes, it came across as more mutual, but I'd be willing to bet that had Pete not accepted it, they would have been forced to fire him, and he would not have left on as good of terms. Instead, he will stay on in an advisory role. (Supposedly)
I understand why it was done. I think the main sticking point, the main reason it happened was due to Pete not being able to keep up with the modern game and compete against the younger coaches in the league. If you listen to his press conferences or interviews, you hear that he wanted so badly for the team to do better in certain areas (like stopping the run), but they couldn't. And it was not due to lack of talent. They weren't picking guys off the street or relying upon undrafted free agents. Also, Pete continued to struggle to come out on top against Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay's teams. He had way more experience and was twice their age, but more often than not, the Hawks would come off looking worse in the divisional matchups with their teams.
The next hire could not be more important. The Hawks have a lot of young pieces and could easily make a Super Bowl run next season under the right leadership. Alternatively, the wrong hire could lead to disastrous results where we could see this team head to a larger rebuild, a possible sale of the team, and a very uncertain future. The wrong hire could set off a chain of events that spell doom for this organization. But it could also continue the winning culture set forth not only by Pete Carroll but one of his predecessors, Mike Holmgren. We cannot forget the impact coach Holmgren had, taking a perpetually mediocre team and elevating them to occasional contenders.
Whoever they hire has to be able to enter and immediately command the locker room and garner respect. I don't think he can be too different from Pete Carroll, but he can't be too similar, either. If he's too similar, the players will simply think this guy is trying to be the next Pete Carroll and won't respond as well. However, a coach who is too different will be a bit of a culture shock to players like Geno, Tyler, DK, and Bobby (if he's here) and they won't respond well in that regard, either.
I don't want to get into the specific candidates out there. That's either for another post or maybe I'll evaluate each coaching hire once they are all done.
Honestly, I'm excited. The Hawks haven't had to actually search for a coach really in my NFL-viewing life. Jim Mora Jr. was the heir apparent to Mike Holmgren, and Pete Carroll was hired to replace Mora after he became available. There was never a real thorough process of bringing in multiple coaching candidates for interviews at that time. I'll be excited to hear who flies in for an interview. I'm sure some I'll be wishing they don't get the job and some I'll be wishing they do get the job, and some I'll be in-between on.
Time will tell. I'll definitely detail my thoughts once the hire is made. Whoever it is, the 12s will give their full support and hopefully he can keep the Seahawks as consistent contenders. GO HAWKS.
Showing posts with label Pete. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pete. Show all posts
Friday, January 12, 2024
My Thoughts on the Seahawks moving on from Pete Carroll
Monday, January 3, 2022
Ten Things that went wrong for the Hawks in 2021
The 2021 season was not an ideal one for the Seattle Seahawks. After 17 weeks and just one game left, they sit with a record of 6-10 and no shot at the playoffs. This is the first losing season of Russell Wilson's career and only the second time the Hawks have missed the playoffs since he became the starting quarterback. So, what went wrong? I have compiled a list of ten things that went wrong and, for good measure, I gave them a rating of 1-5 on how worried we should be that this may affect the Hawks going into next year, with 1 being not at all worried and 5 being extremely worried.
1. Russell Wilson's finger injury
Worry scale: 2
It's safe to say that if not for Russ's finger injury, the season would be a lot different. Russ came back and his finger was clearly still trying to heal, as we saw in his first two or three games back, causing the offense to be downright anemic. Before this season, Russ had not missed a single start, so there's not much concern here, although there will be more if he gets hurt again next season (provided he stays in Seattle, of course).
2. Having historically bad time of possession
Worry scale: 5
The Hawks had a nagging problem throughout 2021 that, for too long, they were unable to fix. That is the time of possession battle. You generally want to hold onto the ball on offense more than your opponent, and the Hawks were historically bad at doing this. This stems from the combination of the offense not being able to put together long, sustained drives, and the defense being unable to get off the field when they needed to. This led to the defense wearing out at the end of the game and, in some games, the offense still showing signs of rust going into the 4th quarter. This is definitely concerning, as this issue concerns both sides of the ball and the fundamentals regarding them.
3. Adjusting to a first-year offensive coordinator
Worry scale: 2
Shane Waldron was hired in the offseason, and for a team that wants to win now, he may not have been the wisest hire. He had never been an offensive coordinator before, and that certainly showed at times this season. The last two OC hires, Darrell Bevell and Brian Schottenheimer, had previously been OC's before coming to Seattle. Hopefully, Shane has learned a bit from this season and will improve as an OC going into 2022.
4. Injuries to too many notable players
Worry scale: 1
Injuries are a part of NFL football and always will be. But sometimes you suffer an irregularly high amount of injuries, which hurts your season. The Hawks not only lost Russ to injury for a few games, but stars and leaders Chris Carson and Jamal Adams suffered season-ending injuries, and the Hawks also had to deal with a number of players missing games due to COVID. But this shouldn't be any cause for concern for the future as teams generally don't suffer through two consecutive injury-plagued seasons in a row.
5. Jason Myers' off year
Worry scale: 3
Myers made every field goal in 2020, so expectations were high for 2021. However, he missed a few too many crucial field goals and several PAT's. He was bound for at least a slightly down year, but his regression to the mean was far too severe. Hopefully, he'll bounce back next season and look more like 2020 Myers, and hopefully, 2021 wasn't a sign of things to come for him.
6. Ken Norton Jr's schemes aren't working
Worry scale: 3
Sad to say, I think I would need more than two hands to count the number of times the Seahawks put a defensive tackle into coverage this season. Ken Norton Jr, the Seahawks defensive coordinator, may take pride in the fact his team didn't give up a ton of points, but as of the time of this post, the Hawks had the 2nd worst pass defense in the NFL. They consistently allow receivers to get open, afraid of possibly allowing the big plays. As a defense, you need to tighten up and risk allowing big plays, because otherwise teams go up and down the field on you. Ken Norton Jr. has not realized this, and we can only hope Pete Carroll will swallow his pride and decide to move on from KNJ. The worry scale is at a 3 because he may or may not get fired, and I worry slightly that we won't move on from him.
7. No clutch factor this season
Worry scale: 2
The Hawks have been one of the luckier teams of the past 5-10 years, largely because their offense and defense were known for making big plays when the game was on the line. That was not the case this season. On multiple occasions, the offense was unable to come up with a game-winning drive, and the defense was unable to stop the opposition when it mattered. This is highly unusual for the Hawks, who in years past thrived in close games. Yet the Hawks are 0-5 in games decided by 6 points or less. Just changing two of those five outcomes gives the Hawks a record of 8-8 going into the final week. Also, two of those five close games were started by Geno Smith, and who knows if Russ would've been able to lead us to victories in those games, but our odds certainly would have been better with him.
8. No established running back until late
Worry scale: 2
The Seahawks are definitely better when they have an established back take the bulk of the carries and stay healthy for at least most of the season. That was not the case this season. Chris Carson started the season as the starter, but then a neck injury derailed his season. Alex Collins took over, but he too got injured after several games. Fortunately, Rashaad Penny emerged, but it was too little too late. The Hawks likely won't have a running back even get 700 yards this season. Although to be fair, the Hawks did not have a running back get 700 yards last year, either.
9. Poor offseason additions
Worry scale: 2
Gerald Everett was easily the best addition the Hawks made in the past offseason. Gabe Jackson was solid, if unspectacular. The 2021 draft class, meanwhile, leaves a lot to be desired. Of course, there were only three draft picks, but Eskridge was hurt and under-utilized, Tre Brown showed signs of promise but got hurt, and Stone Forsythe barely saw the field. There was not enough added in the past offseason. The Hawks could have used another cornerback and edge rusher for sure.
10. Pete Carroll
Worry scale: 3
This reason is simply Pete Carroll. Is his "rah rah" style of coaching wearing thin? Possibly. It certainly isn't the best coaching style for a team that is struggling. He's the oldest coach in the league, and his schemes and philosophies seem to be a bit dated by now. I think he could still do well as an NFL executive, but it's time for him to retire from coaching duties. This was certainly a trying year for him, and one could argue his worst coaching performance in Seattle.
2021 was definitely a trying year for the Hawks. I am in the boat that the Hawks do not need to rebuild this coming offseason. Going into Week 18, they have a +21 point differential despite their 6-10 record. They are a few close games from quite a different story this season. If they can focus on the lines, draft smartly, and keep Russ (but maybe make a change at head coach or DC), they can quickly go back to being perennial contenders again in 2022.
Monday, July 27, 2020
My Thoughts on the Jamal Adams Trade
The Seahawks recently acquired safety Jamal Adams from the Jets in exchange for two first round picks, a third round pick, and Bradley McDougald. I have very mixed thoughts on this trade, with my gut telling me we will regret this trade down the line. I hate that the Hawks basically mortgaged their future just to upgrade at a position, and a position that's not even one of the most important, like quarterback, offensive line, or pass rusher.
Most consider Jamal Adams the best safety in the NFL. But you know how often there is a new best player at a position? About every 2 or 3 years on average. Some safeties, I will say, have long and lengthy careers that lead them to the Hall of Fame. Guys like Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu played well into their 30s. The only way this trade works in the Hawks favor is if Jamal Adams has a career like those guys, and leads the Hawks to at least one Super Bowl. I wouldn't say the odds of that happening are high.
There is a huge underlying problem with the Hawks which has caused this team to be top-heavy in talent and have a lot of holes on its roster. John Schneider, Pete Carroll, and the rest of the Seahawks management and scouts can no longer draft well. They can't. They have drafted just two players who made the Pro Bowl with the Hawks since 2013, and both (Lockett and Dickson) made it for special teams. Guys like Germain Ifedi, Malik McDowell, and Ethan Pocic (all first or second round picks) did not pan out. And there are a ton of doubts with Rashaad Penny and LJ Collier.
It's because of this lack of ability to find talent in the draft which has forced the Hawks to spend money; to keep their star QB, middle linebacker, and wide receiver. It's forced them to make these kinds of trades that don't help the team in the long run. Remember the Percy Harvin trade? The Hawks did not win a Super Bowl because of that, they won in spite of that. The Jimmy Graham trade was the start of the dismantling of the offensive line, as Max Unger was traded away. And then Jadeveon Clowney was acquired for a third round pick (and a couple players), and it's looking like may only get one (injury-plagued) season out of him.
This trade for Jamal Adams is another transaction in a series of moves that reek of desperation. The Hawks are still criticized for having one of the worst (if not the worst) combinations of offensive and defensive lines in the NFL. Pete and John hope that the stellar play of their QB, receivers, running backs, linebackers, and secondary can make up for the struggles the lines will undoubtedly have. But as the saying goes, "the game is won in the trenches". And without competent line play, we may just get a lot more of the same thing we've seen the last five years: 9-10 win teams that rely on Russell Wilson magic too much and get knocked out of the playoffs early.
Most consider Jamal Adams the best safety in the NFL. But you know how often there is a new best player at a position? About every 2 or 3 years on average. Some safeties, I will say, have long and lengthy careers that lead them to the Hall of Fame. Guys like Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu played well into their 30s. The only way this trade works in the Hawks favor is if Jamal Adams has a career like those guys, and leads the Hawks to at least one Super Bowl. I wouldn't say the odds of that happening are high.
There is a huge underlying problem with the Hawks which has caused this team to be top-heavy in talent and have a lot of holes on its roster. John Schneider, Pete Carroll, and the rest of the Seahawks management and scouts can no longer draft well. They can't. They have drafted just two players who made the Pro Bowl with the Hawks since 2013, and both (Lockett and Dickson) made it for special teams. Guys like Germain Ifedi, Malik McDowell, and Ethan Pocic (all first or second round picks) did not pan out. And there are a ton of doubts with Rashaad Penny and LJ Collier.
It's because of this lack of ability to find talent in the draft which has forced the Hawks to spend money; to keep their star QB, middle linebacker, and wide receiver. It's forced them to make these kinds of trades that don't help the team in the long run. Remember the Percy Harvin trade? The Hawks did not win a Super Bowl because of that, they won in spite of that. The Jimmy Graham trade was the start of the dismantling of the offensive line, as Max Unger was traded away. And then Jadeveon Clowney was acquired for a third round pick (and a couple players), and it's looking like may only get one (injury-plagued) season out of him.
This trade for Jamal Adams is another transaction in a series of moves that reek of desperation. The Hawks are still criticized for having one of the worst (if not the worst) combinations of offensive and defensive lines in the NFL. Pete and John hope that the stellar play of their QB, receivers, running backs, linebackers, and secondary can make up for the struggles the lines will undoubtedly have. But as the saying goes, "the game is won in the trenches". And without competent line play, we may just get a lot more of the same thing we've seen the last five years: 9-10 win teams that rely on Russell Wilson magic too much and get knocked out of the playoffs early.
Thursday, December 26, 2019
Rating the Seahawks Drafts, 2013-2018
The Seahawks have drafted fairly well in the Pete Carroll/John Schneider era, but
that’s mostly counting the early part of this decade. But how have they been since then? I’m going to look at the six drafts from
2013-2018 and see how they have done. It’s
too soon on 2019, but I can go over the previous six drafts. I’ll give each a letter grade, and a forewarning,
I am not going to be easy on them.
2013: Something you’ll be hearing quite often: The Seahawks traded their first-round pick. This time, it was for Percy Harvin. I don’t think he was worth a first-round pick, especially since with that pick the Vikings selected future Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Yikes. The Seahawks first selection, Christine Michael, was expected to succeed Marshawn Lynch but never could. Guys like Jordan Hill, Chris Harper, Jesse Williams, and Tharold Simon are no longer in the league. Luke Willson and Spencer Ware were drafted, but Ware has had most of his success with the Chiefs. This was not a particularly good draft to follow 2012.
Grade: D+
2014: Again, the first-round pick was traded, this time for more picks. The notable names taken in this class were Paul Richardson, Justin Britt, Cassius Marsh, and Kevin Pierre-Louis. A very meh draft if there ever was one. Britt is the only one still on the team. He has developed into a borderline Pro Bowl center, so there is that. But the rest have not really lived up to expectations, although KPL is doing well… in Chicago.
Grade: C-
2015: Yet again the first-round pick was traded, this time it was included in the Unger/Graham deal. I’d say that trade was not a particularly good one. The Saints took Stephone Anthony with the pick, and he’s bounced around the league a bit and he’s back with the Saints. Meanwhile, the Hawks took Frank Clark and Tyler Lockett with their first two picks, and also Mark Glowinski in the 4th round. Everyone else is out of the league or on another team. Glowinski has had more success in Indianapolis than he did here. Good first two picks, but the trade hurt the Hawks and no one else contributed.
Grade: C+
2016: Hey the Hawks used a first-round pick! On… Germain Ifedi. He sure took a long time to develop, but he’s finally starting to limit the penalties and missed blocks. He’s about average for a right tackle right now, I’d say. But the Hawks also took Jarran Reed, CJ Prosise, Quinton Jefferson, and Joey Hunt, all who are still with the team. Alex Collins did well… with Baltimore. Rees Odhiambo struggled. Not a bad draft, but the only real legit player taken was Reed.
Grade: C
2017: Ah yes, the Malik McDowell draft. He wasn’t a first round-pick, but he was the Hawks’ first pick. The Hawks traded their first-round pick for more picks. The first pick still on the team is Ethan Pocic, who has been a backup offensive lineman only. Shaquill Griffin and Tedric Thompson were taken, two guys who have been fairly decent starters in the secondary. David Moore was also taken in the seventh round, and he’s been a fairly decent contributor. And who could forget Chris Carson, who has now put together two separate 1,000-yard seasons? The Carson pick was a steal, but no one else can really be considered a great pick. The Carson pick basically cancels out the McDowell pick.
Grade: C
2018: A very mixed bag in this draft. The first pick, Penny, has been a decent backup to Carson, but was a stretch as the first-round pick. Rasheem Green, Shaquem Griffin, and Tre Flowers have been decent but unspectacular contributors on defense. Will Dissly has been a nice find, if he could only stay healthy. And Michael Dickson was actually a great pick as a fifth rounder as he could be the Hawks’ punter for many years. Yet again a draft where there doesn’t seem to be any Pro Bowl caliber players.
Grade: C-
GPA: 1.83 (C-)
As you can tell, the Hawks haven’t drafted horribly because I didn’t give them an F grade, but they certainly haven’t drafted particularly well, either, because I didn’t even give out any B or A grades. Pete and John draft a lot of just okay players. They don’t seem to be able to find diamonds in the rough anymore. When Pete first came to the Hawks in 2010, he was able to draft a lot of the guys he recruited and scouted while head coach at USC. He knew their strengths and weaknesses better than perhaps anyone, and he knew who would fit into his system with the Hawks. Now having been out of the college ranks for almost a decade, Pete is no longer quite as in touch with the college players and it’s a bit more of a guessing game for him. And he and John aren’t guessing particularly well.
Here’s something that ought to stand out. From 2010 to 2012, Pete and John drafted eight players who have made a Pro Bowl. From 2013 to 2018, in twice as many years, Pete and John drafted just two players who have made a Pro Bowl (Lockett and Dickson). And each of those guys only made it once. If you count Pro Bowl appearances, the numbers are TWENTY-EIGHT Pro Bowl appearances to just two. Clearly, the drafts since then did not go quite as well. They are relying on Wilson and Wagner to carry the team, but they are failing to support them with other Pro Bowl caliber players. And that is why the Hawks will not get to another Super Bowl under Carroll and Schneider, unless they start drafting better.
2013: Something you’ll be hearing quite often: The Seahawks traded their first-round pick. This time, it was for Percy Harvin. I don’t think he was worth a first-round pick, especially since with that pick the Vikings selected future Pro Bowl cornerback Xavier Rhodes. Yikes. The Seahawks first selection, Christine Michael, was expected to succeed Marshawn Lynch but never could. Guys like Jordan Hill, Chris Harper, Jesse Williams, and Tharold Simon are no longer in the league. Luke Willson and Spencer Ware were drafted, but Ware has had most of his success with the Chiefs. This was not a particularly good draft to follow 2012.
Grade: D+
2014: Again, the first-round pick was traded, this time for more picks. The notable names taken in this class were Paul Richardson, Justin Britt, Cassius Marsh, and Kevin Pierre-Louis. A very meh draft if there ever was one. Britt is the only one still on the team. He has developed into a borderline Pro Bowl center, so there is that. But the rest have not really lived up to expectations, although KPL is doing well… in Chicago.
Grade: C-
2015: Yet again the first-round pick was traded, this time it was included in the Unger/Graham deal. I’d say that trade was not a particularly good one. The Saints took Stephone Anthony with the pick, and he’s bounced around the league a bit and he’s back with the Saints. Meanwhile, the Hawks took Frank Clark and Tyler Lockett with their first two picks, and also Mark Glowinski in the 4th round. Everyone else is out of the league or on another team. Glowinski has had more success in Indianapolis than he did here. Good first two picks, but the trade hurt the Hawks and no one else contributed.
Grade: C+
2016: Hey the Hawks used a first-round pick! On… Germain Ifedi. He sure took a long time to develop, but he’s finally starting to limit the penalties and missed blocks. He’s about average for a right tackle right now, I’d say. But the Hawks also took Jarran Reed, CJ Prosise, Quinton Jefferson, and Joey Hunt, all who are still with the team. Alex Collins did well… with Baltimore. Rees Odhiambo struggled. Not a bad draft, but the only real legit player taken was Reed.
Grade: C
2017: Ah yes, the Malik McDowell draft. He wasn’t a first round-pick, but he was the Hawks’ first pick. The Hawks traded their first-round pick for more picks. The first pick still on the team is Ethan Pocic, who has been a backup offensive lineman only. Shaquill Griffin and Tedric Thompson were taken, two guys who have been fairly decent starters in the secondary. David Moore was also taken in the seventh round, and he’s been a fairly decent contributor. And who could forget Chris Carson, who has now put together two separate 1,000-yard seasons? The Carson pick was a steal, but no one else can really be considered a great pick. The Carson pick basically cancels out the McDowell pick.
Grade: C
2018: A very mixed bag in this draft. The first pick, Penny, has been a decent backup to Carson, but was a stretch as the first-round pick. Rasheem Green, Shaquem Griffin, and Tre Flowers have been decent but unspectacular contributors on defense. Will Dissly has been a nice find, if he could only stay healthy. And Michael Dickson was actually a great pick as a fifth rounder as he could be the Hawks’ punter for many years. Yet again a draft where there doesn’t seem to be any Pro Bowl caliber players.
Grade: C-
GPA: 1.83 (C-)
As you can tell, the Hawks haven’t drafted horribly because I didn’t give them an F grade, but they certainly haven’t drafted particularly well, either, because I didn’t even give out any B or A grades. Pete and John draft a lot of just okay players. They don’t seem to be able to find diamonds in the rough anymore. When Pete first came to the Hawks in 2010, he was able to draft a lot of the guys he recruited and scouted while head coach at USC. He knew their strengths and weaknesses better than perhaps anyone, and he knew who would fit into his system with the Hawks. Now having been out of the college ranks for almost a decade, Pete is no longer quite as in touch with the college players and it’s a bit more of a guessing game for him. And he and John aren’t guessing particularly well.
Here’s something that ought to stand out. From 2010 to 2012, Pete and John drafted eight players who have made a Pro Bowl. From 2013 to 2018, in twice as many years, Pete and John drafted just two players who have made a Pro Bowl (Lockett and Dickson). And each of those guys only made it once. If you count Pro Bowl appearances, the numbers are TWENTY-EIGHT Pro Bowl appearances to just two. Clearly, the drafts since then did not go quite as well. They are relying on Wilson and Wagner to carry the team, but they are failing to support them with other Pro Bowl caliber players. And that is why the Hawks will not get to another Super Bowl under Carroll and Schneider, unless they start drafting better.
Monday, December 23, 2019
Pete Carroll's Time May Be Up
After watching the Seahawks lose embarrassingly at home to the last-place Cardinals 27-13, I have just about had enough. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll can no longer adapt to today's game, and I think it's time for him to retire. He's had a great coaching career, winning a Super Bowl and getting to another. He's the greatest coach in Seahawk's history. But he just doesn't have what it takes to be a decent head coach in this league anymore. His in-game decisions are poor, he restricts his offense and superstar quarterback, and at times seems lost during games.
Pete Carroll has never been known for being a great coach with in-game decisions. He challenges what clearly won't be overturned, he calls questionable timeouts at best, and worst of all, he is ultra-conservative and coaches as if he has a journeyman quarterback. Hawks fans have lost track of the number of times he has chosen to kick a field goal or punt rather than go for a fourth down attempt. He's earned the nickname "No Balls Pete" from many Hawks fans. In just this past Cardinals game I referenced, he sent out his field goal unit on a 4th and one from about the 32 yard line. But after the field goal unit got "messed up up front" (his quote), they had to take a delay of game and then punt the ball away. That's a coaching issue, and that's on him. But the point I'm trying to make is that Carroll time and time again won't let his star quarterback make a play on a 4th down attempt. Even when the Hawks go for it on 4th down (which is rare), he'll usually have Wilson hand the ball off, which the defense often sees coming and stops it. Compare that to the Raven's John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson, who in their game against the Hawks, John actually asked Lamar if he thinks they should go for a 4th down attempt. Lamar said yes, they attempted and converted with Lamar getting the first down himself. Pete instead will take the ball out of his quarterback's hands, whether that be in favor of a punt or field goal, or handing off to a running back.
Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson are both perfect and horrible for each other at the same time. They're perfect because they both stay optimistic no matter what and have a same outlook on the game. However, they're also horrible for each other because Carroll restricts Wilson and doesn't give Wilson the opportunities he deserves. Carroll hired an ultra-conservative offensive coordinator in Brian Schottenheimer, and "Schotty" has largely restricted Russell himself. Carroll has always been a run-first or run-heavy type coach, but his failure to adapt to his star quarterback is costing the Hawks. Carroll and General Manager John Schneider have also failed to surround Wilson with much talent, especially on the offensive line. Since the Super Bowl years, they have still yet to put together even an average offensive line. Instead, Wilson has had to make due with a run-heavy offense and a below average offensive line at best in the five years since then.
Fortunately for coach Carroll, even if the Hawks season ends from this point on in the worst way possible (which would be losing to the 49ers and a first-round exit at the hands of the Cowboys or Eagles), he will be saved because people will point to the massive amount of injuries as to the reason the Seahawk's season, once so full of promise, ended so poorly. But I ask you to look at the Pittsburgh Steelers and their coach, Mike Tomlin. He loses his superstar quarterback for the year, shortly after losing his two best offensive playmakers to other teams. Tomlin also deals with injuries to his team's starting running back, next best receiver, and several other key players. They are still contending for a playoff spot. Think the Hawks would be contending for a playoff spot if they lost Wilson Week 2 and Carson for a few games? Heck no. The injury bug hits the Seahawks and Carroll does not weather the storm as well as Tomlin did.
The Hawks will lose to the 49ers. There is no doubt in my mind. The Hawks will probably play better than they did against the Cardinals, but may still lose by more than one score. The Hawks will then get a #5 seed, and may even beat the Eagles or Cowboys. But they will not beat the 49ers or Saints or Packers in the divisional round. This team is stuck in a state of "pretty good" and have been since Super Bowl XLIX. They're better than the average team because of Russell Wilson, but they can't get any better because Pete is holding them back. We know he can't draft well anymore, and I think he cannot be a Super Bowl-caliber coach anymore. Carroll's best fit is with a team with a great defense and a team built around the run. He can't afford to have money tied up to his quarterback. He'd be a great coach on teams like Chicago or Buffalo. But here, it's just not a good fit anymore.
Edit: Well, the Hawks did lose to the 49ers, but they also almost won. I am still convinced Pete Carroll needs to go. He is unable to get his guys prepared and able to start out strong. We'll see how they do against the Eagles in the playoffs. Technically, the Hawks are still in a rebuild despite still making the playoffs, but without being able to draft capable starters, it's going to be VERY hard to break through and get to a conference championship (or better).
Pete Carroll has never been known for being a great coach with in-game decisions. He challenges what clearly won't be overturned, he calls questionable timeouts at best, and worst of all, he is ultra-conservative and coaches as if he has a journeyman quarterback. Hawks fans have lost track of the number of times he has chosen to kick a field goal or punt rather than go for a fourth down attempt. He's earned the nickname "No Balls Pete" from many Hawks fans. In just this past Cardinals game I referenced, he sent out his field goal unit on a 4th and one from about the 32 yard line. But after the field goal unit got "messed up up front" (his quote), they had to take a delay of game and then punt the ball away. That's a coaching issue, and that's on him. But the point I'm trying to make is that Carroll time and time again won't let his star quarterback make a play on a 4th down attempt. Even when the Hawks go for it on 4th down (which is rare), he'll usually have Wilson hand the ball off, which the defense often sees coming and stops it. Compare that to the Raven's John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson, who in their game against the Hawks, John actually asked Lamar if he thinks they should go for a 4th down attempt. Lamar said yes, they attempted and converted with Lamar getting the first down himself. Pete instead will take the ball out of his quarterback's hands, whether that be in favor of a punt or field goal, or handing off to a running back.
Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson are both perfect and horrible for each other at the same time. They're perfect because they both stay optimistic no matter what and have a same outlook on the game. However, they're also horrible for each other because Carroll restricts Wilson and doesn't give Wilson the opportunities he deserves. Carroll hired an ultra-conservative offensive coordinator in Brian Schottenheimer, and "Schotty" has largely restricted Russell himself. Carroll has always been a run-first or run-heavy type coach, but his failure to adapt to his star quarterback is costing the Hawks. Carroll and General Manager John Schneider have also failed to surround Wilson with much talent, especially on the offensive line. Since the Super Bowl years, they have still yet to put together even an average offensive line. Instead, Wilson has had to make due with a run-heavy offense and a below average offensive line at best in the five years since then.
Fortunately for coach Carroll, even if the Hawks season ends from this point on in the worst way possible (which would be losing to the 49ers and a first-round exit at the hands of the Cowboys or Eagles), he will be saved because people will point to the massive amount of injuries as to the reason the Seahawk's season, once so full of promise, ended so poorly. But I ask you to look at the Pittsburgh Steelers and their coach, Mike Tomlin. He loses his superstar quarterback for the year, shortly after losing his two best offensive playmakers to other teams. Tomlin also deals with injuries to his team's starting running back, next best receiver, and several other key players. They are still contending for a playoff spot. Think the Hawks would be contending for a playoff spot if they lost Wilson Week 2 and Carson for a few games? Heck no. The injury bug hits the Seahawks and Carroll does not weather the storm as well as Tomlin did.
The Hawks will lose to the 49ers. There is no doubt in my mind. The Hawks will probably play better than they did against the Cardinals, but may still lose by more than one score. The Hawks will then get a #5 seed, and may even beat the Eagles or Cowboys. But they will not beat the 49ers or Saints or Packers in the divisional round. This team is stuck in a state of "pretty good" and have been since Super Bowl XLIX. They're better than the average team because of Russell Wilson, but they can't get any better because Pete is holding them back. We know he can't draft well anymore, and I think he cannot be a Super Bowl-caliber coach anymore. Carroll's best fit is with a team with a great defense and a team built around the run. He can't afford to have money tied up to his quarterback. He'd be a great coach on teams like Chicago or Buffalo. But here, it's just not a good fit anymore.
Edit: Well, the Hawks did lose to the 49ers, but they also almost won. I am still convinced Pete Carroll needs to go. He is unable to get his guys prepared and able to start out strong. We'll see how they do against the Eagles in the playoffs. Technically, the Hawks are still in a rebuild despite still making the playoffs, but without being able to draft capable starters, it's going to be VERY hard to break through and get to a conference championship (or better).
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
2019 Seahawks Predictions!
The 2019 NFL season is almost underway, and as I do every year, I talk about my Seahawks. The Seahawks go into 2019 after coming off a season in which they made the playoffs but failed to win a playoff game. That's the first time in the Russell Wilson era that after making the playoffs the Hawks failed to win a playoff game. I will go game by game predicting the outcome as I always do. This time, however, I am going to do something new. At the end, I'm going to go position by position and compare 2019's starters to 2018's. This will show how much the team has improved or regressed from last year, and should hold up to my comparison for the Hawks Win/Loss record. Here we go!
Week 1 vs. Cincinnati Bengals: Win 24-13 (1-0)
First off, if there is any game that you can pencil in as a victory on the Hawk's schedule, it is this one. The Bengals are expected to be one of the worst teams in the AFC and will be without their star wide receiver (and perhaps best player) in A.J. Green. Now the reason this isn't more of a blowout is because the Seahawks usually get off to a slow start offensively when the season begins. But the defense should shine.
Week 2 at Pittsburgh Steelers: Loss, 28-20 (1-1)
The Hawks have never scored a single point at Heinz Field... ever. Since the stadium opened in 2001, the Hawks have played two games there and were shut out both times. I think it's a safe bet to say the Hawks score in this one. However, I still think the Hawks remain winless there and fall in a fairly close one. The Hawks almost always lose to an AFC team every year, and this will be the one AFC loss this year.
Week 3 vs. New Orleans Saints: Win, 31-21 (2-1)
The Hawks have always played the Saints well at Century Link Field, and it remains that way. I also expect a bit of a down season from the Saints so that should help the Hawks' chances. I think it'll be a close game til late when Chris Carson pulls off Beastquake 2.0 (or 3.0?) and gives the Hawks a two-score lead for good.
Week 4 at Arizona Cardinals: Loss, 24-23 (2-2)
I hate playing in Arizona. That field has given our players so many injuries. Arizona, even though they haven't been that great in recent years, has always been a thorn in our side and will continue to be. The Hawks barely lose to a Cardinals team they probably should've beaten, and Kyler Murray gets his first signature win in the NFL.
Week 5 vs. Los Angeles Rams: Win, 35-31 (3-2)
We need to beat the Rams at home and by golly we will. Having the short week can be both a positive and negative but it works in the Hawks favor this time, as well as having the 12th Man for a prime time game. Russ goes off and the Hawks avoid having a losing record five weeks in.
Week 6 at Cleveland Browns: Win, 27-16 (4-2)
It almost isn't fair this week. The Hawks come off 10 days rest having last played two Thursdays ago. Meanwhile, the Browns come off of only 6 days rest thanks to playing on Monday Night Football the previous week. The Hawks use that to their advantage and beat the Brownies. We see OBJ yell at someone on the sidelines (probably Mayfield). Could this be the start of the Browns demise? If it's at the hands of the Seahawks, I wouldn't mind that at all.
Week 7 vs. Baltimore Ravens: Win, 22-17 (5-2)
In the Earl Thomas revenge game, the Hawks do indeed get revenge. Earl doesn't even factor into the game much and the Hawks take care of the Ravens. Lamar Jackson struggles throwing the ball and has to resort to screens and running the ball himself. And in a game where both teams are known for running more than passing, that's exactly what we get. We don't see a ton of punts or possessions thanks to all the running causing the clock to keep going.
Week 8 at Atlanta Falcons: Loss, 30-26 (5-3)
Alas, the Hawks three game winning streak comes to an end. The Hawks hang with the Falcons for most of the game, but the Falcons get the ball down 26-23, and while a FG does tie it, they go for the win and get a go ahead score, and the Hawks are unable to match it. I predict the Falcons to be a better team in 2019, so if that is the case, this will be a very tough game to win. Doable, but tough.
Week 9 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Win, 28-19 (6-3)
In a game that'll probably feature a Gay (TB) and a Dickson (SEA), we see a mostly uneventful game. The Hawks offense does just enough and Tampa Bay makes too many mistakes. Perhaps this is the game Jameis gets benched during. Or perhaps he's already been benched.
Week 10 at San Francisco 49ers: Loss, 30-28 (6-4)
Even more than losing to the Cardinals, I hate losing to the 49ers. Last year the 49ers won a game the Hawks definitely should've won, and we see the same thing again this year. The 49ers win thanks to a controversial official ruling that leaves Hawks fans steaming.
Week 11 BYE
Week 12 at Philadelphia Eagles: Loss, 34-24 (6-5)
The Eagles hand the Hawks their most lopsided loss of 2019. The Hawks compete and are in it in the 4th quarter down just 27-24, but a late pick-six thrown by Russ seals the game for the Eagles. The Hawks go into Week 13 worrying about their playoff hopes.
Week 13 vs. Minnesota Vikings: Win, 17-14 (7-5)
In a tough, defensive battle, the Hawks come out on top barely. This is the lone Monday night game, and I feel like we usually have one of our primetime games being a low-scoring tight game. This will be it in 2019. Jason Myers kicks a game winning field goal to put the Hawks at 7-5.
Week 14 at Los Angeles Rams: Loss, 29-20 (7-6)
In the final game the Hawks ever play at the Coliseum, the Hawks still cannot win there (again). In a game needed by both teams the Rams come out on top and pretty much clinch the NFC West with this victory.
Week 15 at Carolina Panthers: Win, 23-16 (8-6)
The Hawks have done well at Bank of America stadium, excluding that one playoff game... grr... This time is no different as the Hawks win a semi-low scoring game. The Panthers leave wondering what they have to do to beat the Hawks at home in the regular season.
Week 16 vs. Arizona Cardinals: Win, 34-14 (9-6)
In what may end up being the most pivotal game for the Hawks this season, they easily take care of the Cardinals to better their playoff chances. Russ goes off for close to 400 yards and the defense stymies Murray for the most part.
Week 17 vs. San Francisco 49ers: Win, 28-21 (10-6)
I'm not gonna lie, this game could determine which of these teams makes the playoffs. If my NFL predictions end up being what they are, that means going into this game the Hawks would be 9-6 and the 49ers 8-7. A victory for the 49ers would give them the tiebreaker over the Hawks because they would've beaten them twice. But the Hawks take care of business and secure a playoff spot for the seventh time in eight years.
Well, you know how the Hawks do if you read the other post. If not, I'll spoil it here. The Hawks win in the wild card round at Philly and get revenge for that week 12 loss, but then lose in the divisional round to the Rams. I know, I hate it. But I'm going for accuracy, not what I want. But the Hawks can again use this season to build off of to try to improve for 2020.
And now, to compare the position groups from last year to this year. If most of the players remain the same, I give it an even or a "push". I also will use small improvements and small regressions vs. big improvements and big regressions. Big results have an effect of 2 points, and small 1.
QB: Push
The only difference being the backup. We go from Hundley to either Smith or Lynch. Either way, they're not expected to see any significant time. Easy push.
RB: Push
We lost Mike Davis, so why the push? Rashaad Penny is going into his second year and I think he'll be even better than last year. Plus, Davis was not a featured back. Whoever our 3rd guy is shouldn't be much of a drop off, if at all.
WR: Small regression (-1, Score: -1)
Losing a leader in Baldwin hurts. I'll admit that. But we drafted three different wide receivers, one of whom in D.K. Metcalf could be a star. Because of the lack of experience I say a small regression.
TE: Push
Yet another push. We get Dissly back from injury so if he can stay healthy that'll be a bonus. Also added Jacob Hollister. But it's not a significant enough of an improvement.
OL: Small improvement (+1, Score: 0)
It's not that I didn't like Sweezy, but he just struggled at times last year, especially for a veteran. I like Mike Iupati, and for the first time in a while I can say our line should be very solid from left to right. Ifedi hopefully will keep making strides. The main key, as with any offensive line, is staying healthy. If they can stay healthy, they'll be a top 10 line for sure.
DL: Big regression (-2, Score: -2)
Frank Clark is not easily replaced. I hate that we had to trade him, but it made sense. His "replacement" in L.J. Collier just got hurt and might get off to a slow start thanks to missing training camp/preseason. On top of that, we lost our best nose tackle Jarran Reed six games to suspension. We're relying on guys like Green and Martin and Ford, and hopefully at least one can step up.
LB: Small improvement (+1, Score: -1)
We have a 99 overall player according to Madden in our linebacking crew. That's awesome. K.J. and Kendricks should solidify the outsides. But the reason for improvement is the depth added by drafting Cody Barton and Ben Burr-Kirven. I think Barton at least is a stud. I don't recall having such great depth like this at the linebacking position ever.
DB: Small improvement (+1, Score: 0)
Shaquill Griffin is determined to rebound from a mediocre at best 2018 performance. He was constantly rated towards the bottom of cornerbacks by Pro Football Focus. But that's not the reason for improvement. Drafting Blair and Abadi should add depth we need. I think we'll see improvements from both Flowers and Thompson, and let's not forget perhaps the most underrated safety in the NFL in Bradley McDougald. These guys should benefit from another year together.
Special Teams: Large improvement (+2, Score: 2)
Replacing Janikowski with Myers is reason for +1 points alone. If only we had just gone with Myers last year in training camp. Oh well, hindsight is 20/20. We also drafted a bunch of guys who will probably excel on special teams coverage like the aforementioned linebackers and Travis Homer. I really expect special teams to be one of the Hawks strengths in 2019.
So overall, I have the Hawks better by 2 points. I have them improved at 4 positions and worse at only 2. Yet I predicted the same record they had last year. In other words, I expect the Seahawks to go at least 10-6. Anything less for me would be a disappointment. Some say the Hawks have a difficult schedule. I think it's doable. I am not only hoping but predicting the two divisions (outside of their own) the Seahawks have to play (The NFC South and AFC North) aren't that strong. I am actually predicting a total of three winning teams between the two divisions.
Oh, and before I forget, I might as well predict who I think will lead the Seahawks in categories that aren't a given (Passing TD's for example is a given: Russ)
Rushing Yards: Carson
Rushing TD's: Penny
Receiving TD's: Dissly
Receiving Yards: Lockett
Receptions: Lockett
Tackles: Wagner
Sacks: Ansah
Interceptions: Griffin
Gum chewed: Pete Carroll
Pep Talks given to teammates: Wilson
Here's to a successful 2019 season and as always, GO HAWKS!!!
Week 1 vs. Cincinnati Bengals: Win 24-13 (1-0)
First off, if there is any game that you can pencil in as a victory on the Hawk's schedule, it is this one. The Bengals are expected to be one of the worst teams in the AFC and will be without their star wide receiver (and perhaps best player) in A.J. Green. Now the reason this isn't more of a blowout is because the Seahawks usually get off to a slow start offensively when the season begins. But the defense should shine.
Week 2 at Pittsburgh Steelers: Loss, 28-20 (1-1)
The Hawks have never scored a single point at Heinz Field... ever. Since the stadium opened in 2001, the Hawks have played two games there and were shut out both times. I think it's a safe bet to say the Hawks score in this one. However, I still think the Hawks remain winless there and fall in a fairly close one. The Hawks almost always lose to an AFC team every year, and this will be the one AFC loss this year.
Week 3 vs. New Orleans Saints: Win, 31-21 (2-1)
The Hawks have always played the Saints well at Century Link Field, and it remains that way. I also expect a bit of a down season from the Saints so that should help the Hawks' chances. I think it'll be a close game til late when Chris Carson pulls off Beastquake 2.0 (or 3.0?) and gives the Hawks a two-score lead for good.
Week 4 at Arizona Cardinals: Loss, 24-23 (2-2)
I hate playing in Arizona. That field has given our players so many injuries. Arizona, even though they haven't been that great in recent years, has always been a thorn in our side and will continue to be. The Hawks barely lose to a Cardinals team they probably should've beaten, and Kyler Murray gets his first signature win in the NFL.
Week 5 vs. Los Angeles Rams: Win, 35-31 (3-2)
We need to beat the Rams at home and by golly we will. Having the short week can be both a positive and negative but it works in the Hawks favor this time, as well as having the 12th Man for a prime time game. Russ goes off and the Hawks avoid having a losing record five weeks in.
Week 6 at Cleveland Browns: Win, 27-16 (4-2)
It almost isn't fair this week. The Hawks come off 10 days rest having last played two Thursdays ago. Meanwhile, the Browns come off of only 6 days rest thanks to playing on Monday Night Football the previous week. The Hawks use that to their advantage and beat the Brownies. We see OBJ yell at someone on the sidelines (probably Mayfield). Could this be the start of the Browns demise? If it's at the hands of the Seahawks, I wouldn't mind that at all.
Week 7 vs. Baltimore Ravens: Win, 22-17 (5-2)
In the Earl Thomas revenge game, the Hawks do indeed get revenge. Earl doesn't even factor into the game much and the Hawks take care of the Ravens. Lamar Jackson struggles throwing the ball and has to resort to screens and running the ball himself. And in a game where both teams are known for running more than passing, that's exactly what we get. We don't see a ton of punts or possessions thanks to all the running causing the clock to keep going.
Week 8 at Atlanta Falcons: Loss, 30-26 (5-3)
Alas, the Hawks three game winning streak comes to an end. The Hawks hang with the Falcons for most of the game, but the Falcons get the ball down 26-23, and while a FG does tie it, they go for the win and get a go ahead score, and the Hawks are unable to match it. I predict the Falcons to be a better team in 2019, so if that is the case, this will be a very tough game to win. Doable, but tough.
Week 9 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Win, 28-19 (6-3)
In a game that'll probably feature a Gay (TB) and a Dickson (SEA), we see a mostly uneventful game. The Hawks offense does just enough and Tampa Bay makes too many mistakes. Perhaps this is the game Jameis gets benched during. Or perhaps he's already been benched.
Week 10 at San Francisco 49ers: Loss, 30-28 (6-4)
Even more than losing to the Cardinals, I hate losing to the 49ers. Last year the 49ers won a game the Hawks definitely should've won, and we see the same thing again this year. The 49ers win thanks to a controversial official ruling that leaves Hawks fans steaming.
Week 11 BYE
Week 12 at Philadelphia Eagles: Loss, 34-24 (6-5)
The Eagles hand the Hawks their most lopsided loss of 2019. The Hawks compete and are in it in the 4th quarter down just 27-24, but a late pick-six thrown by Russ seals the game for the Eagles. The Hawks go into Week 13 worrying about their playoff hopes.
Week 13 vs. Minnesota Vikings: Win, 17-14 (7-5)
In a tough, defensive battle, the Hawks come out on top barely. This is the lone Monday night game, and I feel like we usually have one of our primetime games being a low-scoring tight game. This will be it in 2019. Jason Myers kicks a game winning field goal to put the Hawks at 7-5.
Week 14 at Los Angeles Rams: Loss, 29-20 (7-6)
In the final game the Hawks ever play at the Coliseum, the Hawks still cannot win there (again). In a game needed by both teams the Rams come out on top and pretty much clinch the NFC West with this victory.
Week 15 at Carolina Panthers: Win, 23-16 (8-6)
The Hawks have done well at Bank of America stadium, excluding that one playoff game... grr... This time is no different as the Hawks win a semi-low scoring game. The Panthers leave wondering what they have to do to beat the Hawks at home in the regular season.
Week 16 vs. Arizona Cardinals: Win, 34-14 (9-6)
In what may end up being the most pivotal game for the Hawks this season, they easily take care of the Cardinals to better their playoff chances. Russ goes off for close to 400 yards and the defense stymies Murray for the most part.
Week 17 vs. San Francisco 49ers: Win, 28-21 (10-6)
I'm not gonna lie, this game could determine which of these teams makes the playoffs. If my NFL predictions end up being what they are, that means going into this game the Hawks would be 9-6 and the 49ers 8-7. A victory for the 49ers would give them the tiebreaker over the Hawks because they would've beaten them twice. But the Hawks take care of business and secure a playoff spot for the seventh time in eight years.
Well, you know how the Hawks do if you read the other post. If not, I'll spoil it here. The Hawks win in the wild card round at Philly and get revenge for that week 12 loss, but then lose in the divisional round to the Rams. I know, I hate it. But I'm going for accuracy, not what I want. But the Hawks can again use this season to build off of to try to improve for 2020.
And now, to compare the position groups from last year to this year. If most of the players remain the same, I give it an even or a "push". I also will use small improvements and small regressions vs. big improvements and big regressions. Big results have an effect of 2 points, and small 1.
QB: Push
The only difference being the backup. We go from Hundley to either Smith or Lynch. Either way, they're not expected to see any significant time. Easy push.
RB: Push
We lost Mike Davis, so why the push? Rashaad Penny is going into his second year and I think he'll be even better than last year. Plus, Davis was not a featured back. Whoever our 3rd guy is shouldn't be much of a drop off, if at all.
WR: Small regression (-1, Score: -1)
Losing a leader in Baldwin hurts. I'll admit that. But we drafted three different wide receivers, one of whom in D.K. Metcalf could be a star. Because of the lack of experience I say a small regression.
TE: Push
Yet another push. We get Dissly back from injury so if he can stay healthy that'll be a bonus. Also added Jacob Hollister. But it's not a significant enough of an improvement.
OL: Small improvement (+1, Score: 0)
It's not that I didn't like Sweezy, but he just struggled at times last year, especially for a veteran. I like Mike Iupati, and for the first time in a while I can say our line should be very solid from left to right. Ifedi hopefully will keep making strides. The main key, as with any offensive line, is staying healthy. If they can stay healthy, they'll be a top 10 line for sure.
DL: Big regression (-2, Score: -2)
Frank Clark is not easily replaced. I hate that we had to trade him, but it made sense. His "replacement" in L.J. Collier just got hurt and might get off to a slow start thanks to missing training camp/preseason. On top of that, we lost our best nose tackle Jarran Reed six games to suspension. We're relying on guys like Green and Martin and Ford, and hopefully at least one can step up.
LB: Small improvement (+1, Score: -1)
We have a 99 overall player according to Madden in our linebacking crew. That's awesome. K.J. and Kendricks should solidify the outsides. But the reason for improvement is the depth added by drafting Cody Barton and Ben Burr-Kirven. I think Barton at least is a stud. I don't recall having such great depth like this at the linebacking position ever.
DB: Small improvement (+1, Score: 0)
Shaquill Griffin is determined to rebound from a mediocre at best 2018 performance. He was constantly rated towards the bottom of cornerbacks by Pro Football Focus. But that's not the reason for improvement. Drafting Blair and Abadi should add depth we need. I think we'll see improvements from both Flowers and Thompson, and let's not forget perhaps the most underrated safety in the NFL in Bradley McDougald. These guys should benefit from another year together.
Special Teams: Large improvement (+2, Score: 2)
Replacing Janikowski with Myers is reason for +1 points alone. If only we had just gone with Myers last year in training camp. Oh well, hindsight is 20/20. We also drafted a bunch of guys who will probably excel on special teams coverage like the aforementioned linebackers and Travis Homer. I really expect special teams to be one of the Hawks strengths in 2019.
So overall, I have the Hawks better by 2 points. I have them improved at 4 positions and worse at only 2. Yet I predicted the same record they had last year. In other words, I expect the Seahawks to go at least 10-6. Anything less for me would be a disappointment. Some say the Hawks have a difficult schedule. I think it's doable. I am not only hoping but predicting the two divisions (outside of their own) the Seahawks have to play (The NFC South and AFC North) aren't that strong. I am actually predicting a total of three winning teams between the two divisions.
Oh, and before I forget, I might as well predict who I think will lead the Seahawks in categories that aren't a given (Passing TD's for example is a given: Russ)
Rushing Yards: Carson
Rushing TD's: Penny
Receiving TD's: Dissly
Receiving Yards: Lockett
Receptions: Lockett
Tackles: Wagner
Sacks: Ansah
Interceptions: Griffin
Gum chewed: Pete Carroll
Pep Talks given to teammates: Wilson
Here's to a successful 2019 season and as always, GO HAWKS!!!
Saturday, June 8, 2019
Why the Seahawks are poised for a Magical 2019 Season
It's still only June, but for me, it's never too early to talk about the upcoming NFL season. I'm particularly excited for this season. Russ is locked up for 5 years, and the team is looking to build on their 2018 season in which they made the playoffs but lost their only playoff game. I think they will build off that playoff game, and then some. I have five reasons why I believe that to be the case:
1) Easy-ish schedule
Looking at the Seahawks schedule, it doesn't appear to be that bad. They play the AFC North, and that division doesn't appear to be too good for 2019. The Steelers lost their world class playmakers in Brown and Bell. The Ravens lost the heart of their defense and I think Lamar Jackson has a bit of a sophomore slump. The Browns are clearly overhyped and overrated. The Bengals... well they're the Bengals. They also play the NFC South, which shouldn't be its usual great self, either. The Saints are due for a letdown season after two heartbreaking playoff losses. Colin Cowherd is calling it and so am I. The Falcons and Panthers will be fairly competitive, but the Hawks usually don't have much of a problem with them. The Bucs... well we'll see about them. The Hawks also play Philly and Minnesota, two teams with high aspirations but I could easily see us splitting those two games. Then finally, I can see us going 4-2 or even 5-1 in division. Which leads me to...
2) The NFC West won't be that good
The NFC West COULD be a really good division. But it hasn't really been since the 49ers were good. The Rams, like the Saints, are due for a letdown season. Most teams coming off a lackluster Super Bowl performance have an ordinary at best season, which in that case is a disappointment. The 49ers are due for a breakout season, but we said that last year, too. I just don't fully buy into the hype surrounding Jimmy Garoppolo. And the Cardinals will take a year to get there, at least. I have full confidence in saying the Seahawks will AT LEAST compete for the division crown and be in it until the end.
3) Media is counting them out... AGAIN
Last year many were expecting a down season for the Hawks after a large amount of roster turnover. Many predicted 4-12 or 5-11 records. Instead, they won 10 games and got a wild card spot. I think they exceed expectations again. Many are predicting a win total of around 9 games, but I think that's a tad low. I remember back in 2013 before our Super Bowl season, most media "experts" were picking the 49ers to win the NFC West and potentially get back to the Super Bowl. They predicted 9 wins or so, just like for this year. Colin Cowherd said the Hawks will probably compete with the Cardinals for third place. These guys thrive off low expectations, and that's exactly what they got.
4) Offense got better
Our defense should be just as good (didn't get worse... we didn't have Earl for most of 2018 anyway) as last year, but our offense made significant strides. Russ being signed to a long term extension motivates him even more. Penny is poised for a breakout season and should form a tantalizing duo with Carson in the backfield. Dissly returns from injury and if healthy, should provide a decent TE duo with Vannett. We lost Baldwin, but he wasn't his usual self last year anyway. We have a tremendous amount of WR depth after drafting three of them. Either Metcalf, Jennings, or Ursua will break out, and we still have Darboh, Moore, and Brown. Lastly, the line actually improved by replacing Sweezy with Mike Iupati, who is just a beast. Germain Ifedi has another year under his belt and the penalties are slowly going away. I expect our offense to keep us in every game.
5) It's a pivotal and critical season for Schneider and Carroll
Obviously, JS and PC want to win as much as possible. But whenever a season is truly pivotal, it provides that much extra motivation. This year is critical. These next few years will probably be the last of Carroll's as a coach, as the Hawks gear up for another Super Bowl run with Russ. If the Hawks do worse this year, it could mean a bit more of roster turnover and taking longer to get back to true contention, something Pete may not have time for. However, if they get better as I predict (and expect), a Super Bowl birth and title could very well be in the near future.
The Hawks have lost many pieces in the last two years or so: The entire Legion of Boom, Baldwin, Graham, Bennett, Avril. But they've got a ton of young players eager to prove themselves. Kinda sounds like 2012/13, doesn't it? I wouldn't say put all your eggs in the basket for this upcoming season for the Seahawks, but don't be surprised when they get close to the Super Bowl and make a deep run in the playoffs.
1) Easy-ish schedule
Looking at the Seahawks schedule, it doesn't appear to be that bad. They play the AFC North, and that division doesn't appear to be too good for 2019. The Steelers lost their world class playmakers in Brown and Bell. The Ravens lost the heart of their defense and I think Lamar Jackson has a bit of a sophomore slump. The Browns are clearly overhyped and overrated. The Bengals... well they're the Bengals. They also play the NFC South, which shouldn't be its usual great self, either. The Saints are due for a letdown season after two heartbreaking playoff losses. Colin Cowherd is calling it and so am I. The Falcons and Panthers will be fairly competitive, but the Hawks usually don't have much of a problem with them. The Bucs... well we'll see about them. The Hawks also play Philly and Minnesota, two teams with high aspirations but I could easily see us splitting those two games. Then finally, I can see us going 4-2 or even 5-1 in division. Which leads me to...
2) The NFC West won't be that good
The NFC West COULD be a really good division. But it hasn't really been since the 49ers were good. The Rams, like the Saints, are due for a letdown season. Most teams coming off a lackluster Super Bowl performance have an ordinary at best season, which in that case is a disappointment. The 49ers are due for a breakout season, but we said that last year, too. I just don't fully buy into the hype surrounding Jimmy Garoppolo. And the Cardinals will take a year to get there, at least. I have full confidence in saying the Seahawks will AT LEAST compete for the division crown and be in it until the end.
3) Media is counting them out... AGAIN
Last year many were expecting a down season for the Hawks after a large amount of roster turnover. Many predicted 4-12 or 5-11 records. Instead, they won 10 games and got a wild card spot. I think they exceed expectations again. Many are predicting a win total of around 9 games, but I think that's a tad low. I remember back in 2013 before our Super Bowl season, most media "experts" were picking the 49ers to win the NFC West and potentially get back to the Super Bowl. They predicted 9 wins or so, just like for this year. Colin Cowherd said the Hawks will probably compete with the Cardinals for third place. These guys thrive off low expectations, and that's exactly what they got.
4) Offense got better
Our defense should be just as good (didn't get worse... we didn't have Earl for most of 2018 anyway) as last year, but our offense made significant strides. Russ being signed to a long term extension motivates him even more. Penny is poised for a breakout season and should form a tantalizing duo with Carson in the backfield. Dissly returns from injury and if healthy, should provide a decent TE duo with Vannett. We lost Baldwin, but he wasn't his usual self last year anyway. We have a tremendous amount of WR depth after drafting three of them. Either Metcalf, Jennings, or Ursua will break out, and we still have Darboh, Moore, and Brown. Lastly, the line actually improved by replacing Sweezy with Mike Iupati, who is just a beast. Germain Ifedi has another year under his belt and the penalties are slowly going away. I expect our offense to keep us in every game.
5) It's a pivotal and critical season for Schneider and Carroll
Obviously, JS and PC want to win as much as possible. But whenever a season is truly pivotal, it provides that much extra motivation. This year is critical. These next few years will probably be the last of Carroll's as a coach, as the Hawks gear up for another Super Bowl run with Russ. If the Hawks do worse this year, it could mean a bit more of roster turnover and taking longer to get back to true contention, something Pete may not have time for. However, if they get better as I predict (and expect), a Super Bowl birth and title could very well be in the near future.
The Hawks have lost many pieces in the last two years or so: The entire Legion of Boom, Baldwin, Graham, Bennett, Avril. But they've got a ton of young players eager to prove themselves. Kinda sounds like 2012/13, doesn't it? I wouldn't say put all your eggs in the basket for this upcoming season for the Seahawks, but don't be surprised when they get close to the Super Bowl and make a deep run in the playoffs.
Saturday, April 27, 2019
My Thoughts on the Seahawks 2019 Draft
I haven't done one of these in a while: A review and recap of the Seahawks draft. The reason I'm doing it is because I'm pretty stoked about this draft class. I'll go through each of the picks and give them a letter grade. The letter grade will be based on when the Seahawks selected the player, and how well I think he fits our team. Let's go!
Round 1: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
Grade: C
The reason the grade is a C is because he was yet another first round reach for the Hawks. He could've been taken in the 2nd or maybe even 3rd round. Nevertheless, he's been described as a Michael Bennett-type D-lineman, able to move along the D-line wherever, depending on the down and distance. Bruce Irvin was also a first round reach and he didn't turn out half bad. If LJ is anywhere near Michael Bennett's capability, I'll call this a win. But for now, I stand pat with a C grade.
Round 2: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
Grade: C+
This was also called a reach. But Marquise has some upside, many see him as a Kam Chancellor-lite. He'll probably end up backing up McDougald for the time being and playing special teams. Hopefully he'll blossom and become a starter for years to come.
Round 2: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Grade: B+
The first draft pick the Hawks made that I was legitimately excited for. He's a big-bodied and strong receiver like a Terrell Owens or Josh Gordon, but has speed that beats both of them. He has the potential to be an elite #1 receiver. However, he has injury concerns (who doesn't?) and he ran slower cone drills at the combine than Tom Brady. I kid you not. So he's not an agile receiver. But if the Hawks can use him effectively and he stays healthy, he's going to be an elite receiver.
Round 3: Cody Barton, LB, Utah
Grade: B
The Hawks drafted two defensive players from Utah in their first four picks, so Blair and Barton should be able to help each other out and pull for each other in training camp. Barton will be an excellent special teamer, but could he possibly start if need be? Time will tell.
Round 4: Gary Jennings Jr., WR, West Virginia
Grade: A-
I just found out Gary Jennings Jr. has known Russell Wilson since childhood as Russ coached him at the YMCA he went to. That's awesome. Russ will instantly have a rapport with this guy. Not only that, but Gary has very few if any glaring weaknesses and has less bust potential than Metcalf. If I had to pick who has the longer and more consistent career right now (between Metcalf and Jennings), I'd say Jennings.
Round 4: Phil Haynes, G, Wake Forest
Grade: B+
Solid pick who will most likely be groomed to play guard. With Iupati and Fluker as the current starters, it works out perfectly to have Haynes sit behind them and learn and take over in case of an injury. Keep in mind we still have Roos, Simmons, and Pocic. This is the first time in a while I can say I am happy with our O-Line depth.
Round 4: Ugo Amadi, S, Oregon
Grade: C+
He's a bit undersized, but will be used on special teams and in some nickel packages. Also... he's a Duck... Nevertheless, he's a decent mid-round selection, but my gut says I don't think we'll see him on the team in 3 years.
Round 5: Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
Grade: B-
Don't think we really needed to draft two middle linebackers, but it certainly doesn't hurt. And it's a local kid from UW! I'm excited to see who will do better between Barton and Burr-Kirven, both were Pac-12 middle linebackers. Good to have depth in case something happens to Bobby *knock on wood*.
Round 6: Travis Homer, RB, Miami
Grade: B+
This kid has the fight and tenacity that Schneider and Carroll love. He's an-all around back, too, can block, catch passes, can even play special teams. I would like to see him in the preseason get a bunch of carries to see how he does there. Could be a dark horse pick that gets some carries in the regular season (Think Phillip Lindsay of Denver last year).
Round 6: DeMarcus Christmas, DT, Florida State
Grade: C+
It's Christmas in Seattle! Literally. I'm going to be honest, it could be fairly tough for him to make the roster, but with Shamar Stephen gone there's a chance. He's like Poona Ford a bit, not quite as short though. I could see him backing up Ford and Reed when they need a breather on rushing downs.
Round 7: John Ursua, WR, Hawaii
Grade: C+
Good-looking kid, but he'll find it tough making the roster, even if Doug isn't able to play. Ahead of him are Lockett, Brown, Moore, and the two other Wide Receivers we drafted in Metcalf and Jennings. If he's able to excel on special teams, he could make the roster, but as a fairly-undersized wide receiver that'll be tough to do.
Overall GPA: 2.77 (+.5) = 3.27 or B+
I gave John and Pete an extra .5 because they started with only four picks (before trading Frank Clark) and ended up with 11. Wow. Just the way they were able to trade down and not lose much value was impressive. So I give their draft a B+ as a whole. They did well for the most part, but time will tell how well they did based on the careers of these young men. Hopefully this'll be a draft class like 2011 or 2012 where we can look back on it and say they hit it out of the park.
Round 1: LJ Collier, DE, TCU
Grade: C
The reason the grade is a C is because he was yet another first round reach for the Hawks. He could've been taken in the 2nd or maybe even 3rd round. Nevertheless, he's been described as a Michael Bennett-type D-lineman, able to move along the D-line wherever, depending on the down and distance. Bruce Irvin was also a first round reach and he didn't turn out half bad. If LJ is anywhere near Michael Bennett's capability, I'll call this a win. But for now, I stand pat with a C grade.
Round 2: Marquise Blair, S, Utah
Grade: C+
This was also called a reach. But Marquise has some upside, many see him as a Kam Chancellor-lite. He'll probably end up backing up McDougald for the time being and playing special teams. Hopefully he'll blossom and become a starter for years to come.
Round 2: D.K. Metcalf, WR, Ole Miss
Grade: B+
The first draft pick the Hawks made that I was legitimately excited for. He's a big-bodied and strong receiver like a Terrell Owens or Josh Gordon, but has speed that beats both of them. He has the potential to be an elite #1 receiver. However, he has injury concerns (who doesn't?) and he ran slower cone drills at the combine than Tom Brady. I kid you not. So he's not an agile receiver. But if the Hawks can use him effectively and he stays healthy, he's going to be an elite receiver.
Round 3: Cody Barton, LB, Utah
Grade: B
The Hawks drafted two defensive players from Utah in their first four picks, so Blair and Barton should be able to help each other out and pull for each other in training camp. Barton will be an excellent special teamer, but could he possibly start if need be? Time will tell.
Round 4: Gary Jennings Jr., WR, West Virginia
Grade: A-
I just found out Gary Jennings Jr. has known Russell Wilson since childhood as Russ coached him at the YMCA he went to. That's awesome. Russ will instantly have a rapport with this guy. Not only that, but Gary has very few if any glaring weaknesses and has less bust potential than Metcalf. If I had to pick who has the longer and more consistent career right now (between Metcalf and Jennings), I'd say Jennings.
Round 4: Phil Haynes, G, Wake Forest
Grade: B+
Solid pick who will most likely be groomed to play guard. With Iupati and Fluker as the current starters, it works out perfectly to have Haynes sit behind them and learn and take over in case of an injury. Keep in mind we still have Roos, Simmons, and Pocic. This is the first time in a while I can say I am happy with our O-Line depth.
Round 4: Ugo Amadi, S, Oregon
Grade: C+
He's a bit undersized, but will be used on special teams and in some nickel packages. Also... he's a Duck... Nevertheless, he's a decent mid-round selection, but my gut says I don't think we'll see him on the team in 3 years.
Round 5: Ben Burr-Kirven, LB, Washington
Grade: B-
Don't think we really needed to draft two middle linebackers, but it certainly doesn't hurt. And it's a local kid from UW! I'm excited to see who will do better between Barton and Burr-Kirven, both were Pac-12 middle linebackers. Good to have depth in case something happens to Bobby *knock on wood*.
Round 6: Travis Homer, RB, Miami
Grade: B+
This kid has the fight and tenacity that Schneider and Carroll love. He's an-all around back, too, can block, catch passes, can even play special teams. I would like to see him in the preseason get a bunch of carries to see how he does there. Could be a dark horse pick that gets some carries in the regular season (Think Phillip Lindsay of Denver last year).
Round 6: DeMarcus Christmas, DT, Florida State
Grade: C+
It's Christmas in Seattle! Literally. I'm going to be honest, it could be fairly tough for him to make the roster, but with Shamar Stephen gone there's a chance. He's like Poona Ford a bit, not quite as short though. I could see him backing up Ford and Reed when they need a breather on rushing downs.
Round 7: John Ursua, WR, Hawaii
Grade: C+
Good-looking kid, but he'll find it tough making the roster, even if Doug isn't able to play. Ahead of him are Lockett, Brown, Moore, and the two other Wide Receivers we drafted in Metcalf and Jennings. If he's able to excel on special teams, he could make the roster, but as a fairly-undersized wide receiver that'll be tough to do.
Overall GPA: 2.77 (+.5) = 3.27 or B+
I gave John and Pete an extra .5 because they started with only four picks (before trading Frank Clark) and ended up with 11. Wow. Just the way they were able to trade down and not lose much value was impressive. So I give their draft a B+ as a whole. They did well for the most part, but time will tell how well they did based on the careers of these young men. Hopefully this'll be a draft class like 2011 or 2012 where we can look back on it and say they hit it out of the park.
Monday, September 19, 2016
What's wrong with the Seahawks Offense? A lot of things
The Seahawks have started the season not quite as well as we would have hoped, starting 1-1 and scoring just a combined 15 points through two games. The defense has only allowed 21 total points in two games, but that was only good enough for one win. So clearly, the problems with this team lie on the offensive side of the ball. Here's what's causing it:
- The offensive line
This might be the biggest reason. I'd say the Seahawks have perhaps two average quality starters on their line (Britt at center, Gilliam at right tackle). The rest are way below average, maybe the worst in their league at their positions. Bradley Sowell may be the worst of the bunch, drawing penalties in both games so far, allowing sacks, and not dominating ANY defensive end on a play. He was a free agent for a reason: he sucks. Glowinski, while filling in for Germain Ifedi, hasn't done that well, especially in run-blocking. Webb has gotten beat by both Dolphins and Rams nose tackles multiple times. Getting Ifedi back from injury will help, but only slightly. The Seahawks have believed the last few seasons that they can rely on offensive line coach Tom Cable to "coach them up", but if you have high school level offensive linemen in the NFL, there is only so much a single coach can do. For too long they have neglected the offensive line, leaving it devoid of talent, and it's costing them.
- The play-calling
Not a huge reason, but some of the runs and designs of the plays so far look insanely amateurish. The plays they've run look like they were designed by a first year high school coach. Bevell, the offensive coordinator, for too long has been like an anchor on the cruise ship of the offense, holding them back instead of letting them go. He was decent when the offense was focused on running the ball and had a decent offensive line that included Okung, Unger, Giacomini, and Carpenter. But with a bad offensive line, we have to adjust the offense to have more quick passes and outside runs, but Bevell has absolutely FAILED to do that. He is still running the offense and calling plays as if we still had a decent O-line and Marshawn Lynch. You give Wilson a coordinator that can utilize him effectively (I personally think Chip Kelly would be perfect), and he would put up MVP numbers.
- The lack of discipline
As my father often points out to me, the offense will almost on a routine basis put themselves in a hole to start or kill a drive by committing penalties. The biggest bugaboos have been holding and false starts. Whatever Cable is teaching our line isn't working 100% because they are still committing multiple penalties a game. In the Rams game, however, it was offensive pass interference that got them. Regardless, this team in the Pete Carroll era has consistently been undisciplined and always been towards the top of the league in penalties per game. Quite a difference from the Mike Holmgren years.
- The defense
Sometimes an offense's best source of offense is its defense. It was definitely a huge part of their scoring in 2013, the year the Hawks won the Super Bowl. So far this year the defense hasn't done their offense any favors. Sure, they're holding opponents to no more than 12 points, but they are not giving their offense good field position, whether it be with 3-and-outs or turnovers. The offense is routinely forced to drive over 80 yards to score, which would be tough to do for any offense in the NFL. The most common scenario is the defense will allow the opposition to get a few first downs, usually not enough for a touchdown, but enough to get the Hawks offense backed up in their own end of the field.
- Wilson's ankle injury
Russ's ankle injury definitely hampered him in Week 2, because the Rams obviously knew he wasn't a huge threat to run anymore. That's basically like losing a starting running back to injury. However, if you go back to before he got injured in Week 1, the offense was still having trouble, so this issue is not that big of a reason for the offense's struggles.
So the question is, how do we fix these issues? Like I said, Ifedi returning should help, but this team needs some outside help on the offensive line somehow, at least at left tackle. Bevell needs to open up the passing game and focus on screens, slants, and heck, even deep passes to get the offense going. The lack of discipline I feel will always be a problem, but the Hawks usually tone down their penalties a bit towards the second half of the season. Knowing this defense the turnovers will start coming which will immensely help the Hawks put up more points. And Russ is bound to be healthy by mid-October at the latest, meaning he should be 100% healthy for games against New England, Green Bay, and Carolina.
One last good thing: There's only one way for this offense to go and that's up. They can't possibly get any worse so long as Wilson is under center. I have confidence this offense will turn things around, and it will certainly help to not have to face a front seven as talented as Miami's or St. Louis's. But keep in mind San Francisco shut out St. Louis and the Jets front seven is definitely top 10. The offense will come around, but maybe not as fast as we'd like.
- The offensive line
This might be the biggest reason. I'd say the Seahawks have perhaps two average quality starters on their line (Britt at center, Gilliam at right tackle). The rest are way below average, maybe the worst in their league at their positions. Bradley Sowell may be the worst of the bunch, drawing penalties in both games so far, allowing sacks, and not dominating ANY defensive end on a play. He was a free agent for a reason: he sucks. Glowinski, while filling in for Germain Ifedi, hasn't done that well, especially in run-blocking. Webb has gotten beat by both Dolphins and Rams nose tackles multiple times. Getting Ifedi back from injury will help, but only slightly. The Seahawks have believed the last few seasons that they can rely on offensive line coach Tom Cable to "coach them up", but if you have high school level offensive linemen in the NFL, there is only so much a single coach can do. For too long they have neglected the offensive line, leaving it devoid of talent, and it's costing them.
- The play-calling
Not a huge reason, but some of the runs and designs of the plays so far look insanely amateurish. The plays they've run look like they were designed by a first year high school coach. Bevell, the offensive coordinator, for too long has been like an anchor on the cruise ship of the offense, holding them back instead of letting them go. He was decent when the offense was focused on running the ball and had a decent offensive line that included Okung, Unger, Giacomini, and Carpenter. But with a bad offensive line, we have to adjust the offense to have more quick passes and outside runs, but Bevell has absolutely FAILED to do that. He is still running the offense and calling plays as if we still had a decent O-line and Marshawn Lynch. You give Wilson a coordinator that can utilize him effectively (I personally think Chip Kelly would be perfect), and he would put up MVP numbers.
- The lack of discipline
As my father often points out to me, the offense will almost on a routine basis put themselves in a hole to start or kill a drive by committing penalties. The biggest bugaboos have been holding and false starts. Whatever Cable is teaching our line isn't working 100% because they are still committing multiple penalties a game. In the Rams game, however, it was offensive pass interference that got them. Regardless, this team in the Pete Carroll era has consistently been undisciplined and always been towards the top of the league in penalties per game. Quite a difference from the Mike Holmgren years.
- The defense
Sometimes an offense's best source of offense is its defense. It was definitely a huge part of their scoring in 2013, the year the Hawks won the Super Bowl. So far this year the defense hasn't done their offense any favors. Sure, they're holding opponents to no more than 12 points, but they are not giving their offense good field position, whether it be with 3-and-outs or turnovers. The offense is routinely forced to drive over 80 yards to score, which would be tough to do for any offense in the NFL. The most common scenario is the defense will allow the opposition to get a few first downs, usually not enough for a touchdown, but enough to get the Hawks offense backed up in their own end of the field.
- Wilson's ankle injury
Russ's ankle injury definitely hampered him in Week 2, because the Rams obviously knew he wasn't a huge threat to run anymore. That's basically like losing a starting running back to injury. However, if you go back to before he got injured in Week 1, the offense was still having trouble, so this issue is not that big of a reason for the offense's struggles.
So the question is, how do we fix these issues? Like I said, Ifedi returning should help, but this team needs some outside help on the offensive line somehow, at least at left tackle. Bevell needs to open up the passing game and focus on screens, slants, and heck, even deep passes to get the offense going. The lack of discipline I feel will always be a problem, but the Hawks usually tone down their penalties a bit towards the second half of the season. Knowing this defense the turnovers will start coming which will immensely help the Hawks put up more points. And Russ is bound to be healthy by mid-October at the latest, meaning he should be 100% healthy for games against New England, Green Bay, and Carolina.
One last good thing: There's only one way for this offense to go and that's up. They can't possibly get any worse so long as Wilson is under center. I have confidence this offense will turn things around, and it will certainly help to not have to face a front seven as talented as Miami's or St. Louis's. But keep in mind San Francisco shut out St. Louis and the Jets front seven is definitely top 10. The offense will come around, but maybe not as fast as we'd like.
Wednesday, April 29, 2015
Seahawks Needs at Each Position for the Draft
With the draft just a few days away, I thought it'd be fun to look at each
position for the Hawks and pick a player who might fit in well, if needed. This'll be fun to look back on to see if I
get any right and see how well I do in picking which positions are picked. The Hawks have 11 picks, so it'll be
interesting to see how they use them.
Here's what I predict:
Post Draft Review in RED.
Seahawks traded a few picks away, ended up with 8 picks instead of 11. Oh well.
Quarterback: Not a huge area of concern, but T-Jack's return being in question might make the Seahawks want to take a QB in the late rounds, if need be. They already have BJ Daniels, so perhaps they won't use a draft pick in just bring in someone as an undrafted free agent.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Sean Mannion, Oregon State (Big guy with big arm would be an interesting complement to RW. )
Mannion went to the Rams... might end up seeing him against the Hawks. But I was right in predicting the Hawks would NOT take a QB.
Running Back/Full Back: Again, not a huge area of concern, but depth COULD be added. Full back is set with both Coleman AND Tukuafu. Lynch will be back as well, and Turbin and Michael remain his understudies. I don't see a big risk on a running back, yet.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Dyer, Louisville (Off the field issues but a tank on the field)
Again correct in saying no one was taken for this position. Michael Dyer went undrafted, so he might be brought in to camp to compete for a backup RB spot.
Wide Receiver: The Hawks focused heavily on this position in last year's draft, but that doesn't mean they won't try to find a stud in this one. I think they'll pick one to add to the competition.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Vince Mayle, WSU (Going with local kid, 6'2 so decent size)
Correct in saying the Hawks would take one, wrong choice though. Tyler Lockett was the choice. Vince Mayle went to the Browns.
Tight End: This position was fortified with Jimmy Graham. Also remains Luke Willson, Cooper Helfet, and Anthony McCoy. Don't see a draft pick here.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Randall Telfer, USC (Team needs a blocking tight end, and picking one from Pete's alma matter would be appropriate)
Again correct in saying there wouldn't be a pick. Telfer went to the Browns, so unless he's cut he won't be a Hawk.
Tackle: Hawks need more help on interior of line than outside, but could use someone to give Justin Britt competition. Also wouldn't hurt to have depth in case Russell "Glass Ankles" Okung gets hurt.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Ali Marpet, Hobart (Can play center, and has good speed for an OL)
Again correct in that they'd pick one tackle, but it was Terry Poole. Marpet went to the Bucs.
Guard/Center: I group these together because a player can go back and forth between them. This is one of the biggest needs, if not the biggest need, for the Seahawks. Don't be surprised if two interior linemen are drafted.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Arie Kouandijo, Alabama and Andy Gallik, Boston College (Kouandijo is a future pro bowler IMO and Gallik is small but is gritty, smart, and well-developed.)
Technically the Hawks took two interior linemen. Glowinski will definitely play guard or center and they drafted Kristjan Sokoli, who played DT in college but the Hawks say will play guard. Well, it worked with J.R. Sweezy, so they think it'll work again.
Defensive Tackle: This position is currently held by Mebane and Williams, both can be injury prone and are aging. Their successors are needed, and I'd be shocked if the Hawks didn't draft somebody.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Bennett, Ohio State (Imagine if we had two guys named Michael Bennett on the defensive line, how confusing that'd be. Someone would have to go by Mike Bennett.)
Again, technically correct. Sokoli was a DT that they drafted, but probably won't play there. Bennett went to the Jags, unfortunately.
Defensive End: The Hawks have Bennett and Avril, but both are nearing the end of their primes. Marsh should be in the mix as well, but some depth will probably be added.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tavaris Barnes (Seattle had him for a workout and he's a rotational defensive end so he'd fit in VERY well here.)
The Hawks actually drafted TWO D-linemen, but Barnes was neither of them. The picks were Frank Clark and Obum Gwacham. The Hawks are now stacked there with depth. Barnes went undrafted and still could be brought in for training camp.
Linebacker: The Hawks starting trio is set with Wagner, Irvin, and Wright, with Pierre-Louis being a capable backup. The loss of Malcolm Smith means for sure there will be a linebacker drafted. I'll go with two, actually.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Hau'Oli Kikaha, Washington, and Lynden Trail, Norfolk State (It'd be nice to get Shaq Thompson, but Kikaha is more likely. Trail is 6'7" so he'd be nice to have to knock down passes.)
Oops. Kikaha went to the Saints, Trail went undrafted (but signed with the Texans). Hawks did not pick a single linebacker, so their depth at that position will be thin, unless Gwacham or Clark moves to OLB.
Safety: The Hawks boast the best pair of safeties in the league, but could use depth with Jeron Johnson gone. Don't expect a high pick, but expect a pick nonetheless.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tevin McDonald, Eastern Washington (Gotta pick another local kid. He could learn LOADS under Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas. Well, anyone could.)
Hawks got a safety, but again didn't pick the right one. They picked Ryan Murphy from Oregon State. McDonald went undrafted.
Cornerback: With losing Maxwell, this position will need to be addressed. Jeremy Lane won't be ready for training camp. Who is starting outside of Sherman? Simon? I'm not too impressed with Simon so far.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Alex Carter, Stanford, and Senquez Golson, Ole Miss (Imagine having two corners from Stanford starting... and Golson has excellent ball skills, something Pete covets.)
Hawks drafted just one CB (Tye Smith). I had forgotten about the signing of Cary Williams. Oops. Carter went to the Lions and Golson to the (sigh) Steelers.
Kicker/Punter: This position is set with Hauschka and Ryan. I don't see the Hawks using a pick on one, unless they can't think of anyone else to draft.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Darragh O'Neill, Colorado (College teammate of Paul Richardson)
It'd have been a shock, for sure. O'Neill went undrafted.
So there you have it. With the Hawks 11 picks, I have them taking a wide receiver, a tackle, two guards/centers, a defensive tackle, a defensive end, two linebackers, a safety, and two cornerbacks. We'll see how close I get!
Post Draft Review in RED.
Seahawks traded a few picks away, ended up with 8 picks instead of 11. Oh well.
Quarterback: Not a huge area of concern, but T-Jack's return being in question might make the Seahawks want to take a QB in the late rounds, if need be. They already have BJ Daniels, so perhaps they won't use a draft pick in just bring in someone as an undrafted free agent.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Sean Mannion, Oregon State (Big guy with big arm would be an interesting complement to RW. )
Mannion went to the Rams... might end up seeing him against the Hawks. But I was right in predicting the Hawks would NOT take a QB.
Running Back/Full Back: Again, not a huge area of concern, but depth COULD be added. Full back is set with both Coleman AND Tukuafu. Lynch will be back as well, and Turbin and Michael remain his understudies. I don't see a big risk on a running back, yet.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Dyer, Louisville (Off the field issues but a tank on the field)
Again correct in saying no one was taken for this position. Michael Dyer went undrafted, so he might be brought in to camp to compete for a backup RB spot.
Wide Receiver: The Hawks focused heavily on this position in last year's draft, but that doesn't mean they won't try to find a stud in this one. I think they'll pick one to add to the competition.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Vince Mayle, WSU (Going with local kid, 6'2 so decent size)
Correct in saying the Hawks would take one, wrong choice though. Tyler Lockett was the choice. Vince Mayle went to the Browns.
Tight End: This position was fortified with Jimmy Graham. Also remains Luke Willson, Cooper Helfet, and Anthony McCoy. Don't see a draft pick here.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Randall Telfer, USC (Team needs a blocking tight end, and picking one from Pete's alma matter would be appropriate)
Again correct in saying there wouldn't be a pick. Telfer went to the Browns, so unless he's cut he won't be a Hawk.
Tackle: Hawks need more help on interior of line than outside, but could use someone to give Justin Britt competition. Also wouldn't hurt to have depth in case Russell "Glass Ankles" Okung gets hurt.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Ali Marpet, Hobart (Can play center, and has good speed for an OL)
Again correct in that they'd pick one tackle, but it was Terry Poole. Marpet went to the Bucs.
Guard/Center: I group these together because a player can go back and forth between them. This is one of the biggest needs, if not the biggest need, for the Seahawks. Don't be surprised if two interior linemen are drafted.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Arie Kouandijo, Alabama and Andy Gallik, Boston College (Kouandijo is a future pro bowler IMO and Gallik is small but is gritty, smart, and well-developed.)
Technically the Hawks took two interior linemen. Glowinski will definitely play guard or center and they drafted Kristjan Sokoli, who played DT in college but the Hawks say will play guard. Well, it worked with J.R. Sweezy, so they think it'll work again.
Defensive Tackle: This position is currently held by Mebane and Williams, both can be injury prone and are aging. Their successors are needed, and I'd be shocked if the Hawks didn't draft somebody.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Michael Bennett, Ohio State (Imagine if we had two guys named Michael Bennett on the defensive line, how confusing that'd be. Someone would have to go by Mike Bennett.)
Again, technically correct. Sokoli was a DT that they drafted, but probably won't play there. Bennett went to the Jags, unfortunately.
Defensive End: The Hawks have Bennett and Avril, but both are nearing the end of their primes. Marsh should be in the mix as well, but some depth will probably be added.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tavaris Barnes (Seattle had him for a workout and he's a rotational defensive end so he'd fit in VERY well here.)
The Hawks actually drafted TWO D-linemen, but Barnes was neither of them. The picks were Frank Clark and Obum Gwacham. The Hawks are now stacked there with depth. Barnes went undrafted and still could be brought in for training camp.
Linebacker: The Hawks starting trio is set with Wagner, Irvin, and Wright, with Pierre-Louis being a capable backup. The loss of Malcolm Smith means for sure there will be a linebacker drafted. I'll go with two, actually.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Hau'Oli Kikaha, Washington, and Lynden Trail, Norfolk State (It'd be nice to get Shaq Thompson, but Kikaha is more likely. Trail is 6'7" so he'd be nice to have to knock down passes.)
Oops. Kikaha went to the Saints, Trail went undrafted (but signed with the Texans). Hawks did not pick a single linebacker, so their depth at that position will be thin, unless Gwacham or Clark moves to OLB.
Safety: The Hawks boast the best pair of safeties in the league, but could use depth with Jeron Johnson gone. Don't expect a high pick, but expect a pick nonetheless.
Will they draft for this position: Yes
If they were to, who would they pick: Tevin McDonald, Eastern Washington (Gotta pick another local kid. He could learn LOADS under Kam Chancellor and Earl Thomas. Well, anyone could.)
Hawks got a safety, but again didn't pick the right one. They picked Ryan Murphy from Oregon State. McDonald went undrafted.
Cornerback: With losing Maxwell, this position will need to be addressed. Jeremy Lane won't be ready for training camp. Who is starting outside of Sherman? Simon? I'm not too impressed with Simon so far.
Will they draft for this position: Yes, two players
If they were to, who would they pick: Alex Carter, Stanford, and Senquez Golson, Ole Miss (Imagine having two corners from Stanford starting... and Golson has excellent ball skills, something Pete covets.)
Hawks drafted just one CB (Tye Smith). I had forgotten about the signing of Cary Williams. Oops. Carter went to the Lions and Golson to the (sigh) Steelers.
Kicker/Punter: This position is set with Hauschka and Ryan. I don't see the Hawks using a pick on one, unless they can't think of anyone else to draft.
Will they draft for this position: No
If they were to, who would they pick: Darragh O'Neill, Colorado (College teammate of Paul Richardson)
It'd have been a shock, for sure. O'Neill went undrafted.
So there you have it. With the Hawks 11 picks, I have them taking a wide receiver, a tackle, two guards/centers, a defensive tackle, a defensive end, two linebackers, a safety, and two cornerbacks. We'll see how close I get!
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