Matchup: Seahawks vs Broncos

[#37]

Curious to hear your opinions on what will be the deciding factors of this game... Stat charts - http://www.sportingcharts.com/nfl/teams ... -seahawks/

[Long Time Fan]

I'd like to see a little more creativity in our pass rush.

[c_hawkbob]

Same deciding factors as the super bowl: the Legion vs Manning, getting pressure with our front four and the 12th man.

The legion is smarting after getting burnt again't the Chargers, how they respond will be the most interesting thing to watch IMO. I think they'll come out smokin'.

[c_hawkbob]

I'd like to see a little more creativity in our pass rush.

Blitzing Peyton Manning has been the ruin of many a defensive game plan.

[Anthony]

The defense playing the way they can
The o-line pass blocking
reducing dumb penalties
reduce Wr drops
win the TO battle

Pretty simple all the things we normally do but did not against SD

[Hawktawk]

Seattle got quite a bit of pressure on Rivers. He is just one of the best at climbing the pocket and getting the pass away. He made an amazing play hanging on to the ball when Bennett got a full swing at it.

I was uneasy about this first 3 game stretch when I saw the schedule featuring 3 excellent passing teams who made the playoffs that Seattle doesn't have a lot of familiarity with.I felt we might be anywhere between 3-0 and 1-2.

Now we see Denver, the most fascinating match-up of the bunch. One would think they would come in here looking for blood but I felt that way about Green Bay and we saw what happened.
I think our D is going to be ready. I think we live rent free in Mannings head. Hes a playoff choker and this is a game with a playoff type of atmosphere. We wont be hearing any "Omaha" that's for sure.


Seattle wins this game 31-21. Manning 2 picks and a strip sack.

[burrrton]

Seattle got quite a bit of pressure on Rivers. He is just one of the best at climbing the pocket and getting the pass away. He made an amazing play hanging on to the ball when Bennett got a full swing at it.

Yeah, that was a good (I think lucky) play to hang onto that, but we really didn't get that much pressure on Rivers. He had to scramble once or twice, and there was occasional pressure, but he stood there like the proverbial statue most of the time.

If we let Manning do that, we're going to be 1-2 (much to the delight of the rest of the NFL).

[Hawktawk]

Man i just didn't see the game the same way ,not too many plays where he was a statue from my viewpoint on the couch. Rivers was sliding and moving in the pocket and was harassed most of the game.Seattle missed him by a whisker on a couple of those TDs to Gates. But that's the NFL, a millisecond being the difference. It was in the super bowl too.


I really cant see Seattle playing that bad 2 weeks in a row and I think Rivers is a tougher QB for the legion than Manning at this stage of their careers. He just doesn't have the velocity and accuracy he had in his prime and he doesn't like getting hit.
But there's blood in the water right now. I'm apprehensive.

[RiverDog]

I don't think Manning has ever played a meaningful game in our house. He came here with the Colts in 2005 but it was late in the season and the Colts had already wrapped up HFA. I know he's played in front of a lot of hostile crowds in his long career, but I'll bet it's been a long time since he's faced what he's going to face this Sunday.

We need to get pressure rushing 4. Peyton Manning knows the game better than any single individual on the planet and will find the weak spots in a defense. We need to keep him off balance, just like we did in the SB. Keep him throwing from his heels instead of stepping into his throws.

[burrrton]

Man i just didn't see the game the same way ,not too many plays where he was a statue from my viewpoint on the couch.

Eh, I'll go back and review (it's been long enough that I can stand to now). Maybe he was just more adept moving within the pocket than he usually is.

[#37]

Man there is a lot of good stuff from you all...

IMO... Our defense needs to stay on their toes, and move quicker than they did against SD. Not having to play in that scorching heat, here at home, I feel confident they will be fast.

We need to force the turnovers in our favor. Punch the ball out, and get those interceptions. If we put lots of pressure on Manning, these plays will be there for us.

There is a chance Wes Welker will be in the game. He is a team motivating player for the Broncos. Kam Chancellor, and anyone else who can, needs to hit Welker hard in the midfield and take the spark out of him.

Our "O" line has to protect Russell Wilson better, and give him a bit more time for the pass plays.

When under pressure with no one open, Russell needs to run that ball forward not back. Throwing it away can be the smart move, but so can the gain in yardage.

We need to feed the Beast. If Marshawn needs some rest, give them some Turbin...

We have so much talent, and need to utilize our depth like we have so well in the past. Keep them Boncos guessing, and frustrated.

[mykc14]

Man i just didn't see the game the same way ,not too many plays where he was a statue from my viewpoint on the couch. Rivers was sliding and moving in the pocket and was harassed most of the game.Seattle missed him by a whisker on a couple of those TDs to Gates. But that's the NFL, a millisecond being the difference. It was in the super bowl too.


I really cant see Seattle playing that bad 2 weeks in a row and I think Rivers is a tougher QB for the legion than Manning at this stage of their careers. He just doesn't have the velocity and accuracy he had in his prime and he doesn't like getting hit.
But there's blood in the water right now. I'm apprehensive.

I agree with this post, on the plays he wasn't getting the ball out lightning quick he had a decent amount of pressure. He has always been good at climbing the pocket and he was exceptional at it on Sunday. On two of his TD passes he was surrounded in the pocket, on one we got a hand on the ball and on the other he climbed the pocket and made a jump throw to Gates.

[HumanCockroach]

I keep seeing this "pressure" for Wilson, anyone got the stats on that? I know late in the game there was Seven total pressures with two sacks. Not sure what people are expecting, but to me, that doesn't seem like some insane amount of pressure, in fact it strikes me as a "decent" job ( not good, but certainly not horrible, about average is where I would place that)Rivers at the time had more pressure and sacks, and yet found a way to throw the ball.

Wilson last season until late, and so far this season, hasn't really kept the ball to make the defense respect that he will. I thought it was a mistake last year, and I feel it is one this season to this point. Why the Seahawks decided not to give SD a heavy dose of what they used to dismantle them in the pre season ( run, run,run and then run some more) I haven't a clue, I grasp the heat, but those runs could have been dispersed amongst Lynch, Turbin, Harvin, Wilson, and hell Coleman if they so chose, and yet Lynch had six carries for the game, SIX . Carroll said that "is just how the game unfolded" but personally I just don't buy it. No way was there no chance to run the ball more than the Hawks did. If nothing else, it would have at the very least, worn down the D-line and LB'rs from SD. I was really dissapointed in the game plan in this instance, and felt like for whatever reason, the did not adjust to a more time consuming, energy saving , game plan ( hell even if just for a couple drives after the first long SD drive)

[RiverDog]

Wilson last season until late, and so far this season, hasn't really kept the ball to make the defense respect that he will. I thought it was a mistake last year, and I feel it is one this season to this point. Why the Seahawks decided not to give SD a heavy dose of what they used to dismantle them in the pre season ( run, run,run and then run some more) I haven't a clue, I grasp the heat, but those runs could have been dispersed amongst Lynch, Turbin, Harvin, Wilson, and hell Coleman if they so chose, and yet Lynch had six carries for the game, SIX . Carroll said that "is just how the game unfolded" but personally I just don't buy it. No way was there no chance to run the ball more than the Hawks did. If nothing else, it would have at the very least, worn down the D-line and LB'rs from SD. I was really dissapointed in the game plan in this instance, and felt like for whatever reason, the did not adjust to a more time consuming, energy saving , game plan ( hell even if just for a couple drives after the first long SD drive)

That's a good point. There have been times that Russell hasn't kept it on the read when there was tons of space available, although I didn't see a lot of missed opportunities last Sunday by him not keeping it on the read option. He did seem to be running more in the preseason and seems to be keeping the ball more in a scramble situation, the run that left him a couple yards short in the 4th quarter last week being one example, so I would expect to see him doing it more when he has the chance.

We didn't really have much of an opportunity to establish the run last Sunday. You can't establish much of anything if the other team doesn't punt the ball until the 4th quarter. The offense commits one penalty, one dropped pass, one mistake and we have to give up the ball and we don't see it again for half a quarter.

[Long Time Fan]

Blitzing Peyton Manning has been the ruin of many a defensive game plan.

You are no doubt correct. In the second half of the SD game, the Seahawks ran some outside in stunts to rush Rivers. There has been some debate here about how effective the pass rush was in that game. The "L" tells me that it was not as effective as was needed. I agree with you that as a team that rarely blitzes that doing so against Manning of all qbs could be disastrous. I would however like to see more inside pressure, if that means more stunts with the DE coming from one end back into the line, fine. Too often our rushing ends are blocked into the deep pocket allowing qbs to set up into empty space in the pocket. Pressure up the middle would be effective (Please don't open this to a discussion of personnel no longer on the roster).

[Hawktawk]

I thought the defensive failures had more to do with the back end than the front end. Cramps, heat, conditioning , game plan, whatever the legion was bust for a rare occasion.

Eric Weddle said after the game that SD had a game plan for Russ to keep him in the pocket, rush the right way under control, and have a spy on him. They played it to perfection and I thought Russ did pretty well considering the situation.Really the Hawks interior line was abysmal, surrendering several jailbreaks. The first was the worst taking Seattle out of field goal range to nearly the 50 yard line after a crisp drive to that point. It was huge momentum swing in the game. And can i get a witness, that's the worst Ive ever seen Zach Miller play, especially blocking.Stats are deceiving, it isn't necessarily how many pressures or sacks, its when they happen in the game. Lots to clean up by Sunday. I'm sure they are working it out....

[burrrton]

I haven't reviewed, but did anyone else think Okung played pretty badly, too?

[Anthony]

I haven't reviewed, but did anyone else think Okung played pretty badly, too?

Yes he did.

[#37]

Wes Welker is back. http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11544 ... cited-back

[c_hawkbob]

Can't have Wes Freakin Welker on the sidelines for Peyton's big redemption rematch!

Actually though, I do like the new policy.

[THX-1138]

My take:

Make the statue move. Make him have to hurry. Seemed to work in the SB. Kam needs to play smarter. He was out of control a bit for the GB game and sorta lethargic for the SD game (I'll bet that was due to the ridiculous heat). I also think that when the Hawks defense get's an opportunity to 'lay the wood' to somebody, they need to STAY ON THEIR FEET! Too many guys appeared to be lunging at tackles. I'm no defensive genius so I just say that they should do what they do.

On offense I know that Carroll said that we never had a chance to work our game plan but my eyes told me that they were trying to get cute with the play calling and much of it backfired. And contrary to what I read on other boards about Beast's back problems not being an issue in the last game, I think it was and that's why we saw him in limited use. Turbin is a strong back but he isn't Beast. And Lockette isn't Harvin. Don't use him in the fly sweep. Miller's play dropped off from his 'out of his mind' performance against GB. RW didn't get much help from the O line but I optimistically blame that on poor hydration regimen for playing inside an oven. Even in limited action those big uglies probably fell to pieces.

Geez, that wasn't a matchup post at all. I suck at this.

[Anthony]

My take:

Make the statue move. Make him have to hurry. Seemed to work in the SB. Kam needs to play smarter. He was out of control a bit for the GB game and sorta lethargic for the SD game (I'll bet that was due to the ridiculous heat). I also think that when the Hawks defense get's an opportunity to 'lay the wood' to somebody, they need to STAY ON THEIR FEET! Too many guys appeared to be lunging at tackles. I'm no defensive genius so I just say that they should do what they do.

On offense I know that Carroll said that we never had a chance to work our game plan but my eyes told me that they were trying to get cute with the play calling and much of it backfired. And contrary to what I read on other boards about Beast's back problems not being an issue in the last game, I think it was and that's why we saw him in limited use. Turbin is a strong back but he isn't Beast. And Lockette isn't Harvin. Don't use him in the fly sweep. Miller's play dropped off from his 'out of his mind' performance against GB. RW didn't get much help from the O line but I optimistically blame that on poor hydration regimen for playing inside an oven. Even in limited action those big uglies probably fell to pieces.

Geez, that wasn't a matchup post at all. I suck at this.

All great points I also think when we had the chance at the end of the game they took the ball out of Rws hand ie the jet sweep deep in our endzone. Now its 2nd a and long and SD can pin their ears back, and with the way our o-line was not blocking that was bad. Then the drive before that a drop, and bad penalty etc

[burrrton]

The more I reflect on and analyze the SD game, the more optimistic I get about DEN (while still remaining typically reticent):

1. The heat *had* to have had some effect- I'm moderately acclimated to the heat (I can jog in 95 deg heat) and I'm absolutely wiped doing nothing but watching boat races in 115F heat.

2. We played uncharacteristically sloppy, with bad penalties, whiffing on blocks, missing tackles, etc.

3. At least one of Rivers' TD throws was one I think it's safe to say no one else will be able to complete given 100 tries, nor do I think *he'd* complete it again in 100 tries (the heave that hit double-covered Gates at the end zone sideline).

I think all those things added up to a very uncharacteristic day for this team. We'll see Sunday, I guess.

[#37]

http://ironrank.com/football/Seattle-Se ... er-Broncos

ESPN First Take. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KIgvHZZ ... hc0qvr4KnA

The NFL Live crew make their picks for Denver at Seattle. http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=11549034

ESPN NFL Insider Mike Sando delivers stats to help you make a pick for Denver at Seattle. http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=11548190

[#37]

NFL Films Preview: Seahawks vs Denver Broncos - http://www.seahawks.com/videos-photos/v ... 5769734ff0

[burrrton]

Jeezus- Sunday can't get here fast enough.

[RiverDog]

I haven't reviewed, but did anyone else think Okung played pretty badly, too?

Pass blocking, yes, he struggled. He's not playing like a Pro Bowl LT, and hasn't for some time.

[#37]

Awesome interview with Earl Thomas, Week 3 Press Conference: http://www.seahawks.com/videos-photos/v ... 7c71119518

[Long Time Fan]

Should be a great game. We will know a great deal more about our team by game's end. I expect great improvement, but I must admit that I am not expecting a win. In an understated case, I see the Seahawks as a team in a mini-transition. I would like to see more of the old run heavy offense, but I sense that the offense is being placed more into RW's capable hands. It may take a while to to sort out the balance between run, read option, sweep, bubble screen, and passing game. I love our team going forward, but the 2014 version of the offense is yet unsettled. Have a great weekend boyz; it should be fun game to watch with lots of discussion to follow. Go Hawks!

[#37]

A lot of people have been saying this isn't a must win game. Sure, this is true in the big picture. However, this game is the Super Bowl rematch! Go Hawks! From the frying pan of Qualcomm Stadium to the fire of CenturyLink Field...

[Hawk Sista]

It's a rematch in the sense that team A plays team B & the fans and media will paint the game that way. Should we lose, we'll fall another 7 spots in power rankings and it'll be a shallow look at it all. It's how we finish, not just this 3rd regular season game against the AFC.... But in December and January that matters most. My point is it'll be billed as an SB rematch, but c'mon.

What sista sees that has not been addressed (@ least that I saw):

1. Von Miller & Demarcus Ware on the edges is somethin' we did not see in 48. Our line is an evolution w/ rookies and by seasons end, barring injuries, will be better suited to handle the pressure surely coming RWs way.

2. As good as our D was in 48, theirs was equally bad. The Kearse TD was a highlight reel of how not to tackle. Champ was old, key players out, etc. their D is not super super special so far, but they are not the crappy squad that took the field in February... Hear this.

3. Cliff, IMO, was at least tied w/ Smith for SB MVP. The pressure, tips he provided led to two of the INTs. I realize Clady is back and their fill in LT is now a very solid RT. Continual pocket disruption will be tough to replicate.

4. Talib (beeyotch that he is) and Ward add weapons to their 2ndary. If our WRs can get separation & RW has a lil time, it'll be ok. Look for the Blue Angel package....our three fastest (Harvin, Locket and Paul) to blaze.

5. If they bring the heat on RW too much, it could be the hill they die on.

6. I'm worried about Beast Mode. Turbo is good, but not 1/2 the back. Sorry - just sayin'. We need more carries- period ( I know, duh

I think if we can get off the field 35% of defensive 3rd downs and increase that # by 10-15% headed the other way (& at least tie in the turn-over battle) WE WIN 31-23.

[wait_a_sec]

I would think every member of the Hawks from top to bottom are ready for this game. Especially with the bye coming up right after. I'm sure Pete has already prefaced how that break will go. Want to enjoy a little time off? Win this game.

[Hawk Sista]

& I'm sure you are right.

[Futureite]

Hope I am wrong, but I am going 20-16 Hawks. I think Denver matches up Sanders on Sherman and tries to work Julius Thomas in the seam. Try to pound Monte' Ball. Same gameplan that SD used.

I'd love to see that Duuuche bag (and others) eat their words after calling out the Broncos as scared, having figured Manning's hand signals out, and the 90 out 100 comnent, but I don't think it will happen. Denver has tried to toughen up via FA, but Hawks didn't become physical with great D overnight. They are still a tougher and more physical team than Denver top to bottom. They know how to play that way for 4 qtrs, and they will pull away in the 4th.

Still calling it close. Or maybe a late Denver score makes it look closer than it was:

Seattle 20 Denver 16

[burrrton]

Tomorrow feels like a bit of a tipping point, even if just psychologically:

If we lose, we're 1-2, tied for last place in the division, having just lost to *two* AFC playoff teams, and the angst will get turned to 11 and the mocking will commence for not one but two weeks. It will take more than a win or two to wash the taste out.

If we win, the SD loss becomes a footnote and the 'bye' week (in quotes because it comes so early it almost defeats the purpose of having it) is 14 days for us to talk about how losing to SD in such surprising fashion was just a nightmare to be forgotten and our preseason expectations are still on track.

We'll see.

[RiverDog]

Tomorrow feels like a bit of a tipping point, even if just psychologically:

If we lose, we're 1-2, tied for last place in the division, having just lost to *two* AFC playoff teams, and the angst will get turned to 11 and the mocking will commence for not one but two weeks. It will take more than a win or two to wash the taste out.

If we win, the SD loss becomes a footnote and the 'bye' week (in quotes because it comes so early it almost defeats the purpose of having it) is 14 days for us to talk about how losing to SD in such surprising fashion was just a nightmare to be forgotten and our preseason expectations are still on track.

We'll see.

Tipping point? I guess it would depend on how we lost, if we do lose. If our defense gives up 30 again, doesn't force Denver to punt until the 4th quarter like what happened in San Diego, then I'll get worried.

Sometimes it helps to put things in perspective. San Francisco is at more of a tipping point than we are after losing at home to a conference opponent that did not qualify for the playoffs. Now they go on the road to play division rival Arizona, the only 2-0 team in our division. They lose to them and their division record will be 0-1,their conference record 1-2, and they still won't have played a playoff team. Denver will be our 3rd playoff team in a row. IMO there's more pressure on them to win than there is on us.

[Stream Hawk]

Nope. Not going to lose to the Broncos. Recall that many were concerned before the Super Bowl that facing an offensive juggernaut like Denver would be tough for the LOB, but clearly defense wins. Our defense is mad, determined – and very prepared. I'm hoping the oline can fix some pass protections, but I believe we'll be okay.

As I posted Sunday evening following the loss to the Chargers, ET and Russell have been watching film all week adjusting to and fixing their mistakes.

Look out Denver and nation - the Seahawks are baaaacck!!!!!