In the penultimate stretch of the regular NFL season, the Seattle Seahawks find themselves lodged in the middle or lower echelons of defensive rankings, hardly reminiscent of the glory days of the famed Legion of Boom. With statistics placing them at 26th in total yards allowed (358.6 per game), 23rd in points allowed (23.5 per game), 19th in pass defense (allowing 229 yards per game), and a lowly 27th in rushing defense (allowing 129.6 yards per game), the Seahawks’ overall defensive performance appears lackluster.
Despite these less-than-stellar figures, there is a shining exception—the Seahawks’ pass rush has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Head coach Pete Carroll took the opportunity to commend this unit during the Pete Carroll Show on Seattle Sports, highlighting their remarkable achievement of being tied with the San Francisco 49ers for the lead in the NFC with an impressive 45 sacks. This places them in the sixth position overall in the entire NFL.
Carroll’s defensive strategy has never heavily relied on blitzing, and this season is no exception. However, the Seahawks have managed to apply consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, a departure from previous years. In a notable feat earlier in the season, they even tied a franchise record with 11 sacks in a resounding victory over the New York Giants.
The recent 20-17 triumph over the Tennessee Titans saw the Seahawks record six sacks, two of which were crucial in sealing the victory during the final drive. Boye Mafe led the charge with two sacks against the Titans, bringing his season total to nine—a noteworthy contribution to the team’s overall success.
Carroll acknowledged the strategic use of defensive lineman Dre’Mont Jones, particularly his dual role on the interior and edge. This deployment, following the midseason acquisition of Leonard Williams, has proven beneficial for Jones, who managed a sack and tackle for loss in the game against the Titans. Carroll emphasized the flexibility and adaptability that Jones has shown, drawing parallels to former Seahawks star Michael Bennett, a versatile defensive lineman known for wreaking havoc both inside and outside.
The Seahawks’ ability to adapt and optimize their defensive lineup has been a key factor in their success, with Carroll expressing satisfaction in Jones’ performance over the past several weeks. He lauded Jones for his consistent effort, likening him to Bennett not just in versatility but also in natural athletic ability and agility on the field.
In an unexpected turn, Carroll drew upon the wisdom of legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden when discussing in-season competition for starting spots. Reflecting on his decision to bench cornerback Riq Woolen in a recent game, Carroll cited Wooden’s belief that the bench is a coach’s best friend. He emphasized the competitive element introduced by players vying for starting positions, suggesting that the availability of strong substitutes can enhance overall team performance. Carroll’s decision to bench Woolen proved pivotal, as the cornerback made a game-clinching tackle in the subsequent game against the Titans.
As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the Seahawks may not be dominating across all defensive categories, but their prowess in the pass rush has emerged as a beacon of success. With Carroll’s strategic acumen and the team’s adaptability, the Seahawks are poised to make a statement as they head into the crucial remaining games.
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