Make it 3-0
Oh boy, what a game. I don’t care about the preseason talk; anytime the Seahawks put up 44 points I’m going to be a happy camper. Add in the Chiefs and Arrowhead Stadium, it’s spectacular.
A huge thanks to the Seahawks for putting up a touchdown in all phases of the game, making my job to award game balls a lot of fun. Great game, ‘Hawks.
Offensive Game Ball
Robert Turbin was awarded last week’s game ball, after putting on a great show in Denver. His numbers didn’t jump out at you, but he looked solid and his understanding of a new running scheme was excellent.
He had an encore of all encores’ this evening, putting up 93 yards on 14 carries, including a 25 yard touchdown scamper (aided by an excellent block by Paul McQuistan).
The roles are reversed for this week’s game ball though, as Turbin is overshadowed by another rookie.
I would be crazy to not give Russell Wilson the offensive game ball. After Matt Flynn was inactive because of a sore shoulder, Wilson knew he would be carrying the offense for longer than a half, and he gladly accepted that challenge.
180 yards and two touchdowns later, Russell Wilson had Flynn nervous and the 12th Man on the edge of their seats (hypothetically of course, because the 12th Man never sits down). Add on runs of 31 and 27 to Wilson’s final stat line, and you have a starting quarterback.
Anthony McCoy also impressed me in the passing game, catching two balls for 47 yards. His hands have always been a concern, but if he can become more consistent catching, then he’ll be a reliable backup to Zach Miller.
Defensive Game Ball
Heath Farwell continues an excellent preseason on defense, picking up 5 tackles tonight. With the departure of Barrett Ruud, it’s Farwell alone backing up rookie Bobby Wagner. He looks to be dependable, which is exciting.
Earl Thomas stepped in front of a Matt Cassel pass and took it 75 yards the other way for a touchdown late in the third quarter. With all the hype around Kam Chancellor these days, Thomas just told us to not forget him.
Don’t worry Earl, we aren’t anytime soon. I’m certain E.T. will have more than one game ball when the games begin to count, so this game ball goes to a different ‘Hawk.
I would be crazy to not give Russell Wilson the offensive game ball.
With the exception of a weak (albeit right) pass interference call, linebacker Mike Morgan played an outstanding game. He did a great job picking up a sack on an early drive after Chris Clemons slowed him down.
On a suddenly shallow linebacker core, Morgan has really stood out to me as a viable backup. Keep it up, Mike!
Special Teams Game Ball
What an improved performance by the Special Teams unit as a whole. No fumbles, only punted ONCE the whole game (credited to the offense rather than special teams) and a missed field goal from 51 yards out. All in all good job.
Jon Ryan punted once for 62 yards, which is good to see his leg hasn’t been diminished at all this off season. Oh yeah, and he got that punt off! Not blocked, hardly even any pressure.
Steven Hauschka was 3/4 on the evening, with a long of 45. He looks like the same reliable, strong-legged kicker from last season.
Elsewhere, Olindo Mare is in a kicker competition and might not make the team, same goes for Josh Brown. Moral of the story? You’re a kicker, don’t get greedy.
Special Teams game ball goes to Golden Tate who returned a punt 92 yards for a touchdown, and came agonizingly close to the punter on the return, as if to tease him. Great job, Golden.
Seahawks preseason action wraps up next Thursday, with the annual preseason duel against the Oakland Raiders.
STATS
- R. Wilson – 13/19 185 YDS 2 TD 58 YDS Rushing
- R. Turbin - 14 carries 93 YDS 1 TD
- A. McCoy - 2 receptions 47 YDS
- T. Owens - 2 receptions 41 YDS
- C. Martin - 2 reception 15 YDS 1 TD
- B. Edwards - 1 reception 32 YDS
- K. Winslow - 2 receptions 23 YDS 1 TD
Adams, Farwell, Wright all with 5 tackles to lead the team on defense.
CLICK HERE CHECK OUT THE SEAHAWKS BLOG IN OUR CLUBHOUSE AT NWSB!