Not that he was looking for a different outcome. It was about getting a different perspective. After reviewing game film from Sunday’s 34-37 OT loss to the Arizona Cardinals Seahawk head coach found neither. The film session reaffirmed what Carroll knew after the team’s disappointing loss. A lack of execution in the clutch moments enable the Cardinals to knock the Seahawks from the ranks of undefeated NFL teams.
A veteran team like the Seahawks making critical mistakes down the stretch was surprising and disappointing for Carroll and the rest of the coaching staff.
“There were a couple of critical penalties that changed the game. That was a factor when we had our chance to finish. It allows us to hammer home how important it is to do things right – especially down the stretch. That’s what it takes to be a good finishing team.”
RUNNING BACKS UNIT DECIMATED
While the sky is not falling there are definitely dark clouds around the Seahawks team. The loss to a division rival is now compounded with the news that the Seahawks running backs unit is gashed with injuries. The most serious of the injuries is with starter Chris Carson who suffered a mid-foot sprain and finished the game with 34 yards on five carries.
Carlos Hyde looked like a safe insurance policy finishing the game with 68 yards on 15 carries. Carroll revealed on Monday that Hyde is dealing with a “ hammy issue”. The news went from bad to worse when Carroll announced that Travis Homer has a banged knee.
DIFFICULT TO MOVE FOR REINFORCEMENTS
Because of the COvid-19 Pandemic, the NFL increased the size of each team’ss practice squad roster. Practice squad players are allowed two call ups to the regular roster before they must be permanently signed to the regular roster. An example of such a move was Shaquem Griffin. Even with the added roster flexibility, Carroll downplayed the notion that the Seahawks could quickly bring in a running back for reinforcement.
“ We will try to get those guys cleared to play and if not we look at creative ways to get in done in house.”
Carroll was asked if Rashaad Penny is an option. Penny started the season on injured reserve after suffering a knee injury in Week 14 against the Rams last year.
DEFENSE IN NEED OF IDENTITY
While the offense had its share of mistakes Sunday’s loss exposed the Seahawk’s inability to get off the field when it matters. The Seahawk’s third-down defense is no. 25 and dead last in yards allowed. Carroll admitted the team’s inability to produce pressure on the quarterback from all positions was a major stumbling block for the defense. The team leader in sacks is a two-way tie between DL Benson Mayoma and SS Jamal Adams who has missed the last three games due to a groin injury.
Carroll was noncommittal when asked if Adams will be ready for Sunday’s game. One player who returned from injury and played well was rookie Jordyn Brooks. The rookie linebacker returned to the lineup Sunday after missing the last two games due to a knee injury.
BIG TAKE AWAY
The Seahawks offensive mistakes can be quickly fixed with more film study which will lead to better execution. Quarterback Russell Wilson was adamant that he is looking to the challenge after Sunday’s game. Defensive captain Bobby Wagner said it was time for the defense to make plays. Injuries have caused a lack of continuity on defense. A healthy Adams and Shaquille Griffin who suffered a concussion in Sundays game can be a difference-makers on defense,
Discover more from Cascadiasports.net
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
