Thoughts on an Up and Down Game Against the Packers
By author
Welcome to the NFL Gentlemen.
This year’s draft class was supposed to be one of the best in club history, however, Saturday’s game was evidence of just how hard the jump from college to the NFL can be. During the first play of the game, Russell Okung simply fell down missing his block. On the second play of the game he did the same thing again. And on the third play he twisted his multi-million dollar ankle which will result in him missing the next 2-4 weeks. On the fourth play the Seahawks punted: Three and out.
On Greenbay’s first offensive play of the game, Earl Thomas got burned so bad by Greg Jennings, he looked like a hot dog somebody left on the barbecue. Not quite sure if he was supposed to get help from the corner, however, the next closest man was Kelly Jennings who got the start over Josh Wilson. Did I miss that meeting? I thought Jennings was the nickel corner. Kelly Jennings later found himself matched up against J. Finley which is an obvious mismatch. Jennings is a mere 5‘10“ while Finley measures 6‘5“. Jennings looked lucky just to make the tackle against the larger and far more powerful wide receiver. This game could not have looked any worse during the first two possessions.
Did anybody see Golden Tate? He had a measly reception for 8 yards as he was delegated to second half duties. Isn’t that where the backups are supposed to play?
Welcome Back leaders.
Matt Hasselbeck finished 11-15 with 127 yds 1 td, and 0 int. His touchdown pass was a savvy veteran play in which he instructed Deon Branch to change directions in the back of the endzone then, throwing on his heels, delivered an extremely accurate pass right on the money. The result was a much needed 6 points for the first string offense. I believe, if given the time, Hassellbeck can return to his Pro Bowl form, but with no protection due to inconsistency and a lack of experience, he could end up having another bad season.
I also loved the play of Marcus Trufant who broke up a sure reception and had some great tackles. I sure hope he can get back to his Pro Bowl form. He is a fan and locker room favorite. I have never heard a bad thing about him as a person. Shaun Alexander pretended or at least tried to be a sincere guy who cared for the city, but did anyone really believe it? Trufant is that guy. A local sports sensation who has never left the state. I really hope he can break out this season. I want him to be one of my favorite Hawks of all time, but he’s just not there yet. He’s on the cusp of what could be come a storied career worthy of of classic jerseys, Ring of Honor induction, and multiple Pro Bowls to come. Or he could end up hosting a local sports show with Brock Huard.
Washington had a great touchdown run when he exploded through the line showing that burst of speed many fans had been crossing their fingers for. And was that actually Chris Spencer providing a lane for him to run through? Rumble young man rumble.
Surprise Standout
Mike Williams continues to impress with his promising play and rediscovered athletic ability. In two games, he has had some great plays including that incredible touchdown in the first week of preseason.
Don’t Freak Out People.
If you were one of the many calling for Hassellbeck’s job based on Whitehurst’s performance last week, I hope you learned your lesson. He looked terrible last Saturday. His accuracy was nothing like it was in the first week as he looked like a totally different player. Don’t lose hope. This doesn’t mean anymore than last week did. He just needs more time and reps before he can truly be evaluated.
All in all, I am still nervous going into the season. Our pass rush does not look any better at all, and our offensive line is just as shaky as last year. There is no way we can think we’re better based on the last two games, however, new systems take time, and there is plenty to improve on throughout the year. I think this team needs a spark more than anything to really get rolling, but where that spark will come from or who will provide it is my biggest concern right now. Anybody got a light?