Richard Sherman: INTs and Close Calls in 2015
Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman only had two interceptions in 2015, but don’t let that make you think he had a poor season.
If you’re just looking at the statistics from his past season, one might surmise that Richard Sherman had a below average year, for his standards. Sherman recorded just two takeaways this past season after recording at least 5 or more in the past 4 seasons he’s been in the NFL.
Despite the decrease in takeaways, Sherman added a new dimension to his game this year, covering the opposing team’s #1 WR numerous this season when called upon. This was partly in response to the decline in the team’s CB depth this season, and possibly a new wrinkle that now second year defensive coordinator Kris Richard chose to implement.
Sherman had many interceptions go through his hands last season, something I’m sure he’ll hope to rectify. Sherman maintained a stellar level of play this year and will look to build upon that this upcoming season. Regardless of his perceived struggles this season,
Sherman is still considered one of the best young CB’s in the NFL. Additionally, Sherman should benefit from increased CB depth across the board this upcoming season.
The following is a breakdown of his two interceptions from this previous season.
4th Quarter – (14:18) B. Roethlisberger pass deep left intended for A. Brown INTERCEPTED by R. Sherman at SEA 35. R. Sherman to PIT 39 for 26 yards (A. Brown).
The Seahawks appear to be in Cover 1 man coverage, wth Kam Chancellor playing in the box to prevent against the run from what looks like a heavy formation by the Steelers. Roethlisberger fakes PA and looks immediately towards his favorite receiver. Brown trips over his own feet which results in an easy interception for Sherman, his first of the year.
4th Quarter – (11:23) (Shotgun) J. Clausen pass short right intended for C. Matthews INTERCEPTED by R. Sherman at BLT 42. R. Sherman to BLT 38 for 4 yards (C. Matthews).
The Ravens come out with 4WR and 1 RB in the backfield, offering extra pass protection for Clausen. Sherman watches Clausen’s eye throughout this whole play, and capitalizes when Clausen overthrows his intended receiver, #84 Matthews. The Seahawks rush 4, and put both their safeties deep given the distance from the first down marker. They appear to be playing man coverage
Sherman had a number of close interceptions this year that he just missed out on. His bad luck is something that should hopefully correct itself next season.
3rd Quarter – (9:07) (Shotgun) A. Dalton pass incomplete short right to A. Green (R. Sherman).
The Bengals are in a 3WR, 1TE, 1RB set, as the Seahawks counter by playing 5 defenders on the line of scrimmage, with a single high safety and everybody playing zone coverage except for Richard Sherman. The LB playing at the LOS (#54) drops back into the flat. Sherman reads the comeback route beautifully but is unable to come down with a very difficult catch, resulting in another missed takeaway.
4th Quarter – (10:20) (Shotgun) C. Palmer pass short right to JA. Brown to SEA 39 for 10 yards (C. Marsh).
The Cardinals come out empty with 1TE and 4WR. Palmer chooses his receiver running a curl route, who does not have much separation from Sherman. This was not the best decision, as Sherman is able to tip the ball up. However, as he is waiting for the interception, the opposing receiver is able to regain enough concentration to snatch the ball out of the air. Tough play in a close game.