Broncos vs Seahawks: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
By author
In their second exhibition game of the season, the Seahawks defeated the Denver Broncos at Qwest Field 27-13. Even during the preseason where records are somewhat meaningless, wins are always a plus.
A lot of Seattle’s players performed well, and most of the starters played the entire first half of the game. Most importantly, the Seahawks escaped without any serious injuries – Chris Spencer, however, did suffer a quadriceps injury.
Just like last week, here is a rundown of the good, bad, and ugly performances from the game against the Denver Broncos:
THE GOOD
Nick Reed: I think it is safe to say that the undersized defensive end from Oregon has played his way onto Seattle’s 53-man roster. Again, Reed was an absolute machine on the field. He recorded three tackles, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a blocked punt. It will be extremely difficult for Tim Ruskell and the front office to find a good reason not to keep Reed on the roster entering the regular season.
Matt Hasselbeck: Hasselbeck had an extremely efficient night, regardless of the constant pressure and beating he was forced to endure. He completed 69.5 percent of his passes, throwing for 171 yards and two touchdowns. His two touchdown passes were both perfectly thrown, including a 34-yard bomb to rookie wide receiver Deon Butler. Hasselbeck also guided Seattle to a touchdown drive right before the first half expired, connecting with T.J. Houshmandzadeh in the corner of the end zone.
Deon Butler: After a complete no-show the previous week, Butler returned to make several plays against the Denver Broncos. He reeled in a perfect 34-yard pass from Hasselbeck in the first quarter from for a touchdown, and later made a great diving catch on third and long to extend a drive. Butler finished the night with 47 receiving yards.
Justin Forsett: Forsett was the most effective back on Saturday, displaying his versatility and quickness against Denver. Although he only averaged 2.5 yards per carry, Forsett had seven catches, good for 58 yards receiving. He showed that he is extremely effective on screens, and usually won’t go down after initial contact is made. Forsett has all the moves, and will likely have an opportunity to contribute this season.
Jon Ryan: Again, Jon Ryan proved that he is more than capable of handling the punting duties for the Seahawks. Of his seven punts, three were downed inside the 20-yard line. His long of 52 yards was no match for the previous week’s 77 yarder, but he was efficient and displayed good strength the entire game.
C.J. Wallace: In a crowded defensive backfield, C.J. Wallace is making a case for a spot on the 53-man roster. With the starting safeties pretty much established, the other players will have to show their worth on special teams. Wallace made a couple of big hits and performed well in kick coverage, and even forced a fumble late in the third quarter. Although he may not have the future potential that Jamar Adams or Courtney Greene have at safety, Wallace could be more valuable to Seattle now.
THE BAD
Brandon Coutu: Coutu actually had another efficient night kicking field goals, making every field goal attempted (two) with a long of 52 yards. Unfortunately for Coutu, his accuracy and power on field goals isn’t helping the team on kickoffs. He needs to display more distance on his kicks; Coutu kicked the ball off five times, and none of them were touchbacks. In fact, of his five kicks, only one was fielded inside of Denver’s five yard line.
T.J. Duckett: With Julius Jones out with a minor leg injury, Duckett was given the opportunity on Saturday to prove that he is more than just a short-yardage back. Oops. Duckett was ineffective at best, and doesn’t seem like a back who can shoulder a lot of carries. He appeared sluggish and unable, averaging only 2.8 yards on six carries.
THE UGLY
Sean Locklear: Like Duckett, injuries have allowed Locklear the opportunity to prove himself in a new role – Walter Jones’ injuries forced Locklear over to left tackle. Unfortunately for the Seahawks and Matt Hasselbeck, Locklear looked terrible against the Broncos. He failed to recognize a stunt by the opposing defense that resulted in a sack. He appeared hopeless against outside speed, and was even bull rushed by opposing defenders. It became very apparent after Saturday’s game that Sean Locklear is not Walter Jones.
Jordan Kent: Kent has all of the physical tools to be a successful wide receiver: height, long arms, speed, and quickness. Unfortunately for Seattle, it hasn’t translated into success on the field. Kent has a good opportunity to make the team, but he needs to make plays and separate himself from the competition. So far, not good: one catch for eight yards in San Diego, and zero catches on Saturday against the Broncos.