Seahawks Preseason: What We’ve Learned So Far
By Colin Floyd
Friday, August 15
Seattle 41-14 San Diego
Aug 15, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) runs the ball in for a touchdown against San Diego Chargers defensive back Alden Darby (40) during the first half at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Key Performers:
Russell Wilson– Number 3 looked like a seasoned veteran in his first half action; throwing for 121 yards and rushing for 31 more with two touchdowns on the ground. Of course, the O-line was much improved from a week earlier, but whenever the pocket did collapse, Wilson was off to the races running for the first down while still keeping his eyes downfield. Still a limited view, a whole half of work was enough to convince me that there is no need to worry about our starting quarterback and what he brings to this football team.
Robert Turbin– With Christine Michael getting more work last week, it was Turbin’s turn to carry the rock, and carry it he did. 81 yards on 12 attempts with a run of 47 yards along with a touchdown is not bad for only playing in the first half. As Beast Mode’s backup last season, Turbin didn’t really blow anyone away with his play; but he must be getting tired of hearing how good Michael can be, because right now he has solidified himself as the number two back on this team and has not fumbled twice like a certain other running back has.
Brock Coyle- In his second week at middle linebacker, he again impressed. Only one tackle, but six assists; most people believe Heath Farwell to be a lock for this roster, however, with Coyle’s play as of late, as well as his special teams ability, the rookie just might have him beat.
As a Team- 243 yards rushing. 14 first downs on the ground. Five touchdowns, all rushing. Your starting quarterback rushed for two, and two backup QBs rushed for two more. Oh yeah, and a running back had one. In all seriousness, this box score is very much attainable in the regular season if the team plays the way they want to, which was embodied throughout this entire game. Yes it was still a preseason game, but from the week before, the O-Line improved drastically, the D-Line was better with four sacks, the running game was phenomenal and the whole defensive unit only allowed 14 points. Sound familiar? This was the game plan heading into every game last season; Pete Carroll has said he still plans to keep a heavy run-first focus on offense despite the fast-paced, high-flying look of today’s game. If the starters can play four quarters of football like the team did against San Diego, the Hawks will be back in the Super Bowl.