Seahawks host the 49ers: The perfect game to bring back a certain mentality

Besides the defense and special teams, the Seahawks performance last week was abysmal. A few of the Seattle players displayed flashes of brilliance, but for the most part, players and 12s alike were state in a bewilderment.

Where did the continuity and communication on offensive line go over the span of a week? Will running back Chris Carson ultimately become the starter? Are 12s going to go through another season of the defense giving the offense a piggyback ride?

Seattle Seahawks mentality

At the core of the championship seasons was a  mentality that has gone amiss as of late. A certain nastiness. The defense has not lost this identity, but the offense has ever since the exit of Marshawn Lynch. “Beastmode” was the epitome of nastiness.

This week’s match-up is focusing on the Seahawks retaining this attitude against an opponent. No other team brings out Seattle’s anger more than the San Francisco 49ers.

Offensive Line

Now let’s get this out of the way, the offensive line did not perform well against Green Bay.

Exhibit A:

There is definitely opportunity for growth all across the front line. One of the key areas on a team to bring a little of the nasty side to them is this particular unit.

I’ve played the position. There needs to be an attitude of driving anyone back to create space for a running back. One of my favorite Seahawks to watch was Breno Giacomini, a little inconsistent at times and unneeded penalties thrown in his direction, but there was a nastiness to him.

Whenever he walked up to the line of scrimmage, he was going to do whatever it took to protect the quarterback or spring the running back free.

The San Francisco 49ers created this nature amongst these two teams. It was going to be a hard hitting, heavy weight bout with even 12s feeling exhausted at the conclusion of a game.

Last week was only the first game and Seattle always starts out slow.

With an NFC West game hanging in the balance, a weaker opponent and new coaching staff coming to the Northwest, this could be the perfect storm to give insight into the rest of the season.

The Progression

There is no denying the play of quarterback Russell Wilson, but his performance and others is reflected by how well the offensive line handles a defensive front.

Being able to give whoever is in at running back an opportunity to gain some yards on the ground. To be able to give Wilson enough time to go through his options downfield before looking for an open lane to utilize his legs.

Related Story: Chris Carson needs to start now for the Seahawks

The focal point will always be the offensive line. A unit under a magnifying glass for a few weeks, the group needs to find a mentality that will be contagious among the rest of the offense and feed the 12s.