3 takeaways from Seattle Seahawks imperative Week 13 win
By Jake Luppino
In what was a wildly entertaining Week 13 game, the Seattle Seahawks were able to snap their three-game losing streak. In doing so, they also completed the season sweep of divisional rival, San Francisco 49ers.
The Seattle Seahawks certainly made up for their lackluster performances over the last month or so as they were able to move the ball at will throughout the second half. In doing so, they gave fans hope again as the Seattle Seahawks looked like the Seattle Seahawks of old. It is worth noting that the Seahawks left plenty of points on the board as they had numerous turnovers in scoring position.
Regardless, an impressive all-around victory over a hot opponent – in the division nonetheless – should give the Seahawks more confidence moving forward. Ever since Russell Wilson returned from injury, all we have heard was how this offense was going to kick it back into high gear. Well, it finally came to fruition in Week 13.
Here are three takeaways from the Seattle Seahawks imperative Week 13 victory.
3 takeaways from Seattle Seahawks Week 13 win versus 49ers
Effective & Efficient offense
Throughout the three-game losing streak, most of the blame fell into the lap of the Seattle Seahawks offense. Their horrendous third down numbers caused their defense to be on the field longer and thus, resulted in the other teams scoring more points in the more crucial quarters. The lack of rushing attack played a crucial role in all of that as well.
Now, the Seahawks rushing numbers were inflated in the win over the Niners as Travis Homer had a 73-yard fake punt touchdown. But, Seattle did something that they haven’t done in the losing slump: stick with the running game. Even if the running game isn’t working as planned, it doesn’t hurt to keep trying as it will keep the defense honest. If you completely abandon the run, you then put more pressure on your offensive line to consistently hold up in pass protection.
Early on against San Francisco, this Seattle offensive front found themselves in all sorts of trouble as Wilson was constantly under duress. Nevertheless, the commitment to the run game helped open the offense up in the second half and created more time in the pocket for Russell Wilson. On 27 attempts, the Seahawks averaged 5.4 yards per rush. Offensive coordinator, Shane Waldron, deserves a ton of credit for his game plan.
Completing 30 of 37 passes, Wilson averaged 4.4 yards per completion. By working the short, intermediate game, Seattle was able to stay ahead of the chains and keep more possessions alive. In fact, for what feels like the first time in forever, the Seattle Seahawks won the time of possession (33:12 to 26.48). Most importantly, Russell Wilson looked back to his normal self and this victory can serve as a building block for this offense that is still learning and growing under Waldron.