The good, the bad, and the ugly in the first quarter of the Seattle Seahawks season

The good: Much improved run defense

The Seattle Seahawks had their share of struggles in the 2022 NFL season, and one glaring Achilles heel was their inability to halt their opponents' running game. However, as the new season unfolds, there is a palpable sense of change in the air, and it's all thanks to the return of their long-time linebacker, Bobby Wagner. With Wagner back in the fold, the Seahawks are showing remarkable improvement in stopping the run and shoring up their defense.

Last season, Seattle's defense, particularly their run defense, left much to be desired. Opposing running backs often found gaping holes in the Seahawks' front seven, and this vulnerability proved costly in crucial matchups. It was an aspect of their game that fans, analysts, and even the players themselves were keen to address.

This season, Wagner's return has been a game-changer. His mere presence on the field has injected new life into the Seahawks' defense, and he has become the glue holding their front seven together. With his uncanny ability to read plays, cover ground quickly, and make key tackles, Wagner has quickly re-established himself as the linchpin of the Seahawks' run-stopping efforts.

The results have been evident in the early games of the season. The Seahawks are showing marked improvement in their run defense, significantly reducing the yards gained by opposing running backs. It's not just about Bobby Wagner making solo tackles; it's about the entire team rallying around their star linebacker to collectively stop the run.