The good, the bad, and the ugly in Seahawks Week 17 deflating loss versus Steelers

Seattle's inefficient run game

For the Seattle Seahawks, a strong running game has long been the backbone of their identity under the leadership of coach Pete Carroll. However, the 2023 season has seen a departure from the norm, as the team's usually reliable ground attack has struggled to find its rhythm. Despite preseason expectations of a potent backfield featuring sophomore Kenneth Walker III and rookie Zach Charbonnet, the Seahawks' running game has proven inefficient, casting a shadow of concern as they approach a must-win Week 18 showdown.

Under the tenure of Coach Pete Carroll, the Seahawks have built their identity around a powerful running game. This commitment to ground-and-pound football has been a key factor in the team's success year after year. Fans have come to expect a dominant rushing attack that sets the tone for the Seahawks offense and wears down opposing defenses.

Heading into the 2023 season, optimism surrounded the Seahawks' backfield with the promising duo of Kenneth Walker III and rookie Zach Charbonnet. However, the reality on the field has not lived up to the preseason hype. The running game, which is typically a strength for the Seahawks, has struggled to find consistency, leaving fans and analysts alike puzzled by the lack of efficiency.

In a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Seahawks' running game faltered when it mattered most. Despite a rushing touchdown from Kenneth Walker III, the overall production was far from impressive. Walker finished the game with just 53 rushing yards, a paltry number against a Steelers defense that has shown vulnerabilities against the run throughout the season.

As the Seahawks prepare for a must-win Week 18 game, the inefficiency of their running game looms large. In the postseason picture, a strong ground attack is often a determining factor for success, and the Seahawks find themselves at a disadvantage. The lack of consistent production from the backfield raises questions about the team's ability to impose their will on opponents when it matters most.