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

Seattle's Swiss cheese run defense

Consistency has eluded the Seattle Seahawks on the defensive side of the ball throughout the 2023 season. Whether it's their secondary or run defense, the team has faced ongoing challenges in finding a solid footing. In Week 17 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Seahawks' struggles continued, particularly against the ground game. Najee Harris ran rampant, tallying 122 rushing yards and two touchdowns, leaving the Seahawks defense searching for answers and resulting in a crushing defeat.

The 2023 season has been characterized by an unsettling lack of consistency for the Seahawks' defense. Issues have arisen in both the secondary and run defense, preventing the team from establishing a reliable defensive identity. For a franchise that has prided itself on defensive prowess in the past, the struggles on this side of the ball have been a source of frustration for players, coaches, and fans alike.

The Seahawks' inability to stifle the Steelers' ground game proved to be a significant factor in the crushing defeat. Whether it was missed tackles, gaps in coverage, or an inability to adjust to the Steelers' offensive strategy, Seattle had no answers for the onslaught led by Najee Harris. The repercussions were evident on the scoreboard and raised concerns about the team's ability to address defensive shortcomings in critical moments.

As the Seahawks enter a must-win Week 18 game with playoff implications, the defensive struggles loom large. The lack of consistency and the vulnerability against both the pass and the run create uncertainty for Seattle's postseason prospects. Defensive adjustments will be paramount in the coming weeks, with the coaching staff and players working collaboratively to shore up weaknesses and regain control on the defensive side of the ball.

The Seahawks' ongoing defensive struggles, highlighted by their inability to contain Najee Harris and the Steelers' ground attack in Week 17, add a layer of complexity to an already challenging season. As the team heads into a must-win Week 18 game, the focus will undoubtedly be on rectifying defensive deficiencies. The journey for the Seahawks continues, and the resolution of their defensive woes will be crucial in determining their fate in the postseason and beyond.

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