Studs and duds from the Seahawks' Week 5 loss to the Giants

DUD - Seahawks special teams

With the game still up for grabs, the Seattle Seahawks found themselves well within range to narrow the gap and potentially mount a comeback against the New York Giants. However, their hopes were dashed when Jason Myers’ critical field goal attempt was blocked and returned for a touchdown by the Giants. In a matter of moments, the opportunity to claw back into the game was erased, leaving the Seahawks reeling from what turned out to be the decisive play of the game.

Such a devastating sequence underscores the importance of special teams in close contests. The Seahawks have long prided themselves on being a well-rounded team, with each phase—offense, defense, and special teams—playing a pivotal role in their pursuit of success.

For a team aiming to solidify itself as a strong contender in the NFC West, mistakes on special teams, especially in high-pressure situations, are unacceptable. The blocked field goal and subsequent touchdown not only shifted the momentum entirely in favor of the Giants but also delivered a gut-wrenching blow to Seattle’s hopes of securing a hard-fought victory.

The Seahawks' special teams coordinator will undoubtedly review this play extensively, as breakdowns like these can often determine the outcome of close games. Blocking schemes, protection, and execution on crucial plays, all need to be flawless, particularly in tight matchups where every point matters. Allowing the Giants not only to block the kick but to recover the ball and take it to the house is the kind of mistake that leaves players and coaches questioning their preparation and attention to detail.

In a season where every win is crucial, particularly with the NFC West race tightening, the Seahawks cannot afford to let special teams mishaps dictate the outcome of games. If they are to establish themselves as legitimate contenders, they must clean up these mistakes and ensure that special teams play remains a strength, not a weakness, moving forward.

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