Seahawks Week 1 defensive performance vs. Broncos a perfect preview for what's to come in 2024
The Seattle Seahawks kicked their season off on a high note in Week 1, defeating the Denver Broncos 26-20. It was far from a perfect performance by the Seahawks, particularly for the offensive line, but they got the job done and secured the victory. Mike Macdonald not only got his first win as a head […]
The Seattle Seahawks kicked their season off on a high note in Week 1, defeating the Denver Broncos 26-20.
It was far from a perfect performance by the Seahawks, particularly for the offensive line, but they got the job done and secured the victory. Mike Macdonald not only got his first win as a head coach, but he showed that his background as a defensive mastermind is what's going to anchor the team this season.
Macdonald has had a role as a defensive coach in some capacity with numerous different teams since 2011. He spent the previous two years as the Baltimore Ravens' defensive coordinator, leading the unit to top 10 finishes each season. Now as the head man with Seattle, his defense is off to a dominant start.
The Seahawk offense didn't make it easy for the defense, turning the ball over once and inexplicably surrendering two safeties during the first half. Despite the offense spotting the Broncos four free points and putting them at a huge advantage in field position, Macdonald's defense was up for the challenge.
Seattle's defense held the Broncos' offense to just three field goals in the first half and surrendered a garbage time touchdown late in the fourth quarter. The defensive line controlled the line of scrimmage throughout the game, shutting down Denver's rushing attack and keeping pressure on rookie quarterback Bo Nix.
The Seahawks' defense sacked Nix twice and held him to an astoundingly low 3.3 yards per completion. It also got two interceptions off Nix and forced and recovered a fumble by running back Jaleel McLaughlin. The Broncos totaled just 231 yards of offense on the day.
Sure, the Seahawks were facing a quarterback making his NFL debut, but the Denver offense was expected by many to be much improved. The Broncos have offensive playmakers such as Courtland Sutton, Javonte Williams and Marvin Mims Jr., but the Seattle defense held them all in check.
The Seahawks had a lot of question marks on defense entering the season, losing both starting safeties and all three starting linebackers. However, they have done a nice job retooling, and Macdonald is going to get the most out of his guys. Macdonald's defense will keep his team in most games, putting the onus on the offense – which as plenty of talent and time to gel – to do its part.
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