Right. I wrote a comment that blamed Grubb for the defensive problems created by failing to STOP the run. MM knew we needed to stop the run to have any chance of winning. We did not make adjustments to our defense until halftime.
I’ve had this argument about Grubb needing to go with several people this week. I keep saying that JS hired an extremely rookie coaching staff last off season. He had to know there would be stumbles as they learned their new roles. I have a hard time believing anyone coaching an 8-6 team has done anything to be fired after one season. I thought that Grubb’s offense was better than MM’s defense in early season, defense was better than offense after the bye, both were good at AZ and neither good against GB. Anyone expecting a SB win this season was probably delusional, although it is still possible. What we’re hoping for is a new staff to learn and grow so that hope is more realistic next year.
Perspective is important, and overthinking one game in a developmental season seems like folly to me. The 3-0 start was misleading. The 1-5 stretch showed how much work there was to be done. The 4-0 stretch showed improvement, but also continued to show weaknesses. The loss to GB concluded a 4-1 stretch, which, in a developmental or formative season, is not too bad.
Most of us thought at the start of the season we would likely be not far from a 50/50 team. So far, that still seems pretty probable. So, they are right where we thought they'd be. And if they are right where we thought they'd be, there should be no shock, surprise, or frustration with where they are.
Let's see how it all unfolds. They will certainly make adjustments with 17 weeks of real football to assess. Changes will be made. I have no idea what they will be other than I know they will draft 6 or more players and bring in a bunch of undrafted free agents. Players will get cut, players will get added, and yes, perhaps some changes to the coaching staff. We'll see.
If there is one thing I think I know about Mike MacDonald, it's that he has an exceedingly high bar. He'll give you the opportunity to either show you can live up to his expectations, but if you show you can't, you won't be around for long. If he was aggressive enough mid-season to get rid of both his iLB's, what might he do in the offseason? Won't know that for a bit.
I'm not down on this team at all. I think they will be better next year, and they're not bad this year. Enjoy the rest of the season.
If I'm going to blame Grubb for anything from the last match, it's actually for stuff that should have happened during the week: the OL did not looked prepared or cohesive and Sam Howell sure as shit wasn't ready to go. (I am saving my wrath with the people who have been calling for Geno to be benched all year for this weekend if Howell gets the start against Minny.)
The real issue on gameday, as SSJ identified, was giving up 20pts on 4 possessions to start the game. The defense did start playing much better from the late 2nd quarter onwards so they weren't terrible all day, just too big of a hole to dig out of this time.
This coaching staff is building something here and if you remember MM leans heavily on a “growth mindset”. I can’t imagine recruiting a staff that has never worked together also came with caveat of a short leash for any of them. Even with the disappointments this season I don’t foresee a lot of turnover on the coaching staff - I do think they will get at least 2 years to figure some things out.
But maybe we should all just agree, that none of us actually know anything because we’re not in the building?
Not saying SJ is saying or implying this, but I don’t feel like anyone is shirking responsibility or lacking accountability. I think if you asked any guy in the locker room, they would all start with what they can do better. The players are bought in and I appreciate how cohesive the team is.
It is also plain to see that we are still lacking some key pieces and have some veterans who are not living up to their contracts. The young guys need time to develop. we would all be wise to give our new coaches time to implement their system and get the right personnel in place.
Great points, and I can't see how anyone can argue with the facts! That pick in the endzone was crazy, because the D on that play, was set up to win in part because of the route Tyler ran( I am sure he ran what he was supposed to) My question is why would TL be running a route that would essentially allow his defender to be in perfect spacing to jump the close route directly behind him??? Although there was a blatant PI on Fant (Not called, I still can't fathom why not, since it was obvious?) they should have had the ball on the 1, First and goal. That might have changed a few things, since the D was finally changing up it's reads and doing a much better job. But it was obvious from the get-go that MM was (maybe because the Pack had the extra time to change things for this game the Hawks hadn't seen?) got outcoached that first half, especially defensively. It also appeared the O-line seemed kinda lost in space, so I would gather that the same thing might apply, the extra time allowed the Pack and their great coach to have a new game plan just for what the improved Hawks had been doing well. BUT it is what it is, let's learn and move on, just don't forget!
Seahawks overall in 2023 were 10th in EPA/play. Here is broken down a little bit more
2023 Week 13-18: 3rd best in EPA/play
2024 Weeks 1-4: 11th best EPA/play
2024 Weeks 5-8: 21st best EPA/play
2024 Week 9-12: 28th best EPA/play
2024 Week 13+: 20th best EPA/play
I love Grubb and like taking a shot on the hire ... But the facts are just the facts. Not saying he needs to go but it is pretty clear he has made the offense worse so far. Basically, everything else is the same if not better than 2023 and he is doing significantly worse than Shane Waldron.
"Not saying he needs to go but it is pretty clear he has made the offense worse so far."
I can understand why people want him canned. I think there is strong evidence to support that point of view.
Sigh ... I do not know what I would want to do. For me this is a tough call because I really like Grubb. But much of that is driven from UW success. So, I think if I were JS, I would need a strong year-end review with the guy I know I am standing behind Mike Mac. And see what he says.
Sometimes its better to just say, I respect the hell of you and think you will be great but this just isn't a great fit for us. And part ways. I could also see them saying lets roll up our sleaves now that we have one year together under our belt and attack what we want to be next year with what we know now.
So tough call for me. I would weight heavily what Mike Mac wants to do.
What do I think will happen? If the season ended today? I think it would be slightly more likely they part ways. Like 60% chance he leaves. But its a tough call.
Gotcha. But considering they have been through so many OCs, and like Mike and the LBs, they were not “his” guys is this same on offensive side? Because I will point out, Grubb has given us our next stud WR in JSN. He’s unlocked that. Just like so many players, they need to be coached up. Knight wasn’t ready in camp/preseason. He is now. Bryant took 2.5 years but I really like him now. Get me a Hutch at LG and I can see a huge difference next year. What I do agree with you on, I’m not sure Grubb is a run oriented OC. He wasn’t at UW. But I have limited knowledge of his prior seasons but at Fresno was again a top QB.
I’m on Grubbs side. I’d like to see him back. I think a year off to review the tape hang out with Mike Mac … could do wonders. Give the guy another year!
I will say this … if they stick with Grubb I will be very excited. Becuase that to me will mean Mike Mac and Grubb see a vision together for the team and offense. Is could see the team being even stronger with that relationship having gone through this year.
Matt LaFleur has shown his overall excellence and so to be out-coached by him is no particular shame, especially given how new the Seahawks coaches are. The way the Packers have drafted over the last 5 to 6 years is clearly special including the patience they have shown with their younger players. The Seahawks' development is going to take several years. There is a decent core of younger players, but also glaring holes that will take time to fill and arrive at a championship level. I think MM will be around long enough to see it through if defense remains strong and resilient.
Cool. Way to nail it, Seaside Joe. It is high time MacD coaches them (and himself) away from playing a kid's game. Green Bay channeled their Vince Lombardi on us Sunday. Consider our Hawks schooled for meeting them again in the Playoffs. That game is the best thing that has happened this year.
So…I think we all knew there would be games like this with a completely new coaching staff and new offensive and defensive schemes. I was hoping we’d run the table but need hyper optimistic me didn’t think it likely.
I’m not gonna over-react to this one game. If the same thing happens in the next three games, then the team needs some reassessment. But sadly, games like this happen.
I hope MM is not one of those great coordinators who just can't make the jump to being at least a good, if not great head coach. He needs some time, another couple of years and the authority to make changes on his coaching staff. I wouldn't give the same patience to the assistants that I do to MM because he didn't hire them and the buck needs to stop with the head coach. Let him have the offseason to get his own guys on his coaching staff, however he sees fit, whether retaining or bringing in new blood. So next year, he has responsibility for all aspects since he decided on his staff. From me he gets a pass on Grubb's coaching performance this year, but if he retains him, then next year, he bears full responsibility for Grubb's results on offense. Same for the remainder of the staff.
Give Grubb more time to acclimate. I'd hate for him to get his feet wet here, we let him walk, then his offense explodes at the next stop. 1 more year minimum to improve the line and our guys to learn the system.
If that is what MM thinks is best, then he should. However, MM will get zero passes from me on the offense next year if Grubb continues to coach so poorly. That is on the head coach, the leader who sets his coaching staff.
After rewatching much of this game ... It has become more clear how much of a coaching advantage the Packers had. They were on a mini-bye and they came in and took full advantage of it. Matt Lafluer is the real deal and hats off to him. Great organization.
Furthermore, any respectable High School QB in the country could have done Jordan Love's job. That is how easy Matt Lafleur made it on him.
Seasider KR and I had a good talk on the previous article. Which also made me take a look back at the Packers game plan and to expand on what Joe was saying.
GB's first TD drive Jordan Love did not throw the ball past the line of scrimmage!
His second drive? He was asked to make 2 throws past the line of scrimmage! 5 yards past the line and 7 yards past the line.
14-0 and the Packers barely attempted a forward pass!
Compare that to how hard and how much we ask of Geno Smith. And you could clearly see how hard of a job we ask of the QB when Sam Howell came in. I am surprised (and not surprised) that people's takeaway is Sam Howell sucks. I do not believe Sam Howell sucks, I don't think he is good either (at this point in time there is always potential to improve). But the performance on Sunday Night should show how good Geno Smith is with what he has to work with, IMO.
Script 15 plays for Sam to use the next time he must come in. Let them practise them this week and allow Geno to rest. The guys need to have a feel for him and vice versa. Whereas Geno knows to escape backwards, Sam went forward into an easy sack. Rinse/repeat. For all the newness of this team, I can see how the Sam Option has escaped the planning.
Yeah ... I think Sam needs a Russell WIlson style offense.
Run first, deep drops, roll the pocket. I just can't see him being an effective pocket passer like Geno.
But in general, it looks pretty bleak if we have to play Sam Howell again. Don't want to kill the guy and getting some plays that highlights his strengths would be a good idea.
I have always called BS on the storyline that JS wanted to move Geno is completely bogus IMO. The whole narrative is completely fabricated without any shred of proof. The only thing people point to with any sort of indication is an Adam Schefter tweet. But did anyone see his next tweet? He said Howell was brought in to compete for the starting job. Well JS shot that down within 1 hour on the radio. All that is to say, Schefter does not have a reliable source at the Hawks.
Also, my buddy had dinner with JS and Chuck Arnold. He said first hand those guys could not be happier with Geno. JS/Arnold consider him to be a pro's pro, works hard, tough, talented, not a distraction, just overall they absolutely love him.
The talk this offseason wasn't about Geno, it was JS trying to court Lock so he would resign, IMO.
Once again, I have no idea how anyone could watch that game and come to the conclusion that the team will move on from Geno Smith, a guy asked to do a ton while under pressure and still moved the ball up and down the field, while Sam Howell comes in and has one of the worst performances in recent history of the NFL.
Geno will likely be extended, IMO, (I have said this since day one) and I for one will cherish this time watching an incredible talent at QB try to will the team around him to victory. The guy is amazing and hopefully here for the next 3-5 years.
Agreed, there's no way the Vikings don't re-sign Darnold, Not after the statistical season he has had and the success the team has had as well. A Mayfield type contract would make the most sense and allow their understudy QB (McCarthy) to continue his development.
It's possible there could be a system type situation here where any capable QB would have success?
According to what I've read is many don't think they will resign Darnold since they drafted the Kid from Michigan ( I believe). If they aren't or don't resign Darnold I would think he would be a good fit here.
Wow ... An at least 12-win team going to move on to the rookie! Amazing.
That would be surprising to me... but who knows.
One thing for sure Joe said is right, the NFL with the salary cap is always entertaining and intriguing year round.
I'll be interested to see what happens there. But even with McCarthy I just feel like they will go the Baker Mayfield route. That is kind of one of the upsides to finding a Geno or Baker or Darnold is you can keep them for cheap.
Great to see a Sam Howell supporter out there! I don’t know what will happen with him but I think it was a good move to get him and hope that he continues to develop!
No way I’m crushing him after one half of one game of football.
Right … so there is no proof that JS was going to trade Geno.
John at private dinner can say exactly what he thinks. He was at a dinner (mike Mac was there) and about 8 others. Why would he lie? He went out of his way to say it.
When Greg Bell asked him what the long term plan is at QB? JS was (upset) and basically laughed … like what in the world are you talking about?
If you have a feeling that he wanted to trade him … great. But all the actions and what actually happened show that it was never the case.
People believe many things - no skin off my back. Believe whatever you want to believe. But there is no proof and it’s a common narrative around some Seahawks parts that tend to view Geno negatively and have for years no matter what happens. Not saying that’s you - I don’t know.
I definitely think the Hawks and JS like Howell. I like Howell. But it is a shot. Most QBs won’t make it. That’s just the reality. I’m not counting Howell out at all … let the guy develop. But remember he also won’t be that cheap soon as next year is his last year on the rookie deal.
I also think they need to change/tweak the offense for Howell. Looking at Baker is a great idea. Not many are pocket passers like Geno.
Anyways, the most likely plan to me is the most obvious one. Geno is extended on a similar contract to the one he is on now and they keep trying to grow with Sam Howell. Present, short term, long term is all right there.
"Did I suggest in any way that John was lying at that private dinner? I did not. Stop making stuff up to support your narrative."
This comment just doesn't make any sense. I am letting you know what JS said. Take it or leave it. I don't care.
"Regarding Geno, weeks were going by where John refused to commit to Geno as our starter. Even Coach Macdonald was lukewarm in his Geno comments. During one interview Coach Macdonald was asked about Geno and he actually deflected to make positive comments about Lock."
This is because Geno Smith was under contract and they were trying to sign Drew Lock
"John was also wrangling Genos contract to make it easier to move him. Bringing down the cost for the other team."
This was to bring down the cap hit for the Seahawks and is a simple lever in his contract. Nothing to see.
"All of this was being reported in the local media over weeks with a emphasis on the strangeness of it all. Apparently you were not paying attention. Your comment on the main story being John courting Lock falls hollow to me. I read and follow everything in the local media and there was no such story. At all. The main story for weeks was the incongruity of John refusing to acknowledge Geno as the starter. Facts. The media was all over it."
I was paying very close attention. I guess I should believe every narrative the media says to me? But that is not what I do. I understand that it is hard to go against the grain. But especially in the internet era, the media becomes an echo chamber and follows the herd.
My opinion: JS told Mike Mac that he wants to keep Lock and keep developing him so talk about him in all media conferences. Lock saw right through this and knew that Geno's place on the team was rock solid. So he left for the Giants even though they have a higher paid QB he knew that he had a better path to start at the Giants than the Hawks. Both of these show the stability in the building with Geno.
"I believe John was negotiating with a team but their offer fell flat, probably because John wants a 1st rd pick and that wasn't on the table. So after that fell through, John and Coach immediately embraced the inevitable and put on happy faces regarding Geno. As they should, Geno is a Dude and deserves respect. As a addendum, I believe Lock was turned off by what he perceived happening behind the scenes regarding Geno and decided to bolt to N.Y. What I mean specifically is that Geno and Lock are probably kinda tight, and Lock didn't want to acquire the QB job in a way that would have felt less than honorable, and put shade on the friendship he had with Geno. Hence Lock takes off for N.Y. without even consulting first with John. And we all know how highly John thinks of Lock. John was probably assuming that Lock was in like the flynn. But the backroom maneuvering was the wildcard that drove Lock off."
I guess its possible. But Pro athletes are generally like the rest of us just hyper competitive. I don't think Lock is acting in any sort of altruistic way. I think he knew Geno was the starter and he chose a franchise with a QB on the hot seat.
Couple other notes:
- Seahawks pay out Geno's bonus well before the deadline.
- The Lock talk immediately stops when he leaves. When they sign Howell? There is no Howell talk. JS squashes it within 1 hour of a Schefter tweet.
- The same media that spins this story has told you the Hawks will draft a QB in 2022, then in 2023, then in 2024. They were wrong, wrong, and wrong. How often are they dead wrong before one starts looking at what is right?
- John Boyle's post draft article didn't even have a QB on their big board at 5. It was either Will Anderson or Spoon. This was after their big dog and pony show they put on visiting QBs. They were never drafting a QB and they knew it. Compare that to the Falcons this year who wouldn't even show up to Penix' pro day for fear of tipping their hand. Or the stories of the Chiefs and Patty mahomes. When a team really wants something they show the least interest possible.
Once again, believe whatever you want to believe. But I am very careful to what public figures say to the public and prefer to watch their actions. Obviously, I have some inside knowledge, but in general most of what has happened is public info.
The big problem I see with the media is that they start with an opinion that is off base which causes a domino affect where they are constantly confused by the Seahawks. They start from a place where they think Geno Smith is not the answer at QB which leads them down rabbit holes. If you start from a place that Geno Smith is really good and the Hawks love him - then all of their moves and public comments make perfect sense.
Your life choose whatever you want to believe. I don't care. But the information is out there if you want to take a fresh look.
Right. I wrote a comment that blamed Grubb for the defensive problems created by failing to STOP the run. MM knew we needed to stop the run to have any chance of winning. We did not make adjustments to our defense until halftime.
I’ve had this argument about Grubb needing to go with several people this week. I keep saying that JS hired an extremely rookie coaching staff last off season. He had to know there would be stumbles as they learned their new roles. I have a hard time believing anyone coaching an 8-6 team has done anything to be fired after one season. I thought that Grubb’s offense was better than MM’s defense in early season, defense was better than offense after the bye, both were good at AZ and neither good against GB. Anyone expecting a SB win this season was probably delusional, although it is still possible. What we’re hoping for is a new staff to learn and grow so that hope is more realistic next year.
Finally, someone speaking the truth. I’m tired of the piling on of grub. Great work for Seaside Joe.
Perspective is important, and overthinking one game in a developmental season seems like folly to me. The 3-0 start was misleading. The 1-5 stretch showed how much work there was to be done. The 4-0 stretch showed improvement, but also continued to show weaknesses. The loss to GB concluded a 4-1 stretch, which, in a developmental or formative season, is not too bad.
Most of us thought at the start of the season we would likely be not far from a 50/50 team. So far, that still seems pretty probable. So, they are right where we thought they'd be. And if they are right where we thought they'd be, there should be no shock, surprise, or frustration with where they are.
Let's see how it all unfolds. They will certainly make adjustments with 17 weeks of real football to assess. Changes will be made. I have no idea what they will be other than I know they will draft 6 or more players and bring in a bunch of undrafted free agents. Players will get cut, players will get added, and yes, perhaps some changes to the coaching staff. We'll see.
If there is one thing I think I know about Mike MacDonald, it's that he has an exceedingly high bar. He'll give you the opportunity to either show you can live up to his expectations, but if you show you can't, you won't be around for long. If he was aggressive enough mid-season to get rid of both his iLB's, what might he do in the offseason? Won't know that for a bit.
I'm not down on this team at all. I think they will be better next year, and they're not bad this year. Enjoy the rest of the season.
If I'm going to blame Grubb for anything from the last match, it's actually for stuff that should have happened during the week: the OL did not looked prepared or cohesive and Sam Howell sure as shit wasn't ready to go. (I am saving my wrath with the people who have been calling for Geno to be benched all year for this weekend if Howell gets the start against Minny.)
The real issue on gameday, as SSJ identified, was giving up 20pts on 4 possessions to start the game. The defense did start playing much better from the late 2nd quarter onwards so they weren't terrible all day, just too big of a hole to dig out of this time.
This coaching staff is building something here and if you remember MM leans heavily on a “growth mindset”. I can’t imagine recruiting a staff that has never worked together also came with caveat of a short leash for any of them. Even with the disappointments this season I don’t foresee a lot of turnover on the coaching staff - I do think they will get at least 2 years to figure some things out.
But maybe we should all just agree, that none of us actually know anything because we’re not in the building?
Not saying SJ is saying or implying this, but I don’t feel like anyone is shirking responsibility or lacking accountability. I think if you asked any guy in the locker room, they would all start with what they can do better. The players are bought in and I appreciate how cohesive the team is.
It is also plain to see that we are still lacking some key pieces and have some veterans who are not living up to their contracts. The young guys need time to develop. we would all be wise to give our new coaches time to implement their system and get the right personnel in place.
But as a fan I want them to win now dammit!!! 😆😎
Great points, and I can't see how anyone can argue with the facts! That pick in the endzone was crazy, because the D on that play, was set up to win in part because of the route Tyler ran( I am sure he ran what he was supposed to) My question is why would TL be running a route that would essentially allow his defender to be in perfect spacing to jump the close route directly behind him??? Although there was a blatant PI on Fant (Not called, I still can't fathom why not, since it was obvious?) they should have had the ball on the 1, First and goal. That might have changed a few things, since the D was finally changing up it's reads and doing a much better job. But it was obvious from the get-go that MM was (maybe because the Pack had the extra time to change things for this game the Hawks hadn't seen?) got outcoached that first half, especially defensively. It also appeared the O-line seemed kinda lost in space, so I would gather that the same thing might apply, the extra time allowed the Pack and their great coach to have a new game plan just for what the improved Hawks had been doing well. BUT it is what it is, let's learn and move on, just don't forget!
Corbin Smith had a great article that sums it up offensively pretty well on Seattle Seahawks SI Yesterday, I believe- Very Good read.
Seahawks offensive efficiency:
Seahawks overall in 2023 were 10th in EPA/play. Here is broken down a little bit more
2023 Week 13-18: 3rd best in EPA/play
2024 Weeks 1-4: 11th best EPA/play
2024 Weeks 5-8: 21st best EPA/play
2024 Week 9-12: 28th best EPA/play
2024 Week 13+: 20th best EPA/play
I love Grubb and like taking a shot on the hire ... But the facts are just the facts. Not saying he needs to go but it is pretty clear he has made the offense worse so far. Basically, everything else is the same if not better than 2023 and he is doing significantly worse than Shane Waldron.
Worse than Shane????? Where’s Shane now? :-)
Exactly ... And that should tell you all you need to know about Grubb.
Lost me a tad there. So Grubb should be canned after one season?
"Not saying he needs to go but it is pretty clear he has made the offense worse so far."
I can understand why people want him canned. I think there is strong evidence to support that point of view.
Sigh ... I do not know what I would want to do. For me this is a tough call because I really like Grubb. But much of that is driven from UW success. So, I think if I were JS, I would need a strong year-end review with the guy I know I am standing behind Mike Mac. And see what he says.
Sometimes its better to just say, I respect the hell of you and think you will be great but this just isn't a great fit for us. And part ways. I could also see them saying lets roll up our sleaves now that we have one year together under our belt and attack what we want to be next year with what we know now.
So tough call for me. I would weight heavily what Mike Mac wants to do.
What do I think will happen? If the season ended today? I think it would be slightly more likely they part ways. Like 60% chance he leaves. But its a tough call.
Gotcha. But considering they have been through so many OCs, and like Mike and the LBs, they were not “his” guys is this same on offensive side? Because I will point out, Grubb has given us our next stud WR in JSN. He’s unlocked that. Just like so many players, they need to be coached up. Knight wasn’t ready in camp/preseason. He is now. Bryant took 2.5 years but I really like him now. Get me a Hutch at LG and I can see a huge difference next year. What I do agree with you on, I’m not sure Grubb is a run oriented OC. He wasn’t at UW. But I have limited knowledge of his prior seasons but at Fresno was again a top QB.
You know what?
I’m on Grubbs side. I’d like to see him back. I think a year off to review the tape hang out with Mike Mac … could do wonders. Give the guy another year!
I will say this … if they stick with Grubb I will be very excited. Becuase that to me will mean Mike Mac and Grubb see a vision together for the team and offense. Is could see the team being even stronger with that relationship having gone through this year.
I think that would be great news to have him back
Matt LaFleur has shown his overall excellence and so to be out-coached by him is no particular shame, especially given how new the Seahawks coaches are. The way the Packers have drafted over the last 5 to 6 years is clearly special including the patience they have shown with their younger players. The Seahawks' development is going to take several years. There is a decent core of younger players, but also glaring holes that will take time to fill and arrive at a championship level. I think MM will be around long enough to see it through if defense remains strong and resilient.
Cool. Way to nail it, Seaside Joe. It is high time MacD coaches them (and himself) away from playing a kid's game. Green Bay channeled their Vince Lombardi on us Sunday. Consider our Hawks schooled for meeting them again in the Playoffs. That game is the best thing that has happened this year.
So…I think we all knew there would be games like this with a completely new coaching staff and new offensive and defensive schemes. I was hoping we’d run the table but need hyper optimistic me didn’t think it likely.
I’m not gonna over-react to this one game. If the same thing happens in the next three games, then the team needs some reassessment. But sadly, games like this happen.
I hope MM is not one of those great coordinators who just can't make the jump to being at least a good, if not great head coach. He needs some time, another couple of years and the authority to make changes on his coaching staff. I wouldn't give the same patience to the assistants that I do to MM because he didn't hire them and the buck needs to stop with the head coach. Let him have the offseason to get his own guys on his coaching staff, however he sees fit, whether retaining or bringing in new blood. So next year, he has responsibility for all aspects since he decided on his staff. From me he gets a pass on Grubb's coaching performance this year, but if he retains him, then next year, he bears full responsibility for Grubb's results on offense. Same for the remainder of the staff.
Give Grubb more time to acclimate. I'd hate for him to get his feet wet here, we let him walk, then his offense explodes at the next stop. 1 more year minimum to improve the line and our guys to learn the system.
If that is what MM thinks is best, then he should. However, MM will get zero passes from me on the offense next year if Grubb continues to coach so poorly. That is on the head coach, the leader who sets his coaching staff.
After rewatching much of this game ... It has become more clear how much of a coaching advantage the Packers had. They were on a mini-bye and they came in and took full advantage of it. Matt Lafluer is the real deal and hats off to him. Great organization.
Furthermore, any respectable High School QB in the country could have done Jordan Love's job. That is how easy Matt Lafleur made it on him.
Seasider KR and I had a good talk on the previous article. Which also made me take a look back at the Packers game plan and to expand on what Joe was saying.
GB's first TD drive Jordan Love did not throw the ball past the line of scrimmage!
His second drive? He was asked to make 2 throws past the line of scrimmage! 5 yards past the line and 7 yards past the line.
14-0 and the Packers barely attempted a forward pass!
Compare that to how hard and how much we ask of Geno Smith. And you could clearly see how hard of a job we ask of the QB when Sam Howell came in. I am surprised (and not surprised) that people's takeaway is Sam Howell sucks. I do not believe Sam Howell sucks, I don't think he is good either (at this point in time there is always potential to improve). But the performance on Sunday Night should show how good Geno Smith is with what he has to work with, IMO.
Script 15 plays for Sam to use the next time he must come in. Let them practise them this week and allow Geno to rest. The guys need to have a feel for him and vice versa. Whereas Geno knows to escape backwards, Sam went forward into an easy sack. Rinse/repeat. For all the newness of this team, I can see how the Sam Option has escaped the planning.
Yeah ... I think Sam needs a Russell WIlson style offense.
Run first, deep drops, roll the pocket. I just can't see him being an effective pocket passer like Geno.
But in general, it looks pretty bleak if we have to play Sam Howell again. Don't want to kill the guy and getting some plays that highlights his strengths would be a good idea.
The guy reminds me of Baker Mayfield. Open the front and let him bang. Get his blood up. Angry Run awards.
I could see that!
Kind of similar throwing motions and body type too.
Bucs would be a good offense to look at to see what they are doing with Baker and try that with Sam.
One thing is for sure, I am not kicking Sam out of Seattle after 1 half of football!
Amen and amen, lest we become very small people. Sam deserves a righteous shot. I'm hearing the GB fans made a whole lot of noise over the 12s. Grrr.
I have always called BS on the storyline that JS wanted to move Geno is completely bogus IMO. The whole narrative is completely fabricated without any shred of proof. The only thing people point to with any sort of indication is an Adam Schefter tweet. But did anyone see his next tweet? He said Howell was brought in to compete for the starting job. Well JS shot that down within 1 hour on the radio. All that is to say, Schefter does not have a reliable source at the Hawks.
Also, my buddy had dinner with JS and Chuck Arnold. He said first hand those guys could not be happier with Geno. JS/Arnold consider him to be a pro's pro, works hard, tough, talented, not a distraction, just overall they absolutely love him.
The talk this offseason wasn't about Geno, it was JS trying to court Lock so he would resign, IMO.
Once again, I have no idea how anyone could watch that game and come to the conclusion that the team will move on from Geno Smith, a guy asked to do a ton while under pressure and still moved the ball up and down the field, while Sam Howell comes in and has one of the worst performances in recent history of the NFL.
Geno will likely be extended, IMO, (I have said this since day one) and I for one will cherish this time watching an incredible talent at QB try to will the team around him to victory. The guy is amazing and hopefully here for the next 3-5 years.
Go Hawks
again , Sam Darnold will probably be available , being younger and finally getting it ,that might be a good place to look and at least think on it.
I saw that somewhere also.
Why would the Vikings let him go? Can they not afford him?
I would think they will resign him to a Baker/Geno type contract.
Agreed, there's no way the Vikings don't re-sign Darnold, Not after the statistical season he has had and the success the team has had as well. A Mayfield type contract would make the most sense and allow their understudy QB (McCarthy) to continue his development.
It's possible there could be a system type situation here where any capable QB would have success?
According to what I've read is many don't think they will resign Darnold since they drafted the Kid from Michigan ( I believe). If they aren't or don't resign Darnold I would think he would be a good fit here.
I also think the Hawks will resign Geno.
The question to me would be how much they like Howell as a successor?
But I guess if they are nervous about a succession plan maybe they would consider Darnold who is a younger than Geno.
Maybe, but to me I think Geno will be back. Grubb is the ? IMO (and to a lesser degree Howell)
Wow ... An at least 12-win team going to move on to the rookie! Amazing.
That would be surprising to me... but who knows.
One thing for sure Joe said is right, the NFL with the salary cap is always entertaining and intriguing year round.
I'll be interested to see what happens there. But even with McCarthy I just feel like they will go the Baker Mayfield route. That is kind of one of the upsides to finding a Geno or Baker or Darnold is you can keep them for cheap.
I'll keep an eye on it!
Thanks … no worries.
Great to see a Sam Howell supporter out there! I don’t know what will happen with him but I think it was a good move to get him and hope that he continues to develop!
No way I’m crushing him after one half of one game of football.
Right … so there is no proof that JS was going to trade Geno.
John at private dinner can say exactly what he thinks. He was at a dinner (mike Mac was there) and about 8 others. Why would he lie? He went out of his way to say it.
When Greg Bell asked him what the long term plan is at QB? JS was (upset) and basically laughed … like what in the world are you talking about?
If you have a feeling that he wanted to trade him … great. But all the actions and what actually happened show that it was never the case.
People believe many things - no skin off my back. Believe whatever you want to believe. But there is no proof and it’s a common narrative around some Seahawks parts that tend to view Geno negatively and have for years no matter what happens. Not saying that’s you - I don’t know.
I definitely think the Hawks and JS like Howell. I like Howell. But it is a shot. Most QBs won’t make it. That’s just the reality. I’m not counting Howell out at all … let the guy develop. But remember he also won’t be that cheap soon as next year is his last year on the rookie deal.
I also think they need to change/tweak the offense for Howell. Looking at Baker is a great idea. Not many are pocket passers like Geno.
Anyways, the most likely plan to me is the most obvious one. Geno is extended on a similar contract to the one he is on now and they keep trying to grow with Sam Howell. Present, short term, long term is all right there.
Go Hawks
"Did I suggest in any way that John was lying at that private dinner? I did not. Stop making stuff up to support your narrative."
This comment just doesn't make any sense. I am letting you know what JS said. Take it or leave it. I don't care.
"Regarding Geno, weeks were going by where John refused to commit to Geno as our starter. Even Coach Macdonald was lukewarm in his Geno comments. During one interview Coach Macdonald was asked about Geno and he actually deflected to make positive comments about Lock."
This is because Geno Smith was under contract and they were trying to sign Drew Lock
"John was also wrangling Genos contract to make it easier to move him. Bringing down the cost for the other team."
This was to bring down the cap hit for the Seahawks and is a simple lever in his contract. Nothing to see.
"All of this was being reported in the local media over weeks with a emphasis on the strangeness of it all. Apparently you were not paying attention. Your comment on the main story being John courting Lock falls hollow to me. I read and follow everything in the local media and there was no such story. At all. The main story for weeks was the incongruity of John refusing to acknowledge Geno as the starter. Facts. The media was all over it."
I was paying very close attention. I guess I should believe every narrative the media says to me? But that is not what I do. I understand that it is hard to go against the grain. But especially in the internet era, the media becomes an echo chamber and follows the herd.
My opinion: JS told Mike Mac that he wants to keep Lock and keep developing him so talk about him in all media conferences. Lock saw right through this and knew that Geno's place on the team was rock solid. So he left for the Giants even though they have a higher paid QB he knew that he had a better path to start at the Giants than the Hawks. Both of these show the stability in the building with Geno.
"I believe John was negotiating with a team but their offer fell flat, probably because John wants a 1st rd pick and that wasn't on the table. So after that fell through, John and Coach immediately embraced the inevitable and put on happy faces regarding Geno. As they should, Geno is a Dude and deserves respect. As a addendum, I believe Lock was turned off by what he perceived happening behind the scenes regarding Geno and decided to bolt to N.Y. What I mean specifically is that Geno and Lock are probably kinda tight, and Lock didn't want to acquire the QB job in a way that would have felt less than honorable, and put shade on the friendship he had with Geno. Hence Lock takes off for N.Y. without even consulting first with John. And we all know how highly John thinks of Lock. John was probably assuming that Lock was in like the flynn. But the backroom maneuvering was the wildcard that drove Lock off."
I guess its possible. But Pro athletes are generally like the rest of us just hyper competitive. I don't think Lock is acting in any sort of altruistic way. I think he knew Geno was the starter and he chose a franchise with a QB on the hot seat.
Couple other notes:
- Seahawks pay out Geno's bonus well before the deadline.
- The Lock talk immediately stops when he leaves. When they sign Howell? There is no Howell talk. JS squashes it within 1 hour of a Schefter tweet.
- The same media that spins this story has told you the Hawks will draft a QB in 2022, then in 2023, then in 2024. They were wrong, wrong, and wrong. How often are they dead wrong before one starts looking at what is right?
- John Boyle's post draft article didn't even have a QB on their big board at 5. It was either Will Anderson or Spoon. This was after their big dog and pony show they put on visiting QBs. They were never drafting a QB and they knew it. Compare that to the Falcons this year who wouldn't even show up to Penix' pro day for fear of tipping their hand. Or the stories of the Chiefs and Patty mahomes. When a team really wants something they show the least interest possible.
Once again, believe whatever you want to believe. But I am very careful to what public figures say to the public and prefer to watch their actions. Obviously, I have some inside knowledge, but in general most of what has happened is public info.
The big problem I see with the media is that they start with an opinion that is off base which causes a domino affect where they are constantly confused by the Seahawks. They start from a place where they think Geno Smith is not the answer at QB which leads them down rabbit holes. If you start from a place that Geno Smith is really good and the Hawks love him - then all of their moves and public comments make perfect sense.
Your life choose whatever you want to believe. I don't care. But the information is out there if you want to take a fresh look.
Agreed. The Anti-Grubb bandwagon is way too full these days.