I like the Chargers, don’t really believe in the Broncos, and suspect that the Chiefs have problems. Looking at the Raiders’ schedule, 7-8 wins coming off a 4-13 season is not an unreasonable hope and would actually be encouraging.
That Chargers defense... Wow. That was impressive.
Granted Geno and Chip need to get in the film room together. But still came away extremely impressed with their connectedness on defense and Derwin James looks like a guy.
Chargers might make some noise this season we will see.
The energy is Vegas is great right now. Tough game. It has been really interesting following their offseason. That fan base is the opposite of the Seahawks. They expect things to go wrong. So when Geno came out and diced up the Patriots, the whole town was buzzing. Huge turnout for MNF.
If they sniff the playoffs Pete and Geno might get a statue built. I think they have only been to the playoffs maybe once since Rich Gannon? Or something like that.
Fan bases expectations are interesting. I guess part of it is there is still newness for Vegas to even have a team. It's like getting a new franchise, so as you say, expectations aren't the same as in long established teams.
Geno is capable enough to win a playoff game, but as with any QB, the surrounding pieces are important. He won't win one on his own, and very few QB's can do that. Will he get that chance in Vegas? Probably not, but not a zero chance I suppose.
Fanbases are very interesting - you can clearly see it in Seattle.
Mariners fans are overjoyed just to be in position to make the playoffs. This would be how Raiders fans would feel if something clicked this year.
Whereas, Seahawks fans believe they should always make the playoffs. That making the playoffs isn’t good enough. They need to win.
Last Seahawks coach got fired for “just making the playoffs”, a raiders or Mariners coach may have a statue built for “making the playoffs”
In sports, there is always a chance. People always want to talk in absolutes when the reality is the world is a series of probabilities. Especially in sports and football, anything can happen
Pete is like a lot of athletes that believe they still have got it. He had a great run but his relationships are what determines who his coaches will be. They often are disastrous picks
I think it was Brady who felt PC was the “culture builder” the Raiders needed. That’s the only reason I can see it. That, and he can’t afford to wait another year for a job offer at 74.
I have to disagree with your assessment that the 'Hawks have played 2 teams with reasonably good credentials in PIT and SF, when it comes to discussing defensive stats and results vs. their offenses. BOTH teams have substandard WR rooms due to injuries and lack of established NFL-caliber starting talent. In fact, they are currently 2 of the worst WR rooms in the NFL. The Steelers have the oldest QB in the NFL throwing to the likes of DK, Calvin Austin, Roman Wilson, and.... nobody else. SF was hoping and praying Jauan Johnson could come back to play because all they had was Kittle and Ricky Pearsall, who is still an unkown quantity after a mediocre rookie year coming off of the gunshot wound(s). Then Kittle went down after he torched Seattle's defense on the 1st drive on the way to what was looking like a 200yd recieving day, leaving them with JUST Pearsall. THAT ended up being enough to beat the Seahawks helped by Tariq Woolen's 2 mental lapses.
Let's pump the brakes on how good the opponents have been, thus far. They played 2 M.A.S.H. units and got beat by one of them.
I liked the third video. I liked how he broke down the interceptions. First one was a bad throw. He showed another good deep throw so maybe SD just didn't put enough on it. Second one was sort of a busted play. If the line was a little better maybe it would have worked. Then again, their defense was pretty good.
Good to see so many posts. The four letter word "Geno" seems to get the fingers primed for some typing.
If the Seahawks are who they want to be (underdetermined yet) they need to win the next 3 games. They are better than New Orleans in personnel and coaching (I hope) so only a horrible game plan, lack of adjustments, and not showing up to play can lead to a defeat. For Arizona, that will be a stiffer test, but we need to win those. Closer game, and players need to make plays down the stretch. Their TE is a problem that will need to be managed, so hopefully Emmanwori is back to full health in a couple of weeks. Tampa is a strong team, but we have to start beating good teams is we are indeed a challenger. If we only beat crappy or mediocre teams, we're just not a contender. Contenders beat good teams.
So if we are who we want to become, we'll be 4 and 1 in a few weeks. If we're 2 and 3 after losses to AZ and TB, then there is still work to be done.
As to Geno's comments, I think it's just an athlete's way of thinking sometimes. I'm more competitive than everyone else. Is he? More than Mike MacDonald, who can barely contain his exasperation after a loss? More than Leonard Williams, who plays as hard as anyone on the field? More than Spoon? I don't think anyone is more competitive than Spoon. That may be what's in Geno's head, but that doesn't make it true. You can't be singular in football. You need followers to lead. The fact that Geno is ultra-competitive is good and probably is why he plays as tough as he does, and takes losing so personally. That's what competitors do. But he needs to bring people with him, and hopefully he does. You can't create distance between yourself and the team if you want optimal outcomes.
I wish Geno and Pete well. I find it hard to root for any other team, although Indy is a curiosity that that is peaking my interest.
Geno's gone! We got a 3rd round pick, saved 20 million in salary and brought in a better, younger QB. I'm sure the Raiders will appreciate him and his proclivity for picks more than we did!
I think we will see more of the play action scheme with a lead blocking FB , Ouzts opening holes.
Barring injuries, the defense should be top 5. The only worry I have is that we are in the best division in the NFL and a 10 and 7 record might not get us into the playoffs again so we have to play better than 500 in our Division!
Barring major injury (knocks wooden head), are we comfortable with the players we have? I ask because last year we made a couple significant moves on defense when it became clear the new system wasn't working with the personnel in hand. I don't have that sense after two games with the new offense, with the possible exception of WR.
Also, HawkBlogger noted that both of our opponents -- older teams, as it happens -- walked away from playing the 'Hawks with dings and dents, that we're becoming bullies on the field. I'd like to extend that thought, here, to suggest it's one virtue of fielding a young team: young players get hurt less (is that even true? seems reasonable), heal faster, don't have scar tissue built up that can reoffend like Joe Burrow's feet/ankles.
A couple of thoughts….Let’s just take a moment to appreciate that our two primary DTs are in the upper right quadrant of the chart SSJ has for us (best quadrant to be in) as well as both our young DEs (Mafe and Hall). All 4 starting linemen in the top quarter of all of their peers. How awesome in that!
And while the sacks haven’t come yet, moving the QB off the spot where they want to be is really effective at making QBs appearances mediocre.
If our defensive front maintains this, our DBs are gonna have a TON of pics.
Geno? He’s was dead to me before this recent outburst. Now he’s nothing more than hot garbage. Karma is a bitch, and Karma got Geno good last night. I swear he had better games playing for the NY JETS! I love it! Good riddance! I’ve maintained since the Geno trade that Kubiak preferred Darnold for his system. Talk about a win! We upgrade at QB AND save a ton of cash AND get Milroe! Good call Zen 400.
my thoughts on Mafe and Hall… Whe people were tossing around trading for Hendrickson, I pointed out we could potentially extend both Mafe and hall for the price of Hendrickson and without losing any high draft picks.
Interesting article. Murphy III taking the next step. Josh Jobe taking the next step. Leonard Williams hasn't taken a step back. Mafe and Hall are on a new level. JSN is on a new level of excellence and Kupp is still a great possession receiver. But the best news of all is that our number one draft pick is playing well, and even great at times. PFF can fuck off.
Mafe barely slowed down as he swiped the Left Tackles hands away and slipped by the guy like he wasn't there. A Rod is too savvy to give up the sack, but moving him off his spot is half the battle won. Sacks will come, but it's pressure that a defense can more reliably exert, and what makes QB's make mistakes.
Oh, I think Jobe's lockdown play will allow Witherspoon to move around being like a hornet and gumming up the works along with Emanwori will be the way they will go, instead of putting Jobe across from Witherspoon and putting Woolen on the bench. Maybe is they like #1 Darion Kendrick enough at the nickel corner spot to put Woolen on the bench, but that would blow me away. Then look to trade Woolen before the deadline I think.
He started six games last year and played good. Now, he's upped his game. He has ball skills, too, but still, I am with you wanting to see more, but his play demands he get more playing time, even when Witherspoon returns.
I see the ability to play dime packages more often with Emmanwori at ILB/big nick next to Jones, Jobe, Spoon and Woolen at CB and Love and Bryant at safety. 4 DL man
I'm not sure how realistic it would be to get Mafe on his second contract for 15M. Our Guru, SSJ, should have a reasonable idea what the going rate would be for a guy in his prime. In the past, Pete and John would let a guy test the free agent market and then negotiate from there depending on how bad they want the guy. Compensation draft picks are real. But I agree we cannot keep everyone, My eye is on Hall more than Mafe. But I don't trust my eye over JS,
Mafe will be 28, 15 million to 20 million might be doable. Hall is younger and could start stringing sacks together against weaker QBs. 20 million is likely too low for Hall if he has one 10 sack year in the next 2 seasons.
I’m with you, I think both have a good floor, but who has the higher ceiling? Can we afford both? One reason I don’t think Woolen would be a good expenditure of $20+ million is Spoon is right around the corner. Can we tie up both on big contracts and spend a ridiculous amount on the CB room? Same applies to edge room. I think Woolen is very unlikely. Especially with the possibility Jobe is a gem. He can be had for less money and make room for Spoon. There’s also the possibility we get a team friendly contract from Mafe or some other player. Kendrick might continue to develop and be a solid player. I know many people don’t think Bryant will get an extension, but he is very solid and makes smart plays. He made a great effort on DK’s TD. Almost got it, just was a hair too short. I think he might get a two year deal that is team friendly. I m with you, I am glad we have JS making these decisions and glad he is obviously working closely with MM and KK to try and get them the best player combination with the constraints of the cap and draft capital.
I loved this comment from Geno. I have told my friends for years his competitiveness reminds me of Michael Jordan. Some guys are just wired differently, hyper/uber competitive. Michael Jordon can't throw coins without competing against his security guards. He has well documented blow ups in practice and even punched Steve Kerr! People hated Kobe Bryant when he got into the NBA. Well documented beefs with teammates throughout his early career. These people do rub people the wrong way. Some people just can't handle them. I think that is partly what happened. Judging from Brady Henderson's reporting, I bet the front office was divided on Geno.
I do not read Geno as saying he has Michael or Kobe's talents. He is saying that he has their same drive. Which to me, is true. And that drive (Richard Sherman comes to mind) can be abrasive to people because they are constantly trying to win and get better and bring the people around them with them (Michael Jordan said this in the last dance)
And saying that you can't be brash or bold without winning? Sounds like a young Legion of Boom era. There was no team filled with more irrationally confident and competitive people than that team (Geno Smith IS irrationally confident). Who is Richard Sherman, a nobody late round draft pick to talk to Tom Brady and say, "U mad bro?". Did people also hate the brashness of the Legion of Boom? (I don't know .... some people probably did but I loved it)
So, I read that article and thought it was right on the money.
The Seahawks wanted Geno Smith. They offered him a contract which he declined to respond to. That was Plan A. When that didn't work, they pivoted to Darnold.
Obviously, not great timing after the worst game of Geno's second career. But, it seems to confuse people to be both a Geno supporter and a Sam Darnold supporter. I think SD was the best plan in a post Geno world. I think he does offer some added benefit to the fact that if he hits, he will potentially be here longer. So even if I say, I would've kept Geno in a heartbeat over SD, it is not saying that transitioning from Geno to SD is a disaster. I don't believe it is. I think SD is a fine QB that can still get better.
SD is my guy. I was on SD before the Vikings season last year. And he made me look like a genius. The question with SD will linger until the final two games of last year are washed away. Hopefully we can win the division and make the playoffs so SD can show he can play in a big games.
I wonder how long Geno Smith will be a story in Hawks land for the people that don't like him? Complete silence after week 1. Seems like a celebration after week 2. What will the rest of the season hold? I have Sunday Ticket and plan to watch every game since I am a Pete/Geno fan but don't really see the need to talk about it with Hawks fans. The team has moved on.
Onward Hawks! Handle business this Sunday which will lead into an exciting Thursday Night Showdown with the Cards!
I loved Geno and his story. I even bought an “I ain’t write back T shirt.” I’ll root for he and Pete in any game not involving the Seahawks.
Having said that the move to Darnold makes immense sense- similar skill set, younger, cheaper and a draft pick for a bonus. It may not work, but it was a good bet.
I respectively disagree (tough to say after Geno’s worst game on Monday night).
Geno is the most accurate QB in the world. That is his superpower.
To me, the money difference is not significant enough. If Geno were $60 mill a year then sure. But he is $4M more than Darnold.
The age is overplayed. Geno didn’t take a hit for years. I see him playing at a high level for years to come and most starters in 2025 won’t be in a couple years.
Just 4 years ago we traded a similarly talent QB for a kings ransom. Now? Just a third rounder.
I will say this though. The difference between Geno and Sam, in my opinion, becomes smaller on good teams and good situations. If Sam was our QB last year I think we win 5-6 games. But Sam on a good team is probably only about a game difference.
And we have already seen it, definitely think we beat the Niners with Geno. He can handle more offense, read the field better, and is more accurate. Would’ve been the difference in game 1.
But, Sam is fine. We is not a bad QB. So I think it was plan B and a fine plan. But I don’t think Plan B was better than Plan A. and I think with Geno we would be looking at a Super Bowl potential instead of playoff potential.
I’m not anti Sam and I think he can get better. But just my lousy two cents
I wanted Geno to stay and was in favor of extending him despite SSJ pointing out that was probably not be the best decision given his age/cost. I thought we could win with him. When it became obvious from his refusal to negotiate and wanted out, for me anyway, I don’t want anything more to do with him. I want players who want to be Seahawks and win with the Seahawks. For him to say the Raiders want to win more than the Seahawks, and then you look at voluntary OTA and see 100% attendance from the vets, well, you know Geno is bitter and just shoveling BS. To hell with Geno, to hell with DK! (Not Kendrick) They are just amusement value going forward.
He's not a leader and is foundering about realizing this, as it becomes obvious this second time around. When a team has had enough of a QB, it will show in their play. Bad juju brewing in Vegas. My bet is Pete would love to give the Colt's Robinson a shot.
If you go to your employer and ask what the vision is for your future ... and he responds and says "I can't help you" (or whatever JS said in the 2024 offseason).
What would you do? Do you want to stay and work for that organization? Or do you start looking elsewhere? Do you want to be valued at your job? In DKs situation, do you want your input heard?
Myles Garret asked to leave.
Jakobi Meyers asked to leave.
DK Metcalf has asked to leave for years.
This happens all the time in the NFL. Doesn't mean you ship the guy out. Both Myles Garret and Jakobi Meyers are playing at a high level for their respective teams.
I have no ill will for employees seeking the best situation for themselves no matter where they are employed.
If the front office wanted Geno here, he would be here. He was under contract. So I wish they would just own up to it instead of blaming the player. But I get that it is politics.
At this point though, it's all water under the bridge. I like JS, I like SD, I like DK, I like Geno ... Sometimes things just don't work out. Could be someone's fault or could just be that time.
That’s not what JS said to Geno, he made him an offer that was not too far from the offer he got with them Raiders. He would not have made an offer for tens of millions if he wasn’t prepared to stick with Geno. It was Geno who never bothered to counter that offer. Why? Because he wanted to play for PC. He wanted out. Those kinds of players are dead to me. I loved DK playing poorly, dropping passes, and I loved Geno playing poorly throwing INTs. I don’t begrudge you wanting the best for Geno and DK, but I’m enjoying the Steelers realization that Oh my, this is all DK can do? And now the Raiders discovering Geno’s tendency to hold on to the ball, and throw INTs in the red zone.
Geno also said that" the Seahawks were never his team" and he indicated he didn't like following Dangerruss because he didn't feel like he could do all the great things did. He said the Hawks made him a decent offer but h e wanted to play for Pete and now he "has his own team". And they have him, for better or worse. There is no doubt of his arm talent and accuracy but his decision making is what has been his downfall at the most critical times of games.
And we have a team of players who are very happy to be Seahawks. I m glad we got rid of those who can’t recognize what they gave up. I believe the Seahawks are far more likely to be in the Super Bowl before Pittsburgh or Las Vegas. And if all you care about is the money, then you deserve what’s coming your way.
"Smith says he wanted to remain in Seattle for the long term even though his biggest supporter was no longer in the building. At the same time, he wanted clarity on his future.
Before the start of the 2024 season, Smith said he had a one-on-one conversation with Seahawks general manager John Schneider about the direction of the organization. Smith expressed a desire for a new deal. He had two years left on the three-year, $75 million contract he signed in March 2023.
"I think that's a fair question to ask anybody," Smith said. "They didn't have a definitive answer. ... It was kind of up in the air. And so for me, going into the [2024] season, I was like, 'OK, well, this may be my last season here.' I literally had a playlist called 'The Last Dance.' I wanted to go out there and give it my all for my teammates." "
"At this rate, it’s going to be very interesting to find out how JSN feels about Seattle’s rule to not extend players when they have multiple years left on the contract; JSN will be extension eligible in 2026, but won’t be a free agent until 2028, assuming that the Seahawks pick up his fifth-year option."
Also you can see Geno's whole quote in my above comment. It was not just about contract it was about clarity. Which I think any person who is on a team with new leadership coming in should ask that question.
I had forgotten the broad range of emotions that are associated with watching Geno play against a stout defense. He is still absolutely capable of throwing dimes into tight windows one play, and then taking a seemingly avoidable sack (or throwing a red zone pick) the next. Watching him play for the Raiders definitely alleviated multiple layers of team-related stress so I feel a bit more objective about Geno’s performance. When he’s on, he’s a joy to watch. But… it’s just that much further to fall when he throws the inevitable red zone interception.
And, trying to remain objective, I much prefer the current Sam Donaldson-related stress to the previous Geno stress. I’d rather see consistent “good-ness” than “awesome highs immediately followed by soul crushing lows.” It’s better for my emotional wellbeing…😏
The only thing I would say is ... is that the QB or is that the system?
Darnold is playing with a better line, a better coordinator, a better run game, and a better defense. He is not asked to do what Geno Smith is asked to do. Which is a good thing.
If Geno played that well in bad system last year... how well would he have played in a good system this year? I think we would be 2-0 right now.
Last night's game was horrible from Geno... Sam Darnold had three similar games last year and two of them with the division and playoffs on the line.
But I get your point! Watching Geno Smith is not for the faint of heart! There will be some picks thrown. The key is just can you hit the big plays to counter the picks? Last night no. Darnold did counter 2 picks on Sunday with big plays.
24 hours I’m ago I bet 95% of Raiders nation couldn’t understand how they got Geno and what Seahawks fans were divided over. On Tuesday morning that number was probably halved.
It is natural to want to win. So Seahawks fans want to have "won" the Geno trade, and I believe we did. We killed the trade if Milroe develops into a starter, but we won it on Cap and youth, too. I wasn't rooting for Geno to fail, but his failures did look familiar, and make us look like we won the trade. And that's just natural.
I guess I am just in the win-win camp. If he was in the same division, yeah, that would be different. But he isn't even in the same conference. And he is paired up with my legendary head coach, who I think has had a profound impact on coaching at all levels in all sports.
So, I am rooting hard for them. To me, its fun to have multiple teams to root for (also looking for Penix to succeed in Atlanta). And, obviously, rooting for the Seahawks. A win-win is a possible outcome.
Finally, wouldn't it be great theater to meet in the Super Bowl?
It'll be great theatre if the Seahawks even go to the Super Bowl. I like the way Darnold stands tall in the pocket, though he looks like he has a stick up his spine or something, but I'm getting used to that. He can see the field better than anyone we have had in a long time. He's really accurate when standing in one place. Not bad at touch passes, too. He'll only get better I think. I'm more concerned with our OC. I want to have faith, but that first stinker followed by better use of play action, but not enough, and not enough keeping it on a naked bootleg. No one believes he'll do it at this point.
I think it's too steep for the Chiefs to climb out of it. Like yeah, obviously don't count them out, but it's a really untalented team on offense with a couple of exceptions.
So much went right for them last year, eventually you will lose some of those nip-and-tuck close games. Last year they won all of them, a couple through what appeared to be acts of God. It will be tough for them, especially in that division, but I will never count out Andy Reid. The guy just finds ways. And his QB's not bad either.
0-2 is not too steep a hole for a good team to climb out of. Thing is, good teams don’t start 0-2. To me, the KC front office is where PCJS were in the mid-teens: In the end, Russell/Patrick will figure something out no matter what we do. I can’t think of an instance where this has actually worked.
Will Geno Smith ever win a playoff game in his career?
Probably not, unless he gets signed as a backup for a super team in a couple years and has to fill in.
Any QB that throws into double coverage as much as he he does … no
I'd take 4-1 ... 20% chance.
Tough division though as the Chargers looked excellent last night. And you still have Chiefs and Broncos.
I like the Chargers, don’t really believe in the Broncos, and suspect that the Chiefs have problems. Looking at the Raiders’ schedule, 7-8 wins coming off a 4-13 season is not an unreasonable hope and would actually be encouraging.
That Chargers defense... Wow. That was impressive.
Granted Geno and Chip need to get in the film room together. But still came away extremely impressed with their connectedness on defense and Derwin James looks like a guy.
Chargers might make some noise this season we will see.
Completely agree with the division takes.
Hoping for a winning season from the Raiders but your point is realistic.
His best asset right now is Pete. But how big is that window?
2-4 more years, IMO
The energy is Vegas is great right now. Tough game. It has been really interesting following their offseason. That fan base is the opposite of the Seahawks. They expect things to go wrong. So when Geno came out and diced up the Patriots, the whole town was buzzing. Huge turnout for MNF.
If they sniff the playoffs Pete and Geno might get a statue built. I think they have only been to the playoffs maybe once since Rich Gannon? Or something like that.
Fan bases expectations are interesting. I guess part of it is there is still newness for Vegas to even have a team. It's like getting a new franchise, so as you say, expectations aren't the same as in long established teams.
Geno is capable enough to win a playoff game, but as with any QB, the surrounding pieces are important. He won't win one on his own, and very few QB's can do that. Will he get that chance in Vegas? Probably not, but not a zero chance I suppose.
Fanbases are very interesting - you can clearly see it in Seattle.
Mariners fans are overjoyed just to be in position to make the playoffs. This would be how Raiders fans would feel if something clicked this year.
Whereas, Seahawks fans believe they should always make the playoffs. That making the playoffs isn’t good enough. They need to win.
Last Seahawks coach got fired for “just making the playoffs”, a raiders or Mariners coach may have a statue built for “making the playoffs”
In sports, there is always a chance. People always want to talk in absolutes when the reality is the world is a series of probabilities. Especially in sports and football, anything can happen
Life is just a series of probabilities. I'm totally using (stealing?) that.
Geno may never sniff another playoff game in his career, let alone win one.
Not looking good this year and he will be 35 next year
Still saying the same thing after multiple INT games about he needs to get better and that he will. I'm still waiting.
No, and he will have a tough time finding a team once PC is gone. This is his last hurrah …
I’m amazed that Pete chose this path for the end of his career.
Pete is like a lot of athletes that believe they still have got it. He had a great run but his relationships are what determines who his coaches will be. They often are disastrous picks
Coaches gotta coach and beggars can’t be choosers. Plus, the Raiders have two winning seasons in 23 years. It’s not like Pete can fail.
I think it was Brady who felt PC was the “culture builder” the Raiders needed. That’s the only reason I can see it. That, and he can’t afford to wait another year for a job offer at 74.
I have to disagree with your assessment that the 'Hawks have played 2 teams with reasonably good credentials in PIT and SF, when it comes to discussing defensive stats and results vs. their offenses. BOTH teams have substandard WR rooms due to injuries and lack of established NFL-caliber starting talent. In fact, they are currently 2 of the worst WR rooms in the NFL. The Steelers have the oldest QB in the NFL throwing to the likes of DK, Calvin Austin, Roman Wilson, and.... nobody else. SF was hoping and praying Jauan Johnson could come back to play because all they had was Kittle and Ricky Pearsall, who is still an unkown quantity after a mediocre rookie year coming off of the gunshot wound(s). Then Kittle went down after he torched Seattle's defense on the 1st drive on the way to what was looking like a 200yd recieving day, leaving them with JUST Pearsall. THAT ended up being enough to beat the Seahawks helped by Tariq Woolen's 2 mental lapses.
Let's pump the brakes on how good the opponents have been, thus far. They played 2 M.A.S.H. units and got beat by one of them.
I liked the third video. I liked how he broke down the interceptions. First one was a bad throw. He showed another good deep throw so maybe SD just didn't put enough on it. Second one was sort of a busted play. If the line was a little better maybe it would have worked. Then again, their defense was pretty good.
Good to see so many posts. The four letter word "Geno" seems to get the fingers primed for some typing.
If the Seahawks are who they want to be (underdetermined yet) they need to win the next 3 games. They are better than New Orleans in personnel and coaching (I hope) so only a horrible game plan, lack of adjustments, and not showing up to play can lead to a defeat. For Arizona, that will be a stiffer test, but we need to win those. Closer game, and players need to make plays down the stretch. Their TE is a problem that will need to be managed, so hopefully Emmanwori is back to full health in a couple of weeks. Tampa is a strong team, but we have to start beating good teams is we are indeed a challenger. If we only beat crappy or mediocre teams, we're just not a contender. Contenders beat good teams.
So if we are who we want to become, we'll be 4 and 1 in a few weeks. If we're 2 and 3 after losses to AZ and TB, then there is still work to be done.
As to Geno's comments, I think it's just an athlete's way of thinking sometimes. I'm more competitive than everyone else. Is he? More than Mike MacDonald, who can barely contain his exasperation after a loss? More than Leonard Williams, who plays as hard as anyone on the field? More than Spoon? I don't think anyone is more competitive than Spoon. That may be what's in Geno's head, but that doesn't make it true. You can't be singular in football. You need followers to lead. The fact that Geno is ultra-competitive is good and probably is why he plays as tough as he does, and takes losing so personally. That's what competitors do. But he needs to bring people with him, and hopefully he does. You can't create distance between yourself and the team if you want optimal outcomes.
I wish Geno and Pete well. I find it hard to root for any other team, although Indy is a curiosity that that is peaking my interest.
Geno's gone! We got a 3rd round pick, saved 20 million in salary and brought in a better, younger QB. I'm sure the Raiders will appreciate him and his proclivity for picks more than we did!
I think we will see more of the play action scheme with a lead blocking FB , Ouzts opening holes.
Barring injuries, the defense should be top 5. The only worry I have is that we are in the best division in the NFL and a 10 and 7 record might not get us into the playoffs again so we have to play better than 500 in our Division!
"I’m still worried that the NFL is going to call and say he went out of bounds too quickly."
Yeah, i wondered about that 'n was surprised that this wasn't slo-mo reviewed. whew.
Opening line for the game 7.5.
Whoa … 41.5 over/under!
Lowest total of the week. Now that is saying something.
Was 6.5 before the season. Not an insignificant move through the 7
Markets waking up to Seahawks?
Barring major injury (knocks wooden head), are we comfortable with the players we have? I ask because last year we made a couple significant moves on defense when it became clear the new system wasn't working with the personnel in hand. I don't have that sense after two games with the new offense, with the possible exception of WR.
Also, HawkBlogger noted that both of our opponents -- older teams, as it happens -- walked away from playing the 'Hawks with dings and dents, that we're becoming bullies on the field. I'd like to extend that thought, here, to suggest it's one virtue of fielding a young team: young players get hurt less (is that even true? seems reasonable), heal faster, don't have scar tissue built up that can reoffend like Joe Burrow's feet/ankles.
We did seem to leave a stream of wounded on the battlefield the past 2 weeks. Just like the old days.
A couple of thoughts….Let’s just take a moment to appreciate that our two primary DTs are in the upper right quadrant of the chart SSJ has for us (best quadrant to be in) as well as both our young DEs (Mafe and Hall). All 4 starting linemen in the top quarter of all of their peers. How awesome in that!
And while the sacks haven’t come yet, moving the QB off the spot where they want to be is really effective at making QBs appearances mediocre.
If our defensive front maintains this, our DBs are gonna have a TON of pics.
I swear our “window” is open.
Geno? He’s was dead to me before this recent outburst. Now he’s nothing more than hot garbage. Karma is a bitch, and Karma got Geno good last night. I swear he had better games playing for the NY JETS! I love it! Good riddance! I’ve maintained since the Geno trade that Kubiak preferred Darnold for his system. Talk about a win! We upgrade at QB AND save a ton of cash AND get Milroe! Good call Zen 400.
my thoughts on Mafe and Hall… Whe people were tossing around trading for Hendrickson, I pointed out we could potentially extend both Mafe and hall for the price of Hendrickson and without losing any high draft picks.
This^
Interesting article. Murphy III taking the next step. Josh Jobe taking the next step. Leonard Williams hasn't taken a step back. Mafe and Hall are on a new level. JSN is on a new level of excellence and Kupp is still a great possession receiver. But the best news of all is that our number one draft pick is playing well, and even great at times. PFF can fuck off.
Mafe barely slowed down as he swiped the Left Tackles hands away and slipped by the guy like he wasn't there. A Rod is too savvy to give up the sack, but moving him off his spot is half the battle won. Sacks will come, but it's pressure that a defense can more reliably exert, and what makes QB's make mistakes.
Oh, I think Jobe's lockdown play will allow Witherspoon to move around being like a hornet and gumming up the works along with Emanwori will be the way they will go, instead of putting Jobe across from Witherspoon and putting Woolen on the bench. Maybe is they like #1 Darion Kendrick enough at the nickel corner spot to put Woolen on the bench, but that would blow me away. Then look to trade Woolen before the deadline I think.
I have to see Jobe play well for more than a few games before I believe in him.
He started six games last year and played good. Now, he's upped his game. He has ball skills, too, but still, I am with you wanting to see more, but his play demands he get more playing time, even when Witherspoon returns.
I see the ability to play dime packages more often with Emmanwori at ILB/big nick next to Jones, Jobe, Spoon and Woolen at CB and Love and Bryant at safety. 4 DL man
Sure, and with two guys to move around, MM should be chomping at the bit to get both of them back.
We will probably not be able to extend everyone, but we shall see!
I'm not sure how realistic it would be to get Mafe on his second contract for 15M. Our Guru, SSJ, should have a reasonable idea what the going rate would be for a guy in his prime. In the past, Pete and John would let a guy test the free agent market and then negotiate from there depending on how bad they want the guy. Compensation draft picks are real. But I agree we cannot keep everyone, My eye is on Hall more than Mafe. But I don't trust my eye over JS,
Mafe will be 28, 15 million to 20 million might be doable. Hall is younger and could start stringing sacks together against weaker QBs. 20 million is likely too low for Hall if he has one 10 sack year in the next 2 seasons.
I’m with you, I think both have a good floor, but who has the higher ceiling? Can we afford both? One reason I don’t think Woolen would be a good expenditure of $20+ million is Spoon is right around the corner. Can we tie up both on big contracts and spend a ridiculous amount on the CB room? Same applies to edge room. I think Woolen is very unlikely. Especially with the possibility Jobe is a gem. He can be had for less money and make room for Spoon. There’s also the possibility we get a team friendly contract from Mafe or some other player. Kendrick might continue to develop and be a solid player. I know many people don’t think Bryant will get an extension, but he is very solid and makes smart plays. He made a great effort on DK’s TD. Almost got it, just was a hair too short. I think he might get a two year deal that is team friendly. I m with you, I am glad we have JS making these decisions and glad he is obviously working closely with MM and KK to try and get them the best player combination with the constraints of the cap and draft capital.
Cross is turning into an elite LT. I wish they would just get a deal done, and lock him down and keep him for 15 years.
I loved this comment from Geno. I have told my friends for years his competitiveness reminds me of Michael Jordan. Some guys are just wired differently, hyper/uber competitive. Michael Jordon can't throw coins without competing against his security guards. He has well documented blow ups in practice and even punched Steve Kerr! People hated Kobe Bryant when he got into the NBA. Well documented beefs with teammates throughout his early career. These people do rub people the wrong way. Some people just can't handle them. I think that is partly what happened. Judging from Brady Henderson's reporting, I bet the front office was divided on Geno.
I do not read Geno as saying he has Michael or Kobe's talents. He is saying that he has their same drive. Which to me, is true. And that drive (Richard Sherman comes to mind) can be abrasive to people because they are constantly trying to win and get better and bring the people around them with them (Michael Jordan said this in the last dance)
And saying that you can't be brash or bold without winning? Sounds like a young Legion of Boom era. There was no team filled with more irrationally confident and competitive people than that team (Geno Smith IS irrationally confident). Who is Richard Sherman, a nobody late round draft pick to talk to Tom Brady and say, "U mad bro?". Did people also hate the brashness of the Legion of Boom? (I don't know .... some people probably did but I loved it)
So, I read that article and thought it was right on the money.
The Seahawks wanted Geno Smith. They offered him a contract which he declined to respond to. That was Plan A. When that didn't work, they pivoted to Darnold.
Obviously, not great timing after the worst game of Geno's second career. But, it seems to confuse people to be both a Geno supporter and a Sam Darnold supporter. I think SD was the best plan in a post Geno world. I think he does offer some added benefit to the fact that if he hits, he will potentially be here longer. So even if I say, I would've kept Geno in a heartbeat over SD, it is not saying that transitioning from Geno to SD is a disaster. I don't believe it is. I think SD is a fine QB that can still get better.
SD is my guy. I was on SD before the Vikings season last year. And he made me look like a genius. The question with SD will linger until the final two games of last year are washed away. Hopefully we can win the division and make the playoffs so SD can show he can play in a big games.
I wonder how long Geno Smith will be a story in Hawks land for the people that don't like him? Complete silence after week 1. Seems like a celebration after week 2. What will the rest of the season hold? I have Sunday Ticket and plan to watch every game since I am a Pete/Geno fan but don't really see the need to talk about it with Hawks fans. The team has moved on.
Onward Hawks! Handle business this Sunday which will lead into an exciting Thursday Night Showdown with the Cards!
I loved Geno and his story. I even bought an “I ain’t write back T shirt.” I’ll root for he and Pete in any game not involving the Seahawks.
Having said that the move to Darnold makes immense sense- similar skill set, younger, cheaper and a draft pick for a bonus. It may not work, but it was a good bet.
I respectively disagree (tough to say after Geno’s worst game on Monday night).
Geno is the most accurate QB in the world. That is his superpower.
To me, the money difference is not significant enough. If Geno were $60 mill a year then sure. But he is $4M more than Darnold.
The age is overplayed. Geno didn’t take a hit for years. I see him playing at a high level for years to come and most starters in 2025 won’t be in a couple years.
Just 4 years ago we traded a similarly talent QB for a kings ransom. Now? Just a third rounder.
I will say this though. The difference between Geno and Sam, in my opinion, becomes smaller on good teams and good situations. If Sam was our QB last year I think we win 5-6 games. But Sam on a good team is probably only about a game difference.
And we have already seen it, definitely think we beat the Niners with Geno. He can handle more offense, read the field better, and is more accurate. Would’ve been the difference in game 1.
But, Sam is fine. We is not a bad QB. So I think it was plan B and a fine plan. But I don’t think Plan B was better than Plan A. and I think with Geno we would be looking at a Super Bowl potential instead of playoff potential.
I’m not anti Sam and I think he can get better. But just my lousy two cents
I wanted Geno to stay and was in favor of extending him despite SSJ pointing out that was probably not be the best decision given his age/cost. I thought we could win with him. When it became obvious from his refusal to negotiate and wanted out, for me anyway, I don’t want anything more to do with him. I want players who want to be Seahawks and win with the Seahawks. For him to say the Raiders want to win more than the Seahawks, and then you look at voluntary OTA and see 100% attendance from the vets, well, you know Geno is bitter and just shoveling BS. To hell with Geno, to hell with DK! (Not Kendrick) They are just amusement value going forward.
He's not a leader and is foundering about realizing this, as it becomes obvious this second time around. When a team has had enough of a QB, it will show in their play. Bad juju brewing in Vegas. My bet is Pete would love to give the Colt's Robinson a shot.
If you go to your employer and ask what the vision is for your future ... and he responds and says "I can't help you" (or whatever JS said in the 2024 offseason).
What would you do? Do you want to stay and work for that organization? Or do you start looking elsewhere? Do you want to be valued at your job? In DKs situation, do you want your input heard?
Myles Garret asked to leave.
Jakobi Meyers asked to leave.
DK Metcalf has asked to leave for years.
This happens all the time in the NFL. Doesn't mean you ship the guy out. Both Myles Garret and Jakobi Meyers are playing at a high level for their respective teams.
I have no ill will for employees seeking the best situation for themselves no matter where they are employed.
If the front office wanted Geno here, he would be here. He was under contract. So I wish they would just own up to it instead of blaming the player. But I get that it is politics.
At this point though, it's all water under the bridge. I like JS, I like SD, I like DK, I like Geno ... Sometimes things just don't work out. Could be someone's fault or could just be that time.
That’s not what JS said to Geno, he made him an offer that was not too far from the offer he got with them Raiders. He would not have made an offer for tens of millions if he wasn’t prepared to stick with Geno. It was Geno who never bothered to counter that offer. Why? Because he wanted to play for PC. He wanted out. Those kinds of players are dead to me. I loved DK playing poorly, dropping passes, and I loved Geno playing poorly throwing INTs. I don’t begrudge you wanting the best for Geno and DK, but I’m enjoying the Steelers realization that Oh my, this is all DK can do? And now the Raiders discovering Geno’s tendency to hold on to the ball, and throw INTs in the red zone.
Geno also said that" the Seahawks were never his team" and he indicated he didn't like following Dangerruss because he didn't feel like he could do all the great things did. He said the Hawks made him a decent offer but h e wanted to play for Pete and now he "has his own team". And they have him, for better or worse. There is no doubt of his arm talent and accuracy but his decision making is what has been his downfall at the most critical times of games.
And we have a team of players who are very happy to be Seahawks. I m glad we got rid of those who can’t recognize what they gave up. I believe the Seahawks are far more likely to be in the Super Bowl before Pittsburgh or Las Vegas. And if all you care about is the money, then you deserve what’s coming your way.
"Smith says he wanted to remain in Seattle for the long term even though his biggest supporter was no longer in the building. At the same time, he wanted clarity on his future.
Before the start of the 2024 season, Smith said he had a one-on-one conversation with Seahawks general manager John Schneider about the direction of the organization. Smith expressed a desire for a new deal. He had two years left on the three-year, $75 million contract he signed in March 2023.
"I think that's a fair question to ask anybody," Smith said. "They didn't have a definitive answer. ... It was kind of up in the air. And so for me, going into the [2024] season, I was like, 'OK, well, this may be my last season here.' I literally had a playlist called 'The Last Dance.' I wanted to go out there and give it my all for my teammates." "
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46256830/las-vegas-raiders-quarterback-geno-smith-monday-night-football-chargers-2025
I am talking about the 2024 offseason not 2025.
Ah, but in 24 Geno still had 2 years on his contract, and he was told to wait until the following year per the way Seahawks handle extensions.
Oh yes ... The "Paul Allen Rule"
Interesting note from today's article:
"At this rate, it’s going to be very interesting to find out how JSN feels about Seattle’s rule to not extend players when they have multiple years left on the contract; JSN will be extension eligible in 2026, but won’t be a free agent until 2028, assuming that the Seahawks pick up his fifth-year option."
Also you can see Geno's whole quote in my above comment. It was not just about contract it was about clarity. Which I think any person who is on a team with new leadership coming in should ask that question.
I had forgotten the broad range of emotions that are associated with watching Geno play against a stout defense. He is still absolutely capable of throwing dimes into tight windows one play, and then taking a seemingly avoidable sack (or throwing a red zone pick) the next. Watching him play for the Raiders definitely alleviated multiple layers of team-related stress so I feel a bit more objective about Geno’s performance. When he’s on, he’s a joy to watch. But… it’s just that much further to fall when he throws the inevitable red zone interception.
And, trying to remain objective, I much prefer the current Sam Donaldson-related stress to the previous Geno stress. I’d rather see consistent “good-ness” than “awesome highs immediately followed by soul crushing lows.” It’s better for my emotional wellbeing…😏
That is fair.
The only thing I would say is ... is that the QB or is that the system?
Darnold is playing with a better line, a better coordinator, a better run game, and a better defense. He is not asked to do what Geno Smith is asked to do. Which is a good thing.
If Geno played that well in bad system last year... how well would he have played in a good system this year? I think we would be 2-0 right now.
Last night's game was horrible from Geno... Sam Darnold had three similar games last year and two of them with the division and playoffs on the line.
But I get your point! Watching Geno Smith is not for the faint of heart! There will be some picks thrown. The key is just can you hit the big plays to counter the picks? Last night no. Darnold did counter 2 picks on Sunday with big plays.
Anyways great comment!
24 hours I’m ago I bet 95% of Raiders nation couldn’t understand how they got Geno and what Seahawks fans were divided over. On Tuesday morning that number was probably halved.
I don’t get either the Geno hate or the Geno love. In ten years, he’ll be as remembered as Jake Delhomme is today.
NY Jets Geno is back! 37QBR rating!
"I loved this comment from Geno" -- We know!
Gotta respect the loyalty
It is natural to want to win. So Seahawks fans want to have "won" the Geno trade, and I believe we did. We killed the trade if Milroe develops into a starter, but we won it on Cap and youth, too. I wasn't rooting for Geno to fail, but his failures did look familiar, and make us look like we won the trade. And that's just natural.
Cap, youth, draft pick for a QB in the same tier: no brainer we won the trade.
I was actually rooting for Geno to succeed last night but after the 3rd INT I turned the game off and went to read my SSJ daily post. Go SSJ!!!
Fair point.
I guess I am just in the win-win camp. If he was in the same division, yeah, that would be different. But he isn't even in the same conference. And he is paired up with my legendary head coach, who I think has had a profound impact on coaching at all levels in all sports.
So, I am rooting hard for them. To me, its fun to have multiple teams to root for (also looking for Penix to succeed in Atlanta). And, obviously, rooting for the Seahawks. A win-win is a possible outcome.
Finally, wouldn't it be great theater to meet in the Super Bowl?
It'll be great theatre if the Seahawks even go to the Super Bowl. I like the way Darnold stands tall in the pocket, though he looks like he has a stick up his spine or something, but I'm getting used to that. He can see the field better than anyone we have had in a long time. He's really accurate when standing in one place. Not bad at touch passes, too. He'll only get better I think. I'm more concerned with our OC. I want to have faith, but that first stinker followed by better use of play action, but not enough, and not enough keeping it on a naked bootleg. No one believes he'll do it at this point.
On another subject. A few posts (substacks?) ago, SSJ discussed teams that started the year 0-2. Look at who is 0-2 in the AFC West.
I think it's too steep for the Chiefs to climb out of it. Like yeah, obviously don't count them out, but it's a really untalented team on offense with a couple of exceptions.
So much went right for them last year, eventually you will lose some of those nip-and-tuck close games. Last year they won all of them, a couple through what appeared to be acts of God. It will be tough for them, especially in that division, but I will never count out Andy Reid. The guy just finds ways. And his QB's not bad either.
0-2 is not too steep a hole for a good team to climb out of. Thing is, good teams don’t start 0-2. To me, the KC front office is where PCJS were in the mid-teens: In the end, Russell/Patrick will figure something out no matter what we do. I can’t think of an instance where this has actually worked.
"Looks like the Seahawks called six play-action passes,"
Some more info on play action numbers, from PFF Premium:
12 DB, 6-10-120 12.0 YPA, 1 TD, 2 INT, 2 BAT, 7 Pressures, 2 sacks, 2.62 TTT, 5 1st Downs, 95.8 rating.
Thanks!