The Seahawks’ two game winning streak came to a halt on the road today against NFC west rivals, the St. Louis Rams, with another close score of 19-13.
The Seahawks offense appeared to make a statement today, finally getting a score drive together in the first series of the opening half. Russell Wilson spread the ball around, hooking up with both wide receivers Sydney Rice and Golden Tate to get the ball moving toward the Rams’ end zone. Running back Marshawn Lynch finally got the push we have all been waiting for and scored an 18 yard touchdown, dragging not only the ball, but the Rams’ defender into the end zone as well.
It was all down hill from there.
Seattle’s defense seemingly left mid field open for the taking. Ram’s quarterback Sam Bradford used this to his advantage, converting numerous 3rd and long plays that should have been an easy stop. Richard Sherman did have a nice pick in the first quarter that appeared to be a miscue between Bradford and his receiver, but the Seahawks offense could not capitalize on any red zone opportunities.
St Louis’ rookie kicker Greg Zuerlein had some amazing shots today, breaking two franchise records for the Rams in the same game with one kick from 58 yards out and another from 60 yards.
On top of the long distance kicks, Fischer’s Rams’ put up a smoke a mirrors act, using a field goal opportunity to fake a pass into the right corner of the end zone, where wide receiver Danny Amendola waited uncovered by the defense and scored St. Louis’ go ahead touchdown.
Seattle would spend the rest of the game trying to even the score and just be out of reach by three points till the end. Wilson had a fit of bad luck today, throwing three interceptions, none that could honestly be his fault entirely. One of the picks was a hit out of his hands, while others bobbled in and out of receivers hands or just unfortunate timing.
With time running out, Seattle had one last shot at the end zone to steal another game away from an opposing team. With both Lynch and Turbin coming in hot to this game, it appeared that the Hawks were going to accomplish a legitimate win against the NFC rivals. Wilson dumped the ball of to Lynch who worked his legs and power down the field, helping to convert a few first downs and keep the Seahawks’ hopes alive. Wilson hit Baldwin on a route that assisted in moving them closer to victory. On 1st and 10 on the Rams’ 40 yard line, Wilson dropped back and launched a bullet to tight end Anthony McCoy, who unfortunately lost his footing and slipped on his route. Lying in wait, Rams’ corner Bradley Fletcher intercepted Wilson’s pass and ultimately ending any chance of Seattle’s amazing comeback story part two.
With Wilson’s ability already being called into question, it is my opinion that the rookie needs more time to adjust on the field rather than just give up on him. The difference between Matt Flynn and Wilson is that the rookie can make plays with his feet and extend drives longer than most would expect.
My analysis? Wilson needs to trust his protection a bit more. He has a tendency to roll out of the pocket earlier than needed. Wilson should learn to step up into the pocket and use that to open up passing lanes, instead of moving on his own. All and all, there was an impression at the beginning of this season that we would be building and working with the rookie and I’m allowing a lot more time for the franchise to develop its future. Time will tell what Carroll will do with the Wilson and Flynn situation. My hope is we don’t give up on him to early.
Original Story:
http://seattlesportsnut.com/seahawks-...
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October 01, 2012
