Tag: Seahawks Week 4

Lions QB Jared Goff wins NFC Player of the Week honor for showing vs. Seahawks

Lions QB Jared Goff wins NFC Player of the Week honor for showing vs. Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks had a difficult time stopping the Detroit Lions in their Week 4 primetime 42-29 defeat. Lions starting quarterback Jared Goff completed a perfect 18-of-18 passing attempts for 292 yards, two touchdowns, and zero interceptions. Goff actually set the record for the most passing attempts without an incompletion in a single game in NFL history.

Goff also caught a touchdown via the trick play previously known as “The Philly Special.” Goff has since been named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his efforts.

The Lions racked up just 389 yards of total offense, but they were extremely efficient. All 42 points occurred via the offense, meaning Seattle’s defense failed to register many stops. The Lions only faced six third downs throughout the entire game, and they completed 50% of them (3-of-6).

The Lions were well-balanced, scoring three rushing touchdowns and three passing touchdowns. The Seahawks entered Monday’s contest allowing just 14.3 points per game. That number rose exponentially to 21.3. The Seahawks hadn’t allowed 40-plus points since Week 13 of the 2023 season, when they were defeated 41-35 by the Dallas Cowboys.

It’s worth acknowledging the Seahawks were without five key defensive players, including Uchenna Nwosu, Boye Mafe, Leonard Williams, Byron Murphy II, and Jerome Baker. Congratulations to Goff nonetheless. It was a historic night.

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The results of Seahawks rotating Bradford, Haynes at RG on MNF

The results of Seahawks rotating Bradford, Haynes at RG on MNF

Seattle Seahawks starting right guard Anthony Bradford has struggled this season. The sophomore blocker entered Monday Night Football’s eventual defeat with the Detroit Lions having been whistled for a league-high seven penalties. Despite that, the Seahawks have stuck by Bradford, explaining that he’s more experienced and pro-ready to handle powerful assignments than rookie option Christian Haynes is.

But with Bradford’s struggles being an ongoing theme, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb decided to test a new theory against the Lions. Bradford and Haynes rotated snaps at right guard. Bradford earned the majority nod, playing 54 total snaps, accounting for 60% of all Seahawks offensive plays. Haynes played a sizable 36 snaps, making up the remaining 40% of the team’s available plays.

Pro Football Focus credited Bradford with allowing just one pressure against a relentless Lions defensive front. Starting quarterback Geno Smith was sacked on three occasions, but Bradford wasn’t assigned blame for any of them.

PFF slapped the former LSU standout with a stellar pass-blocking grade of 66.6, a season-low run-blocking score of 30.8, and an overall offensive grade of 44.7. He finally wasn’t whistled for a penalty for the first time this season.

Haynes allowed one pressure via his limited opportunities. The rookie blocker from UConn had a pass-blocking grade of 67.9, a run-blocking score of 56.9, and an overall offensive grade of 61.8, far better than Bradford’s final grade.

The Seahawks continue to sort through their options at right guard. Indications are it may be a problem-position all campaign long. Haynes and Bradford will attempt to separate themselves ahead of a Week 5 contest versus the uncompetitive New York Giants.

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Seahawks missed key defensive players from first Lions scoring series

Seahawks missed key defensive players from first Lions scoring series

The Seattle Seahawks entered Monday Night Football’s Week 4 date with the Detroit Lions missing several starting defenders through injury. Defensive linemen Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy II, outside linebackers Uchenna Nwosu and Boye Mafe, and off-ball linebacker Jerome Baker were all sidelined. Starting safety Julian Love exited the game with a quad contusion.

The end result was a 42-29 defeat, Seattle’s first loss of the 2024 campaign. Despite being so short handed, Mike Macdonald’s defense began the contest on proper footing. The Lions went three-and-out on their first offensive possession, with defensive tackle Jarran Reed sacking Lions quarterback Jared Goff for a 14-yard loss on 3rd-and-6.

The Seahawks couldn’t muster much offense on the ensuing possession. Geno Smith and the offense also went three-and-out. A 3rd-and-11 pass to DK Metcalf gained just eight yards, prompting Michael Dickson to punt on 4th-and-3. That’s when Seattle’s missing defensive starters had an impact.

The Lions traveled 93 yards on a dominant 12-play scoring drive. Detroit’s offensive line created plenty of push and rushing lanes for David Monthomery and Jahmyr Gibbs to exploit. Mafe was missed on the edges as runs were bounced outside for chunk gains. Williams and Murphy, who typically create interior pocket push, were notably absent.

That drive began with an 11-yard Montgomery run. Goff completed a 10-yard pass to Jameson Williams on 2nd-and-6. A second explosive play arrived via a 17-yard completion to Amon-Ra St. Brown. Montgomery rushed for seven and 13 yards on consecutive plays, and the between-the-tackles back concluded the impressive drive with a one-yard touchdown.

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Seahawks make unfortunate history in MNF loss to Lions

Seahawks make unfortunate history in MNF loss to Lions

The Seattle Seahawks suffered their first defeat of the 2024 season as they were downed 42-29 by the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football in Week 4. The Seahawks were down several defenders due to injury, including Uchenna Nwosu, Leonard Williams, and Boye Mafe. Lions quarterback Jared Goff took full advantage of a shorthanded defense, going a perfect 18-for-18 for 292 yards and two touchdowns. Mike Macdonald’s squad should still be incredibly optimistic moving forward all things considered.

The Seahawks also made some unfortunate history during Monday’s defeat. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb watched his offense convert a startling 38 first downs, compared to Detroit’s 17. Seattle’s 38 first down was the most by a losing team over the last 90 years, according to ESPN’s Stats & Research.

The Seahawks outgained the Lions 516 to 389. Grubb’s offense was also efficient on third and fourth downs, converting 6-of-12 attempts (50%). Seattle only punted on three occasions, and won the time of possession battle 34:04 to 25:56.

Often playing catch up, starting quarterback Geno Smith completed 38-of-56 passing attempts for 395 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Running back Kenneth Walker III returned from injury and rushed for 80 yards and three touchdowns via 12 carries. DK Metcalf surpassed 100 receiving yards, but also lost a fumble.

It was an explosive offensive performance by the Seahawks. Macdonald and Grubb should feel encouraged. The defense was simply too short handed to limit the Lions’ explosive offense.

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Week 4 inactives: Jerome Baker and 6 others will not play on MNF

Week 4 inactives: Jerome Baker and 6 others will not play on MNF

The Seattle Seahawks are headed into a Monday Night Football showdown with the Detroit Lions rather shorthanded. They have already ruled out stud defenders Byron Murphy II, Leonard Williams and Boye Mafe. Unfortunately, it appears linebacker Jerome Baker will be joining them.

The Seahawks will have to face a Lions team desperate to keep pace with the surprisingly 4-0 Minnesota Vikings, and find a way to snap their losing streak to Seattle.

The full inactives list for both teams can be seen below.

Seahawks Inactives:

  • LB Uchenna Nwosu
  • LB Jerome Baker
  • G Sataoa Laumea
  • T Michael Jerrell
  • DT Byron Murphy II
  • DE Leonard Williams

Lions Inactives:

  • DB Brian Branch
  • OL Giovanni Manu
  • C Frank Ragnow
  • WR Isaiah Williams

Be sure to follow @TheSeahawksWire and @KoleMusgrove23 for live updates, analysis and highlights during tonight’s Monday Night Football showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions.

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3 Bold predictions for Seahawks defense vs. Lions in Week 4

3 Bold predictions for Seahawks defense vs. Lions in Week 4

The Seattle Seahawks defense will be shorthanded against the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football. The Seahawks have ruled out some of their top defenders, including Leonard Williams, Boye Mafe, Byron Murphy II, and Uchenna Nwosu. A difficult matchup versus a typically explosive Lions offense awaits.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald must string together a creative defensive game plan. Lions quarterback Jared Goff is capable of taking advantage. We’ve compiled three bold predictions for the defense on Monday.

Seahawks hold Lions under 130 rushing yards

The Lions have a two-headed monster at running back in David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. They’re averaging a fourth-ranked 163 rushing yards per game as a result. While the Seahawks will miss Williams and Murphy at defensive tackle, the Lions will also be without Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow. Jarran Reed and Johntathan Hankins are quality run defenders for the Seahawks, and nose tackle Quinton Bohanna may receive a practice squad call-up.

Derick Hall records a sack

Derick Hall will arguably be the Seahawks’ best pass rusher with both Nwosu and Mafe sidelined on Monday. The sophomore Hall has recorded three sacks in three contests, including a two-sack performance versus the Dolphins. The former Auburn standout will be asked to deliver a step-up-to-the-plate performance.

Julian Love picks off Jared Goff

Goff has thrown four interceptions throughout 2024 thus far, committing at least one turnover in every game this season. Safety Julian Love has one interception and will be roaming the defensive backfield. Love is capable of exposing Goff’s recklessness.

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3 Bold Predictions for Seahawks QB Geno Smith vs. Lions

3 Bold Predictions for Seahawks QB Geno Smith vs. Lions

Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Geno Smith off to a phenomenal start in 2024 under the guidance of first-year offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. Smith completed 26 of 34 passing attempts for 289 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in last Sunday’s dominant Week 3 victory over the Miami Dolphins.

We’ve compiled three bold predictions for Smith against a difficult Detroit Lions defense on Monday.

Smith throws for 300+ yards

Smith threw for 327 yards in a Week 2 overtime victory over the New England Patriots. The former West Virginia standout nearly surpassed 300 yards against the Dolphins for a second consecutive week (289). The Lions are allowing a 12th-worst 216.7 passing yards per contest.

Smith throws 2+ TDs

Despite placing below league-average in passing yards, the Lions have only allowed three touchdowns through the air. Monday’s primetime contest could be a shootout, however. With Lions defensive back Brian Branch doubtful, Smith could throw a pair of touchdowns to the likes of DK Metcalf and Noah Fant.

Geno Smith plays a turnover-free game

Smith has thrown three interceptions this season, including a season-high two versus the Dolphins, but tcontext is important. Two of his interceptions were largely due to pressure from a collapsing pocket, and the other was tipped at the line of scrimmage. Smith has been accurate while attempting just one turnover-worthy pass, according to Pro Football Focus.
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Seahawks will be missing the following crucial pieces vs. Lions

Seahawks will be missing the following crucial pieces vs. Lions

The Seattle Seahawks face a resume-defining game on Monday night when they face the Detroit Lions. The undefeated Seahawks have enjoyed a soft schedule thus far, but Jared Goff and the Lions will offer a significantly stiffer test. Mike Macdonald’s squad will unfortunately be missing several standout players via injury, including the following:

Abe Lucas

Seahawks right tackle Abe Lucas remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. His return to play timeline remains unknown. Lucas’ injury became more front-facing for the Seahawks once another injury occurred across the offensive line.

George Fant

George Fant was acquired as insurance at right tackle by John Schneider. Fant has missed several games and will continue being sidelined on Monday with a hamstring injury. He’s ineligible to return until Week 7 against the Atlanta Falcons. Stone Forsythe will continue starting in his place.

Boye Mafe

Boye Mafe initially injured his knee in the Week 2 victory over the New England Patriots. Mafe participated against the Miami Dolphins the following week and has recorded a sack in every single contest. The Seahawks are now taking a cautious approach with their ascending pass rusher.

Uchenna Nwosu

Uchenna Nwosu suffered a multi-week knee injury in the preseason finale. The Seahawks opted against placing him on IR because the initial belief was he’d return against the Lions on Monday night. That unfortunately didn’t come to fruition, but Macdonald possesses faith that Nwosu will return against the New York Giants next weekend.

Leonard Williams

Leonard Williams exited the victory over the Miami Dolphins with a rib injury. Williams consistently didn’t practice leading up to Monday’s primetime showdown. The Lions will be without Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow. It’s a shame the Seahawks may fail to take advantage of his absence.

Byron Murphy II

Rookie defensive tackle Byron Murphy II is nursing a hamstring injury. The Seahawks will rely on Jarran Reed and Johnathan Hankins in his absence. Quinton Bohanna is a possible practice squad call up.

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Will Seahawks QB Geno Smith keep his hot streak at Ford Field alive?

Will Seahawks QB Geno Smith keep his hot streak at Ford Field alive?

Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback Geno Smith is off to an outstanding start in 2024. Smith currently ranks fourth in the entire league in passing yards (and the two top spots are occupied by Daniel Jones and Dak Prescott, who played on Thursday). He also ranks third in completion percentage (74.8%).

And historically speaking, Smith has been outstanding versus the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, the site of Seattle’s upcoming Week 4 opponent on Monday Night Football. Last season, Smith led the Seahawks to a thrilling 37-31 Week 2 overtime road victory over the Lions by completing 32-of-41 passes for 328 yards and two touchdowns.

In 2022, Smith’s first season as Seattle’s unquestioned starter, the Seahawks won another thriller in Detroit, outlasting the Lions 48-45 in Week 4. Smith completed 23-of-30 passing attempts for 320 yards and two touchdowns. As ESPN’s Brady Henderson noted, those performances rank second- and third-best in terms of QBR since he became Seattle’s starting signal caller.

Henderson asked Smith about his comfort level at Ford Field.

“Winning there against a really good team, I thought it was obviously great for our season,” Smith said, reminiscing on those recent road victories over the Lions. “It’s a new season this year. They’re [Lions defense] doing some new things. We have to play Monday’s game. Those other games don’t matter. It’s just about this one. I’m looking forward to a tremendous opportunity,” Smith said, tempering expectations.

Smith also discussed handling the crowd noise at Ford Field.

“It gets pretty loud,” Smith added. “We handled those situations pretty well [in the past]. I think we’ll be ready for it. There’s something about those environments that just charge you up.”

https://twitter.com/BradyHenderson/status/1839420657656090737

Smith answered the questions with class and grace. He gave credit to the Lions defense and environment, and mentioned a new campaign means new opportunities. But there’s no denying Smith has historically enjoyed big-time performances at Ford Field.

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Lions may be without 2 key offensive starters vs. Seahawks

Lions may be without 2 key offensive starters vs. Seahawks

The undefeated Seattle Seahawks will receive their first legitimate test of the 2024 NFL season when they face the Detroit Lions on Monday Night Football at Ford Field in Week 4. Dan Campbell’s Lions are entering Monday’s contest a little banged up on offense. Starting center Frank Ragnow will be sidelined with a partially torn pectoral muscle.

Ragnow’s absence represents a big-time blow to the Lions offense. The three-time Pro Bowler, including consecutive appearances in 2022 and 2023, will be replaced by Graham Glasgow, the usual left guard. Reserve linemen Michael Niese or Kayode Awosika will enter the starting lineup as Glasgow’s replacement at left guard. That spells good news for Seattle’s interior defensive lineman.

And Ragnow may not be the only high-end Lions offensive player to miss Monday’s contest. Sophomore tight end Sam LaPorta did not practice on Thursday due to an ankle injury. LaPorta was listed on Detroit’s injury report.

LaPorta currently ranks third on the team in receiving yards (94), and fourth in receptions (8) and targets (10). It’s been a slow start to LaPorta’s second professional campaign, but make no mistake, his potential absence would be a boost to Seattle’s defense. As a rookie last season, the former Iowa standout totaled 86 receptions for 889 yards and 10 touchdowns, tying for fourth in the entire league among all pass catchers in TDs.

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