The Seattle Seahawks are set to clash with the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marking a significant matchup between two teams on contrasting paths. The Seahawks have emerged victorious in six of their last seven games, positioning themselves as contenders for the NFC West title and a playoff spot. In stark contrast, the Falcons have stumbled, losing six of their last seven, which virtually guarantees them another disappointing season.
Seattle, boasting a record of 9-3, cannot afford to falter against Atlanta, which sits at 4-8. With the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers both also having nine wins, every game counts. Linebacker Ernest Jones IV emphasized the importance of focusing on each game, stating, “We put ourselves in a good spot, but a couple of other teams have done the same thing.” He added, “You don”t help your case losing games.”
Following a dominant 26-0 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, where they achieved their first shutout since 2015, the Seahawks come into this game with confidence. Meanwhile, the Falcons are reeling after a narrow loss to the New York Jets, where a last-second 56-yard field goal sealed their fate. Atlanta has struggled in close games, with two losses in overtime and two more in the final moments of regulation, resulting in a 1-5 record in one-score games.
The disappointing performance this season has put head coach Raheem Morris under scrutiny. Morris expressed his belief in his team”s competitive spirit, stating, “These guys, they are competitors. They love playing. I”ve got a lot of confidence they”ll go out there and do that for us.”
In Seattle, cornerback Riq Woolen, who was once considered a trade candidate, has regained his form. After a rough patch earlier in the season, he has defended eight passes and recorded his first interception last week. Coach Mike Macdonald praised Woolen”s attitude and performance, noting, “He”s had a great attitude, he”s been a great teammate.”
On the defensive line, Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy II have become a formidable duo, each leading the team with seven sacks. Williams reflected on their chemistry, stating that their time together last season helped build trust.
The Seahawks currently rank fourth in the NFL with 40 sacks and will look to increase that total against Atlanta”s quarterback Kirk Cousins, who stepped in after Michael Penix Jr. suffered a season-ending injury.
As the Falcons aim to avoid matching their franchise record for consecutive losing seasons, the team”s struggles have been evident, particularly in special teams. Mistakes such as a fumbled punt return and a long kickoff return contributed to their defeat against the Jets. Morris lamented, “We played awful on special teams. I don”t know how to say it any other way.”
Jones, who was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week after a standout performance against the Vikings, will look to build on his success. He recorded two interceptions, including a touchdown return, and led the team with 12 tackles. “I think just finally getting some recognition, finally people are knowing who I am,” Jones said of his recent accolades.
With everything at stake for Seattle and the Falcons facing yet another losing season, this matchup promises to be a pivotal moment in both teams” narratives.
