The Seattle Seahawks are heading back to the Super Bowl for the first time since the 2014 season, a time when they were anchored by head coach Pete Carroll, the renowned “Legion of Boom” defense, quarterback Russell Wilson, and running back Marshawn Lynch. They secured their spot in Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots following a thrilling 31-27 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Championship Game this past Sunday. With preseason odds of 60-1, Seattle had the fourth-longest odds for a team making the Super Bowl in the 21st century, trailing only a few notable teams.
So, what factors contributed to the Seahawks” success in clinching the NFC title? Here are the five key reasons behind their remarkable journey to Super Bowl LX on February 8.
Strong Defense at All Levels
The Seahawks boast an exceptional defense that ranks as the number one scoring defense in the league, allowing just 17.2 points per game. While some teams, like the Rams, concentrate their talent in one area, Seattle has All-Pro-caliber players across the board. The defensive line features second-team All-Pro tackle Leonard Williams, Pro Bowl edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence, and second-team All-Pro linebacker Ernest Jones IV. The secondary is led by second-team All-Pro cornerback Devon Witherspoon. This depth and versatility empower head coach Mike Macdonald to execute a diverse defensive strategy.
Impact of Jaxon Smith-Njigba
No player in the 2025 season matched the receiving yards of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who amassed 1,793 yards. His ability to stretch the field greatly enhances the functionality of Seattle”s offense. In the NFC Championship Game, he recorded 153 receiving yards and a touchdown on ten receptions, showcasing his skill against various defenders. Notably, his technique resembles that of a poker player, aligning his shoulders in a neutral position to conceal his route intentions, making him a critical asset for the Seahawks.
Sam Darnold”s Development Under Klint Kubiak
Quarterback Sam Darnold achieved career-highs this season in completion percentage at 67.7% and yards per attempt at 8.5, thanks to the guidance of offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Darnold”s performance has been characterized by efficiency, and his ability to create big plays is evident in his 35 completions of over 25 yards, ranking sixth in the NFL. Though he faced challenges with 20 turnovers, his threat to the defense has been a significant improvement over the previous season. Kubiak”s strategy of utilizing play-action passes effectively contributed to the Seahawks achieving the NFL”s third-highest scoring offense.
Mike Macdonald”s Defensive Strategy
The Seahawks” status as the NFL”s top scoring defense is not solely due to talent; Mike Macdonald“s innovative approach plays a crucial role. By utilizing five or more defensive backs on over 92% of defensive snaps, he has crafted a uniquely effective strategy. The team allows only 4.7 yards per play in their preferred nickel formation. Macdonald”s ability to adapt and maximize his players” talents, including turning rookie safety Nick Emmanwori into a standout pass-rusher, has been instrumental in Seattle”s defensive success this season.
John Schneider”s Historic Rebuild
John Schneider, the Seahawks” general manager, has achieved a remarkable feat as the first in NFL history to lead a team to multiple Super Bowls with a completely new head coach and roster. His efforts in rebuilding the Seahawks from the remnants of the “Legion of Boom” and the Russell Wilson era have set the stage for this year”s NFC championship. Schneider”s vision and execution in assembling a competitive squad have been pivotal in Seattle”s journey to Super Bowl LX.
