In a matchup that highlights contrasting trajectories, the Seattle Seahawks will take on the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Seahawks have been on a roll, winning six out of their last seven games, which places them in contention for the NFC West title and a favorable playoff seed. Conversely, the Falcons have struggled, losing six of their last seven contests, putting them on the brink of an eighth consecutive losing season.
Seattle enters this game with a record of 9-3, while Atlanta sits at 4-8. With significant playoff implications for the Seahawks and little at stake for the Falcons, Seattle cannot afford to underestimate their opponent. Ernest Jones IV, a linebacker for the Seahawks, acknowledged the competitive nature of the NFC, stating, “We put ourselves in a good spot, but a couple of other teams have done the same thing. You don”t help your case losing games.”
The Seahawks are coming off a dominant 26-0 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, marking their first shutout since 2015. In stark contrast, Atlanta”s recent performance has been marred by close losses, including a heartbreaking defeat to the last-place New York Jets on a last-second field goal by Nick Folk. The Falcons have seen a series of narrow defeats, including two in overtime and others in the waning moments of regulation, leaving them with a dismal 1-5 record in one-score games.
The disappointing season has placed pressure on second-year head coach Raheem Morris. Despite the challenges, Morris expressed confidence in his team”s competitiveness, saying, “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.”
Before the trade deadline, Riq Woolen was under scrutiny as his role in Seattle seemed uncertain, especially after some lackluster performances. However, Woolen has rebounded well, defending eight passes in his last six games and achieving his first interception of the season last Sunday. Coach Mike Macdonald praised him, stating, “He”s doing a tremendous job. He”s had a great attitude, he”s been a great teammate.”
The Seahawks” defensive line, featuring Leonard Williams and Byron Murphy II, has been formidable, each recording seven sacks this season. Williams noted how their previous collaboration has fostered trust and understanding, remarking on Murphy”s impressive ability to absorb knowledge and assert himself on the field.
With a total of 40 sacks this season, ranking fourth in the NFL, the Seahawks aim to add to that tally against Atlanta”s new starting quarterback, Kirk Cousins, who stepped in for the injured Michael Penix Jr.. Atlanta is on the verge of matching a franchise record for consecutive losing seasons, having previously experienced a prolonged stretch of poor performance from 1983 to 1990.
Recent mistakes in special teams significantly contributed to Atlanta”s last loss. An ill-advised decision by Jamal Agnew to field a punt inside the five-yard line led to a fumble, giving New York an easy touchdown. Additionally, the Falcons allowed an 83-yard kickoff return that set up a field goal. Morris lamented the special teams” performance, stating, “I don”t know how to say it any other way.” Compounding the issues, Zane Gonzalez, Atlanta”s third kicker this season, missed a 50-yard attempt.
On a positive note for Seattle, Jones was recognized as the NFC Defensive Player of the Week after a stellar performance against the Vikings, which included two interceptions—one returned for a touchdown—and a team-leading 12 tackles. Jones reflected on his recognition, saying, “I think just finally getting some recognition, finally people are knowing who I am. It just feels good. I”ve been playing this game for a long time, and I”ve been in the back seat.”
