Key Highlights
- The All-22 makes that contrast even sharper. Let’s break it down. The BadThe defense in the first half: problems with run fits and a nonexistent pass rushThe opening half was arguably the defense’s worst run-defense tape in weeks.
- The issues weren’t about effort or missed tackles as much as structure and spacing. The Rams repeatedly stressed Seattle’s interior fits using a mix of wide zone, duo, and insert concepts, forcing linebackers to declare early.
- Seattle’s front was often aligned in looks that put too much stress on second-level defenders to be perfect.
- Defensive tackles were getting reached or displaced just enough to muddy the reads, and linebackers were arriving late or off-balance. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Seahawks have a structure with two safeties deep downfield and play a lot of nickel coverage.
- Even against teams with strong running games, the team remains committed to this formation. This makes defending the run a challenge because you have fewer defenders than gaps to defend.