The primary area of concern for many Seattle Seahawks fans this year is its struggling offensive line. Most observers agree the Seahawks already excel at most of the skill positions. Star quarterback Russell Wilson is entering his prime, and the receiving corps features talented playmakers like Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett, and Jermaine Kearse. The main issue this season is that the team simply does not have enough time to execute plays effectively.
Five Keys to the Improved Seattle Seahawks Offensive Line
However, the offensive line has recently demonstrated encouraging improvement. They looked particularly impressive last week against an excellent New England Patriots defense. Here are five keys that help explain the O-line’s progress.
Variety of Formations
The offense has integrated a wider array of play calls in recent weeks. In its first few games, Seattle showed a run-first mentality that resulted in stagnating play. They struggled to convert in the red zone. Field goals, and even first downs, were uncommon as well. Recently, they have begun calling more short passes that do not require as much time to develop.
Additionally, the offense has implemented configurations designed to assist in the line’s development. Wilson is lining up in the shotgun more often, giving him a little extra time to react. They have also started using the tight ends to help block. These adjustments give Wilson’s receivers added time to run their routes.
Practice Makes Perfect
As in previous years, the offensive line has improved with time. During last year’s nightmarish 2-4 start, the line ranked nearly last in the league in hurries and sacks allowed. The group stepped up at mid-season, and helped turn the offense into a well-oiled machine. After shuffling lineups early in the season, guard Mark Glowinski has solidified his starting position. Tackle Bradley Sowell is recovering from injury and will not start, but has played well this year and likely will see more playing time.
Minor changes have made a signficant impact. Returning starter Garry Gilliam is playing at right tackle this year, after playing all of last year at left tackle. After playing most of his career at tackle and guard, Justin Britt is now playing at center in place of Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion Max Unger. The starters have simply needed real-time game experience to function well.
Addition of Rookies
First round draft pick Germain Ifedi from Texas A&M has helped after sitting out the first few games due to injury. After struggling in his first few starts, he has settled in nicely. Rookie tackle George Fant has surprised coaches with his rapid progression in playing only three games this season.
Confidence and Momentum
Favorable outcomes in many close games this season have helped bring some of the swagger back to a team that definitely started to gel last year. “Bend, but don’t break” is the way tackle Garry Gilliam described the play of the offensive line this season. The strong play of the defense has in turn helped the offense’s confidence. The linemen realize that solid play, rather than dominance, is sufficient to get the job done.
Help From Teammates
The line is starting to get by with a little help from friends. Although released this week to make room for phenom running back Thomas Rawls, Christine Michael played markedly better after appearing tentative early. Also helping is the addition of rookie running back C.J. Prosise of Notre Dame, who has proven to be an effective pro player.
There is still a lot of football left to play, but the Seahawks hope the offensive line can continue its trend towards enhanced play as clutch time approaches.
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