Going into this game even the most ardent Seahawks fan was expecting a loss. With a 3-6 record, the playoffs all but out of the question, there was still a lot to play for and learn in this game. Seattle was finally healthy, apart from concussion to cornerback Josh Wilson, for more than one game. How would Seattle play in an early game, against a quality opponent, with something to prove?
For one quarter, the Seahawks played well. The defense keyed on stopping the run and attacked the quarterback during pass plays. They forced two punts but the offense was completely out of sync and couldn’t get a first down, punting back to the Vikings and putting the defense back on the field.
Then the second quarter blues hit again. The Seahawks defense was still focused on stuffing the run but played soft zone against the pass. Minnesota exploded for 21 points, their highest point total in a quarter all season, as Brett Favre found open receivers all over the field. Seattle managed two first downs and negative rushing yards.
The play of the game was the kickoff to Seattle after Minnesota had gone up 14-0. Wide receiver Ben Obumanu made a great return from the end zone out past the 30 when he fumbled the ball. Minnesota recovered, cashed in with another touchdown, and the rout was on.
On a side note, what was up with the turf in the Metrodome or whatever they call it these days? It looked like a bad attempt at making an AstroTurf patchwork quilt.
The Good:
1. Run Defense. Yes, the defense gave up 35 points. But they held Adrian Peterson to 82 yards on 24 carries. Most of the yards were on three or four runs of 10 yards. The rest of the time, the defense did a good job of staying home in their gaps and controlling the backside. Yes, Chester Taylor got 73 yards on 11 carries but his last carry was for 45 yards.
2. Cory Redding. He was a monster in the middle, more than proving he was worth trading Julian Peterson in the offseason. He had to be to make up for the dismal game Brandon Mebane had.
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