Asking the Comforting—and Not-So-Comforting—Questions About the Seahawks Offense

Football fandom is a rollercoaster of emotions, and few teams embody that thrill ride better than the Seattle Seahawks. One week, the offense looks unstoppable, a well-oiled machine of precision passes and explosive runs. The next, it stalls like a car ruing on fumes, leaving fans scratching their heads and analysts debating what went wrong. Whether you’re a die-hard 12 or a casual observer, the Seahawks offense raises comforting questions—the ones that make you nod in optimism—and not-so-comforting questions—the ones that keep you up at night.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore both sides of the coin. We’ll celebrate what’s working, scrutinize the struggles, and ask the tough questions that could define Seattle’s season. From Geno Smith’s resurgence to the offensive line’s inconsistencies, we’ll break down the key storylines, backed by trends, stats, and expert takes. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of where this offense stands—and where it might be headed.

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The Comforting Questions: What’s Working for the Seahawks Offense?

Every great offense has a foundation, and Seattle’s 2023–24 unit is no exception. Let’s start with the bright spots—the answers that make the future look promising.

1. Is Geno Smith the Real Deal?

After years of uncertainty at quarterback, the Seahawks finally seem to have stability under center. Geno Smith’s 2022 season was a revelation: 4,282 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and aFL Comeback Player of the Year award. But the comforting question isn’t just about last year—it’s whether he can sustain that success.

Why it’s comforting: Early signs in 2023 suggest he can. Smith’s completion percentage remains elite (consistently above 65%), and his chemistry with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett is undeniable. His ability to extend plays with his legs—while not his primary strength—adds another dimension to the offense. Most importantly, he’s cut down on turnovers, a critical factor for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

Stat to watch: Smith’s passer rating under pressure. In 2022, he thrived when blitzed (106.9 rating), a trend that continued into 2023. If he keeps that up, the Seahawks’ aerial attack will remain a nightmare for defenses.

2. Can the Ruing Game Stay Dominant?

The Seahawks have long been a run-first team, and 2023 is no different. With Keeth Walker III leading the charge and rookie Zach Charboet providing a dynamic change-of-pace, Seattle’s ground game is a comforting constant in an otherwise unpredictable league.

Why it’s comforting: Walker’s explosiveness (4.5+ yards per carry in 2022) and Charboet’s versatility (a dual-threat out of UCLA) give offensive coordinator Shane Waldron multiple ways to attack. The Seahawks ranked in the top 10 in rushing yards last season, and with an improved offensive line (more on that later), they could climb even higher.

Key matchup: Watch how they fare against stout run defenses like the 49ers and Cowboys. If they can grind out yards against elite front sevens, this offense will be nearly unstoppable.

3. Are the Playmakers Finally Healthy?

Injuries derailed Seattle’s 2022 playoff push, but 2023 has (so far) been a different story. DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and tight end Noah Fant have all stayed on the field, and the results speak for themselves. Metcalf’s physicality and Lockett’s route-ruing form one of the NFL’s best WR duos, while Fant’s blocking and receiving make him a matchup nightmare.

Why it’s comforting: When healthy, this trio gives Smith reliable targets in every situation. Metcalf’s deep-ball ability stretches defenses, Lockett’s precision on third downs keeps drives alive, and Fant’s versatility allows Waldron to get creative with formations.

X-factor: Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The 2023 first-round pick was a steal at No. 20, and while he’s still finding his footing, his potential as a slot receiver could take this offense to another level. If he develops quickly, Seattle might have the most dangerous WR room in the NFC.

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The Not-So-Comforting Questions: What Should Worry Seahawks Fans?

Now, let’s tackle the elephant in the room—the not-so-comforting questions that linger like a bad call from the refs. These are the issues that, if unaddressed, could derail Seattle’s season.

1. Can the Offensive Line Hold Up?

The Seahawks’ O-line has been a revolving door of injuries and inconsistencies for years. While 2023 brought some improvements—like the addition of guard Damien Lewis and tackle Charles Cross—questions remain.

Why it’s concerning: Pass protection has been shaky at times. Smith was sacked 43 times in 2022 (tied for 10th-most in the NFL), and while some of that was on him holding the ball too long, the line’s struggles in one-on-one matchups are glaring. If Cross doesn’t take a second-year leap or injuries strike again, this unit could become a liability.

Critical stat: Seattle’s offensive line ranked 22nd in pass-block win rate last season (per ESPN). Until that number improves, Smith’s success—no matter how skilled—will always be in jeopardy.

2. Is the Play-Calling Too Predictable?

Shane Waldron’s offense has shown flashes of brilliance, but critics argue it lacks creativity in crucial moments. The Seahawks often rely on a handful of staple plays (e.g., outside zone runs, deep shots to Metcalf), which opposing defenses have started to exploit.

Why it’s concerning: In high-leverage situations—like third-and-long or red-zone trips—the offense can stall. Waldron’s reluctance to use pre-snap motion or misdirection plays makes Seattle easier to defend. For comparison, teams like the Chiefs and Eagles use motion on over 50% of snaps; the Seahawks? Closer to 30%.

Telling trend: Seattle’s red-zone efficiency dropped from 60% in 2021 to 53% in 2022. If they can’t improve in the most critical area of the field, even a top-10 offense will struggle to win tight games.

3. What Happens If Injuries Strike Again?

The Seahawks’ 2022 season was a masterclass in “what if?” What if Walker hadn’t missed time? What if Lockett had stayed healthy all year? Injury luck is a huge factor in the NFL, and Seattle’s depth—while improved—is still a question mark.

Why it’s concerning:

Ruing back: If Walker or Charboet goes down, the drop-off to DeeJay Dallas or Key McIntosh is steep.
Wide receiver: Behind Metcalf, Lockett, and Smith-Njigba, the options are unproven (e.g., Dareke Young, Cody Thompson).
Offensive line: One injury to Cross or Lewis could force a shuffle that disrupts continuity.

Historical red flag: Since 2020, the Seahawks have ranked in the bottom third of the league in games lost to injury. Until that changes, the “next man up” mantra will always feel like a gamble.

4. Can They Beat the Elite Teams?

The Seahawks have feasted on weaker opponents but struggled against playoff-caliber teams. In 2022, they went 1–5 against teams that made the postseason (with the lone win coming against a resting Cardinals squad in Week 18).

Why it’s concerning: Until Seattle proves it can hang with the Chiefs, Eagles, or 49ers, doubts will linger. The offense’s tendency to go conservative in big games—like the Week 10 loss to Tampa Bay, where they scored just 16 points—suggests a mental hurdle.

Make-or-break stretch: Weeks 10–14 feature matchups against the Commanders, 49ers, Cowboys, and Eagles. If the offense sputters in those games, the playoffs could be out of reach.

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Google Trends Deep Dive: What Are Fans Actually Asking?

To gauge the pulse of the 12s, we turned to Google Trends data (English queries, past 12 months). Here’s what’s trending—and what it tells us about fan sentiment.

Expert Takes: What Analysts Are Saying

We compiled insights from NFL analysts, former players, and stats gurus to add context to the comforting—and not-so-comforting—narratives.

The Optimistic View

Mike Sando (The Athletic): “Geno Smith isn’t just a system QB—he’s a top-12 quarterback in this league. The Seahawks’ offense is built around his strengths: quick throws, play-action, and letting his receivers make plays. If the line holds up, this could be a top-10 unit.”

Greg Cosell (NFL Films): “Keeth Walker III is a special talent. His contact balance and vision are elite. If Seattle commits to the run, they’ll wear defenses down.”

The Skeptical View

Warren Sharp (Sharp Football Analysis): “The Seahawks’ offense is too reliant on explosive plays. They don’t sustain drives consistently, and their third-down conversion rate (38% in 2022) is mediocre. Until they fix that, they won’t contend.”

Joe Thomas (NFL Network): “The offensive line is the biggest question mark. Charles Cross has potential, but he’s not there yet. If he doesn’t improve, Geno will be ruing for his life again.”

Consensus: Most experts agree that the Seahawks’ ceiling depends on two things:

Geno Smith maintaining his 2022 form.
The offensive line taking a collective step forward.

If both happen, Seattle could surprise. If not, it’ll be another year of “what if?”

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How the Seahawks Offense Can Answer the Tough Questions

Every problem has a solution—some easier to implement than others. Here’s how the Seahawks can turn their not-so-comforting questions into comforting answers.

1. Fixing the Offensive Line

Short-term: Scheme around weaknesses. More quick passes, rollouts, and play-action can mask pass-blocking issues. Waldron should also lean on tight ends and ruing backs in chip blocks to give Smith extra time.

Long-term: Invest in depth. The 2024 draft should prioritize offensive line talent, particularly at guard and center. Free agency could also bring a veteran swing tackle for insurance.

2. Adding Creativity to the Play-Calling

Waldron doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel, but incorporating more:

Pre-snap motion (to confuse defenses).
Screen passes (to slow down aggressive pass rushes).
Designed QB runs (to keep defenses honest).

could add a new dimension. Even small tweaks—like using Smith-Njigba on jet sweeps—could open up the playbook.

3. Improving Red-Zone Efficiency

The fix here is twofold:

Persoel: Get Smith-Njigba more involved. His size and catch radius make him a mismatch near the goal line.
Play design: Use more rub routes (pick plays) to create separation. The Seahawks rank near the bottom in red-zone rub concepts—an easy fix for Waldron.

4. Building Depth at Skill Positions

The Seahawks should:

Sign a veteran WR (e.g., Odell Beckham Jr. if he’s healthy).
Develop Key McIntosh as a third-down back.
Use late-round picks on high-upside linemen.

This would mitigate injury risks and keep the offense humming.

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Predictions: Where Does the Offense Go From Here?

Based on the comforting and not-so-comforting questions, here’s how the 2023–24 Seahawks offense might shape up:

Best-Case Scenario

Geno Smith repeats his 2022 performance, the offensive line gels, and the run game dominates. Waldron adds just enough wrinkles to keep defenses guessing, and Smith-Njigba emerges as a star. Result: Top-5 offense, deep playoff run.

Worst-Case Scenario

Injuries strike the line or skill positions, Smith regresses under pressure, and the offense stalls against elite teams. Waldron’s predictability becomes a liability, and the Seahawks miss the playoffs. Result: Middle-of-the-pack offense, another rebuild year.

Most Likely Scenario

The Seahawks finish as a top-12 offense—good enough to compete for a wild-card spot but not quite elite. Smith remains solid, the run game stays strong, and the line improves slightly. However, inconsistencies in play-calling and red-zone execution keep them from contending for a Super Bowl.

Final record prediction: 10–7, wild-card berth.

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How to Watch the Seahawks Offense Like a Pro

Want to evaluate the Seahawks’ offense like an analyst? Here’s what to focus on in each game:

Key Metrics to Track

Third-down conversion rate: Aim for 45%+ (league average is ~40%).
Pass-block win rate: Above 55% is solid; below 50% is trouble.
Explosive plays (20+ yards): 5+ per game indicates a dynamic offense.
Red-zone TD percentage: 60%+ is elite; below 50% is a red flag.

Player-Specific Focus Areas

Geno Smith: Watch his footwork under pressure. Happy feet = trouble.
Keeth Walker III: Track his yards after contact. If it’s below 2.5, the line isn’t opening holes.
Charles Cross: Monitor his false starts and sack allowed rate. Improvement here is critical.
Shane Waldron: Count the pre-snap motion plays. More = better.

Tools to Use

Enhance your fandom with these resources:

Next Gen Stats (NFL.com): Tracks advanced metrics like completion percentage over expectation (CPOE) for Smith.
Pro Football Focus (PFF): Grades every player’s performance by snap.
Football Outsiders (DVOA): Measures offensive efficiency adjusted for situation.
Google Trends: See what other fans are searching in real time.

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Conclusion: Embrace the Rollercoaster

The Seahawks offense is a study in contrasts—brilliant one week, baffling the next. The comforting questions (Smith’s growth, the run game, the WR trio) give fans reason to believe. The not-so-comforting questions (the line, play-calling, injuries) keep that belief in check.

But that’s the beauty of football. No team is perfect, and every season is a story of adaptation. The Seahawks have the pieces to be great; now, it’s about putting them together. Will they answer the tough questions with resounding success? Or will the doubts linger?

One thing’s for sure: It’ll be a fun ride. So buckle up, 12s. The best—and most nerve-wracking—is yet to come.

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Tags: DK Metcalf, football play-calling, Geno Smith, Google Trends football, Kenneth Walker III, NFL analysis, NFL predictions, offensive line struggles, red-zone efficiency, Seahawks 2023, Seahawks depth chart, Seahawks offense, Shane Waldron, Tyler Lockett

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