JERSEY CITY, N.J. — Michael Bennett isn’t the best-known member of the NFL’s best defense, but he has been one of the Seattle Seahawks’ most valuable players this season.
And by the end of the week, regardless of how he plays, Bennett could become much better known just for his personality and sense of humor, which if Monday was any indication, should produce some good moments at Tuesday’s media day.
One question being asked of pretty much everybody is how the weather could affect both teams. Bennett said weather won’t bother them, and noted “we’re ready to play on rocks.”
On the notion that a lack of Super Bowl experience could hurt the Seahawks, he said, “Some people have never been to space, but they still go to space.”
And when asked if, in light of the attention give to Seattle’s secondary, the defensive line is overlooked, he said, “I don’t know if we’re overlooked. They know us pretty well at Wells Fargo.” A not-so-subtle reminder that plenty of players on Seattle’s defensive line are making pretty good money.
And speaking of which, Bennett is playing for Seattle on a one-year deal, and given the season he has had, he’s sure to have his share of suitors once free agency begins. Bennett isn’t thinking about that now, he said.
“I don’t think about the money because it’s not in my account,” he said with a laugh. “You do want long-term deals, but I don’t think about it as much as some people think I think about it. I think about winning the game. I’m taking it one game at a time, taking care of this moment and playing for this team.”
Asked if he would like to stay in Seattle, he said, “I would love to stay in Seattle. I love everything about the players, the coaches and the fans.”
Back in action
Amid all the craziness of their arrival in New Jersey for the Super Bowl, the Seahawks returned to a bit of normalcy Monday, taking part in their first practice of the week at the New York Giants’ practice facility.
Because there is still snow on the ground, the Seahawks had to work indoors, and might have to do so all week. That shouldn’t be a big issue for a team that regularly practices indoors at home during the winter.
“We’re going to work at the Giants facility, it seems to be a great place for us, we fit right in,” Carroll said. “We did not go outside today, we had a great workout today, it was a bonus Monday for us, more than you normally get in a normal week’s practice. Guys took to it, they had great tempo and enthusiasm.”
And no, the Seahawks aren’t overly concerned about the weather this week, despite it being one of the day’s most frequently asked questions.
“We play in an area that has some inclement weather, occasionally, so it’s not something we’re bothered by,” Carroll said. “The normal issues arise, the ball is a little harder to handle, the wind blowing does change factors somewhat, but for us it’s no big deal.”
Harvin update
Percy Harvin practiced again, as expected, and is expected to be on the field for the biggest game of the season after playing all of six quarters this season, playoffs included.
“He’s ready to go,” Carroll said. “He had another great day today, he had a great week last week, he’s part of the game plan.”
Geography 101
“First I’d like to say it’s really great to be here in New Jersey.”
That’s how Carroll opened his press conference Monday, followed by a little chuckle. Carroll wasn’t mocking the Garden State, by any means, but rather having a little fun with the media a day after someone at Sunday’s press conference pointed out that he had referred to New York multiple times despite the fact that the Super Bowl is being played in New Jersey, and he was holding a press conference in that same state.
Carroll’s response Sunday when his mistake was pointed out? “That’s my bad. I’m talking to a bunch of people on the West Coast who don’t care about that but you’re right.”
Herald Writer John Boyle: jboyle@heraldnet.com.
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