Here’s how the Seattle Seahawks graded out in their 13-12 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday:
OFFENSE
Quarterback Russell Wilson had one of those days where his accuracy was off, Seattle’s run game never broke anything big, and once again the red zone was not the Seahawks’ friend. But credit Seattle’s offense for finally sustaining a couple drives in the fourth quarter, particularly on its final drive when it went 79 yards on 17 plays en route to the game-winning field goal. And for the first time this season Wilson wasn’t sacked.
Grade: C-
DEFENSE
Dallas was able to gain some yards on the ground, but the Cowboys weren’t able to control the line of scrimmage the way they did last week against the New York Giants. The Seahawks completely shut down the Dallas passing game, with cornerback Richard Sherman rendering Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant’s return a non-event. Seattle’s defense is playing at an extremely high level and deserves almost all the credit for the victory.
Grade: A-
SPECIAL TEAMS
Kicker Steven Hauschka finally had his perfect record on field-goal attempts this season ended when he had a 47-yarder blocked in the fourth quarter. The Seahawks also had a good punt return by Tyler Lockett nullified by a holding penalty on Sherman. But Hauschka and punter Jon Ryan continued to prevent returns, as just one of eight kickoffs/punts resulted in a return attempt.
Grade: C
COACHING
The run-pass mix on offense was good, it was more a case of execution — plus good play from Dallas’ defense — that slowed the offense down. The decision to have Sherman shadow Bryant the whole game took Bryant out of the game. And the fourth-quarter woes seem to be in the past after the Seahawks received positive contributions on both sides of the ball with the game in the balance late.
Grade: B
OVERALL
It may not have been the prettiest game offensively for Seattle, and the wounded Cowboys, who had lost four straight, may not have been the highest-caliber opponent. But the Seahawks’ defense seems to have verified that it’s back to its championship-caliber self. Seattle has now clawed itself back to .500 at the midpoint of the season, and after the bye week will be able to open the second half with a clean slate.
Grade: B-
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
