By Chris Trujillo
Herald Writer
SEATTLE – It’s not the first time a backup quarterback has taken an otherwise lifeless unit and turned it into something resembling an effective NFL offense.
It’s not even Trent Dilfer’s first time, which helps explain why his play during Sunday’s 24-15 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars looked so natural.
After replacing Baltimore Ravens quarterback Tony Banks 10 games into last season, Dilfer led the team to its first Super Bowl victory. When it was all said and done, the rugged 6-foot-4 play-caller had recorded an impressive 11-1 record as a starting quarterback.
Throwing in Sunday’s victory, you get an impressive 12 consecutive victories for Dilfer.
“I am addicted to winning,” he said. “I came here to win football games.”
But unlike his takeover in Baltimore, it’s clear that Dilfer’s job in Seattle remains as backup to Matt Hasselbeck, who watched Sunday’s game wrapped tightly in a parka from the sidelines. It’s role he has embraced and supports.
“This is Matt’s team,” Dilfer said. “Without a doubt. He is a captain, and that is one of the biggest honors you can have as a professional football player. This team will play great for him. And he has earned it.”
In truth, Dilfer’s Seattle debut wasn’t exactly spectacular. He simply made sound decisions and few mistakes. His numbers were as modest as his demeanor, as he completed 15 of 23 passes for 210 yards and a touchdown, which came on the Seahawks’ first drive of the game. Dilfer also completed three consecutive passes of 18 yards or more to set up a 1-yard touchdown toss to Itula Mili.
On more than one occasion, Dilfer was able to escape a collapsing pocket, while finding receivers for sizable gains. Despite two sacks allowed, his savvy veteran instincts allowed him to dodge several Jacksonville blitzes.
His only big mistake came on a wayward pass into the end zone, which was intercepted by Jacksonville’s Aaron Beasley with 1:21 left in the first half.
Although Dilfer has gracefully accepted his second-string designation, there still remains an uncertainty surrounding next week’s starting position. It seemingly depends on the status of Hasselbeck, who is still nursing a sore groin.
According to Seattle coach Mike Holmgren, Hasselbeck’s ability to play against Denver next Sunday will be evaluated in the coming days.
“If he (Matt) is healthy,” Holmgren said, “in all likelihood, he’ll play, and we’ll make that decision next week.”
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