OFFENSE
Seattle was awful in the first half, at one point having as many negative yards because of penalties as yards gained. The offense picked up after going to the hurry-up late in the first half, but two of the four touchdowns scored were essentially because of the defense. The run game was a non-factor, and quarterback Russell Wilson had by far his worst performance in terms of completion percentage, going just 14-for-32.
Grade: D+
DEFENSE
Seattle’s defense was asked to do way too much in the first half, being on the field for more than 21 minutes. The defense was the reason the Seahawks got back into the game, forcing two fumbles on sacks deep in Arizona territory and taking one of those back for a touchdown. But the defense then crumbled after Seattle took the lead, allowing the Cardinals to take the game back with two long touchdown drives.
Grade: C-
SPECIAL TEAMS
There were no disasters for Seattle, but there were several small slips that hampered the Seahawks. Return man Tyler Lockette let a short kickoff late in the game bounce and then bobbled the ball, forcing Seattle to start a key drive inside its own 10. Punter Jon Ryan had a couple odd punts, including being unable to pin the Cardinals deep late in the game. But kicker Steven Hauschka continued his strong season, making both his field-goal attempts.
Grade: C-
COACHING
Despite an extra week of preparation, and despite it being a make-or-break game with regards to the NFC West, Seattle was not ready at the start of the game. The Seahawks made some questionable choices with regards to two-point conversions, both in play calling and the decision to go for two. Seattle’s penalty woes re-emerged, with 14 flags for 131 yards. And the running game was abandoned as Marshawn Lynch received just eight carries.
Grade: D
OVERALL
This was the biggest game of Seattle’s season. A win would have put the Seahawks back in the fray, just a game behind Arizona for first place in the NFC West. Instead Seattle is now three games back with seven left to play. And despite having a home game in prime time, the Seahawks allowed the most points they have in a single game since 2010. This one was a big disappointment.
Grade: D+
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