Mike Macdonald: "We Can Be So Much Better"

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald addressed the Seahawks' recent performance and playoff prospects. He praised the team's resilience in securing a winning season (0:00) and highlighted key defensive plays, including Riq Woolen's strong game and crucial interception (13:54). Macdonald emphasized the importance of special teams, particularly Jason Myers' field goals and Michael Dickson's punting in their low-scoring victory (12:40). He acknowledged the team's need to improve offensive production, especially in finishing drives (17:16). Regarding playoffs, Macdonald noted that while they don't control their destiny, they're focused on winning their final game and hoping for favorable outcomes elsewhere (6:59). He also discussed the emerging role of running back Kenny McIntosh (3:24) and praised the leadership of defensive linemen Jarran Reed and Leonard Williams (5:31).

Devon Witherspoon reflects on the Seahawks' recent defensive performance and team dynamics. At (0:07), he expresses excitement about a successful play call that resulted in an interception by Riq Woolen. Witherspoon acknowledges his own interception at (0:26), emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on opportunities. He credits his teammates' acceptance for his leadership development at (0:43). Witherspoon highlights the defense's eagerness to face challenges in protecting leads at (1:08). When asked about facing an offense with numerous screens at (1:22), he notes they've encountered similar strategies before, referencing a game plan from the Bills. The conversation concludes with Witherspoon's thoughts on Pete Carroll's potential return to coaching, praising Carroll's ability to connect with players at (1:39).

Leonard Williams discusses the Seahawks' defensive strategy against a scrambling quarterback, emphasizing the team's competitive spirit. He praises Devon Witherspoon's standout performance and highlights the strong partnership with Jarran Reed on the defensive line. Williams reflects on his own performance, considering this one of his best seasons. The team remains hopeful about playoff chances, focusing on controlling what they can. Williams also notes the high number of screen plays they faced and expresses appreciation for Uchenna Nwosu's first sack of the year after battling injuries. He mentions the value of veteran presence and communication on the field, particularly with players like Reed and Nwosu.

In a post-game interview, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith discusses the team's 6-3 win against the Chicago Bears. Smith acknowledges the offensive challenges (0:15), praising the running game and efficient passing despite the low score. He commends the Bears' defense (0:40) and explains their strategy of quick dump-offs (0:57). Smith addresses a controversial fumble play involving Pharaoh Brown (1:34) and expresses confidence in the team's offensive capabilities (3:19). He highlights the outstanding performance of the Seahawks' defense (4:07), mentioning players like Jarran Reed, Leonard Williams, and Uchenna Nwosu. Smith discusses the impact of the short week on game preparation (5:43) and concludes by emphasizing the team's toughness and readiness for the upcoming crucial week (6:55).

Jarran Reed reflects on the Seahawks' recent victory and team dynamics. He mentions continuing Michael Bennett's sack celebration (0:00), noting the importance of limiting it to two pumps to avoid penalties (0:26). Reed describes the intense preparation for the game, involving numerous meetings (0:39). He emphasizes the defense's resilience in low-scoring games (1:15) and praises the team's execution of coach Mike Macdonald's game plan (3:37). Reed also highlights his strong partnership with Leonard Williams on the defensive line (2:42) and discusses the challenge of containing quarterback Caleb Williams (3:21). He mentions the upcoming game against the Rams and the competitiveness of the NFC West (2:20).

In a tight 6-3 victory over the Chicago Bears, Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Mike Macdonald praised his team's resilience and defensive performance. (0:14) Macdonald highlighted the defense's crucial role, crediting them for playing hard and making critical plays. (2:48) He specifically commended Devon Witherspoon's impactful performance, noting his leadership and energy. (4:52) The coach discussed the team's seven sacks, attributing them to a combination of rush and coverage. (6:31) Macdonald emphasized the importance of field position and the strain on the defense in a one-score game. (8:57) He praised Jarran Reed's significant contribution to the defense, mentioning his leadership and impact on the field. Macdonald also addressed Geno Smith's performance, acknowledging the quarterback's strong start and battling spirit despite challenges.

Uchenna Nwosu, linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks, reflects on his return after injury and the team's recent defensive performance. He expresses gratitude for his first sack of the season (0:05) while emphasizing the team's primary goal of winning. Nwosu highlights the defense's strong showing, including 7 sacks against their opponent (0:47). He discusses the challenges of facing mobile quarterbacks (1:22) and praises Leonard Williams' contributions to the defense (1:51). Nwosu commends Mike Macdonald's adaptive play-calling (2:14) and notes his own increasing comfort on the field as he continues to recover (2:55).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discussed the team's preparation for their upcoming game against the Bears. He mentioned the unorthodox week due to the holiday season (0:19). Macdonald confirmed that running back Kenneth Walker III would be out for the game (0:56). He praised running back Zach Charbonnet's consistency and preparation (1:52), and highlighted Kenny McIntosh's positive contributions when given opportunities (2:16). Macdonald emphasized the importance of forcing turnovers in the upcoming game (2:51) and maintained focus on winning despite the team no longer controlling their playoff destiny (3:15).