Let's switch the narrative - DEFENSE and RUNNING GAME

[NoGain]

They've had some decent games, but they are currently ranked 20th against the run. Bucs (if they make it) and the 9ers are the only top 10 run defenses left in the NFC side of the playoffs outside of Seattle.

I get what you're saying from a stat perspective. But when they're healthy on D (which they pretty much are now) their defensive talent is the best of the NFC playoff teams from what I've seen besides us.

 

[DTiempo81]

I get what you're saying from a stat perspective. But when they're healthy on D (which they pretty much are now) their defensive talent is the best of the NFC playoff teams from what I've seen besides us.

Over the last 5 games they've really only shut down one team rushing and that was the Raiders. Their pass defense is much better.

 

[NoGain]

Over the last 5 games they've really only shut down one team rushing and that was the Raiders. Their pass defense is much better.

I just think they're the most talented defensive team besides us in the NFC playoffs. I'm not alone in thinking this. Many so-called "experts" agree with me on this.

 

[MontanaHawk05]

Our run game definitely needs to be in the convo as the team's identity, because they've just been getting such good execution. The 3rd and 17 Walker run was a great example, but far from the only one. Our guys are just...going down and getting a hat on their guys. Plain and simple.

We also have terrific perimeter blocking. Barner and Saubert are just aces out there, and all our WRs are willing blockers as well.

Also, Ouzts. My definite impression was that Kubiak threw a lot of him at the 49ers and they just weren't ready for it.

We really needed this for the playoffs.

 

[hox]

The offense executed the perfect strategy against the 9ers - one we should repeat for the rest of the season. Sam as game manager for a powerful run game and bully defense, being relied upon to move the chains with his arm and legs is the safest way for us to work our way through the playoffs.

If we establish this as an identity, defenses will be forced to adjust to us, opening up the big plays again. But our base approach should be what we saw last night.

Depends on the match up. Not everyone in the playoffs will have a bad run defense like the 49ers. They had 8 in the box and still couldn't stop the run.

 

[hawkfan68]

The Seahawks defense is a monster. The last two opponents had 139 and 173 total yards respectfully.

 

[keasley45]

Depends on the match up. Not everyone in the playoffs will have a bad run defense like the 49ers. They had 8 in the box and still couldn't stop the run.

Against the defenses i listed at the top of the thread and how they rank, i dont see a need to change the approach until the SB, pending who we might play.

 

[SoulfishHawk]

THIS looks more like the team mike wants. VIOLENT. Knock people's d**** in the dirt. Pound the rock.