An Interview With a Fellow Seahawks Blogger

First posted on ArmchairGM as part of “The Hawks Nest” beat articles.

Three-quarters into the season, 8-4, comfortable division lead, can even clinch with a win over Arizona this Sunday. I think this is a good team that needs some huge improvements in 2008. But that is my opinion. I decided to add another perspective into the picture, by interviewing the co-beat writer for “The Hawks Nest”, Matt (AKA Afraidofedhochuli), from USA Today acclaimed blog Afraid of Ed Hochuli, on various questions about this year’s team. My questions are in bold, his responses are in regular font.

1. Is it a mere coincidence that Seattle has won their last 5 games (since last year) when Shaun Alexander does not play?

No. Holmgren is a much better coach then some give him credit for, and in that same breath I will say that Hasselbeck is also very underrated. They were able to game-plan as needed and use their personnel correctly.
2. Suppose Mike Holmgren leaves this team, who is your top candidate for a replacement?

That is tough. The normal fan would say Jim Mora. Me? Jim Zorn. I think he has put in his time and hearing him on the radio is amazing. The question becomes: What do players think about him? Or Do players get better behind him?
3. What has changed this year in the defense of Seattle that has them at #1 in the league in passing TD’s allowed?

Brains. What does this mean? Jim Mora, Brian Russell and Deon Grant. They brought in Mora to help with the secondary, but Russell and Grant have been hailed (for the last few years) as two of the smarter DBs in the league. They play smart (unlike the two we had previously, who just wanted a big play).
4. Out of all of the notable signings like Patrick Kerney and Deon Grant during the offseason, which acquisition so far, has paid off the most for Seattle? Which move has bombed royally?

Offseason? Does Ellis Wyms count? Grant has been a great addition to the secondary as I said in the previous answer, but Kerney has helped the pass rush. And as the cliché says, can’t have a good either with out the other. 10 ½ sacks is pretty solid.
5. Most impressive rookie (offense, defense, special teams, does not matter)?

I would say that the most visual is Josh Wilson. But the one with the biggest impact: Brandon Mebane. Why? Everyone was worried that we would give up a lot of rushing yards without Tubbs and Darby, but Mebane has stepped up. They are allowing 104.2.
6. I think the offensive line has done a great job for the most part protecting Hasselbeck, what are your thoughts on year 2 without Steve Hutchinson?

There are definitely growing pains, but I don’t think that Hutch was the loss that made the biggest impact. I think it was Tobeck. The Center is the leader of the line and Spencer is having a tough time getting the adjustments right. Simms is filling in alright for Hutchinson, but I won’t be surprised if they go after Alan Faneca with all guns blazing.
7. Why in the heck are most people still confident that the Cardinals are going to not only win at Qwest, but win the division?

Because people are stupid. Is that a good enough reason? No? Well, it’s because the Cards are hot…except…injured. Fitzgerald and Boldin will probably sit, and they just lost Adrian Wilson (Their best defensive player) for the season. They did beat the Hawks once, but the Hawks really beat themselves. I will eat my shoe if the Cards win Sunday, and I will run naked down 1st avenue if they win the division.
8. Last one, where does this team go from the Cardinals game and out?

My head and heart are in agreement. They will win out. The only way I see them not is if they actually rest guys before the playoffs. I don’t see that though. They have a cake schedule and they are getting hot. Remember how New England barely beat Phily? Flash-forward a week and A.J. “The Hero” Feeley throws 4 picks…to linebackers…

This team is better then people want to give them credit for, and I really believe it is because of the inconsistent play. Hasselbeck will carry this team if Shaun falters and the Defense is ready to put up numbers they could never have dreamed of. It’s going to be exciting.