Battle in Seattle for QB1

[Hawktawk]

A lot of the same people who make these prognostications write stuff that shows they don’t even know what they are talking about ,haven’t studied film . Lazy herd mentality . Like saying Genos arm isn’t strong , all kinds of stuff about Geno and Russ and whatever that is not correct . And predicting Geno as the 36 starter . The line as the worst when it’s already better then last year . I’ve watched tons of film which shapes my perception of lots of things. They can take their 5.5 disrespectful anti hawk bias and shove it . They are way off on both Seattle and Denver . Gonna be humorous . Tune in on the 12th .

Sure, there are some lazy sports writers that just rely on each other and don't do their homework. But not many of them work for organizations like ESPN and NFL Network. They do it for a living and are every bit as dedicated to their work and have as much pride in it as you do at maintaining your golf course. They aren't slouches.

Here's just one example of a very reputable sportswriter, Doug Farrar, who now writes for USA Today and has also written for the Washington Post, the Seattle Times, Football Outsiders, and Yahoo Sports, certainly a more extensive resume than those of us that post in the HawkShack, and what he has to say about our team:

Generally speaking, the same people responsible for a team’s rebuild aren’t allowed to be the architects of that rebuild. But Seahawks general manager John Schneider and head coach Pete Carroll earned enough equity in the first half of the previous decade to put themselves in position to do just that. Trading Russell Wilson for a whole bunch of draft capital was a questionable move, especially considering how badly this team had drafted over the second half of the previous decade.

At least the Seahawks seemed to break that trend with a very solid draft in which they tagged undervalued assets instead of overvalued prospects. Offensive tackles Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas, running back Kenneth Walker III, edge-rusher Boye Mafe, and cornerbacks Coby Bryant and Tariq Woolen all look to have a lot of potential. And there are a few studs on the current roster, led perhaps by safety Quandre Diggs, one of the NFL’s best.

But of course, where the discussion starts and ends with the 2022 Seahawks is what life will look like without Russell Wilson for the first time since 2011. Wilson covered up a host of offensive sins through his tenure in the Emerald City, and with Geno Smith and Drew Lock battling it out for the starting job, wethinks we’re about to find out just how much that was the case. The 2022 Seahawks are playing, to a large degree, for the 2023 draft.

https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/list ... n-rodgers/

Farrar has us ranked 28th, ahead of the Falcons, Bears, Jags, and Panthers. He has the Broncos ranked 4th, behind only the Bills, Rams, and Packers. If that prediction comes true, it will likely be due to a stellar, MVP worthy performance by Russell Wilson.

So as you can see, Obi's prediction that Russell would win the MVP, unlike your 10+ win forecast for the Hawks season, is not some outlier opinion. It's supported by experts in the field that make their livings off of analyzing information of the type that we have been debating.[/quote]
Lmao . That’s funny . Donkeys 4 in the division ? That’s my pick . This ranking is hardly a majority opinion either. When discussing lazy sports journalism it’s applicable possibly even more to Wilson than Geno or the Seahawks . All this we will suck and denver will be great is based on 1 premise. Russ is still a difference maker . He’s a guy that lifts a team and elevates a roster , mr clutch . Also the premise the Seahawks roster is barren , Geno is a zero talent idiot with a weak arm .

We know a lot more about Russ than Geno . We know who both men were. We know over that last year and a half Russ wasn’t the guy he was his whole career at all . We know Geno wasn’t either last year . So let’s see if Russ can recapture his magic if he gets out of Seattle in one piece . We just have no idea what gonna happen with Geno . I don’t . You don’t . It’s likely the key to the entire season but anyone who says he can’t play or read the field or throw the ball didn’t pay attention . Last time I saw the guy in the regular season he completed 80% with a qbr of 138. Tune in on the 12th to see who 2022 Geno and Russ are . Should be educational .

[RiverDog]

Lmao . That’s funny . Donkeys 4 in the division ? That’s my pick . This ranking is hardly a majority opinion either. When discussing lazy sports journalism it’s applicable possibly even more to Wilson than Geno or the Seahawks . All this we will suck and denver will be great is based on 1 premise. Russ is still a difference maker . He’s a guy that lifts a team and elevates a roster , mr clutch . Also the premise the Seahawks roster is barren , Geno is a zero talent idiot with a weak arm .

I never said that the ranking itself was a majority opinion. I selected it at random as it was the first power ranking to pop up on my google search.

However, I will say that from what I've seen just browsing through various articles and rankings, the consensus seems to be that the Broncos are ranked in the top half of the league while the Hawks are consistently ranked in the bottom third. The point I was making is that your opinion is clearly in the minority and that Obi wasn't being outrageous when he suggested that Russell might be the MVP.

[Hawktawk]

Most would say we both are . Russ couldn’t win the MVP in 10 years winning more games than any man in that span . His game now isn’t what it was . “ risk averse with a great deep ball “ film doesn’t match the stats “ craves celebrity “ Kirk :cousins , you need 8 he gets you 7 eyes down on the rush “ these are all scouting reports from the last 2 years . Then he puts on a donkey uni and runs his mouth non stop , flies all over the world all summer leaving guys like coach Hackett and Cedric benson among others to answer questions about his schedule . Has not overwhelmed in TC in one report I’ve heard . Didn’t take a single snap in a game in preseason in a brand new offense .
But hey they gonna be #4. He better be good after all the talking but they are gonna hit a big speed bump on the opening night and if they come in and are clearly better than us I’ll tip the cap to Russ and lay down the sword and admit it’s probably a complete rebuild .

I think we have an excellent shot in the game and whatever you think of him we have a very hungry motivated guy who has truly worked his ass off to learn how to play and is making his first week 1 start in 8 years . He’s thankful , humbled , loved by his team including lock who has expressed his support . I thought they both had a cool attitude . Loved seeing Geno celebrating with the TD sign when Drew dropped that dime . I respect how hard Geno obviously has worked while in this organization and it was clear to me when he polished off a 98 yard drive cold . The guy can play . He’s not nearly as dynamic as Russ but not a statue. He doesn’t have Wilson’s arm but it’s powerful and was 3.5% more accurate . He’s played 17 quarters without a pick . 13 without a turnover of any kind . We saw the drops all preseason but he’s accurate as ever . I’m pulling for the guy . If he plays bad I’ll be calling for him to be yanked immediately .

[Aseahawkfan]

Man, our starting QB is a guy who couldn't maintain the starting job for the Jets. We look like a joke right now. We literally have the Jets castoff that couldn't even keep a position for a terrible Jets team. How did we end up from Russell Wilson to Geno Smith? What an immense drop off.

I gotta watch for a year at least a QB who couldn't keep the Jets starting job after watching the best QB in Seahawks history for ten years. A guy who only won 1 game in 3 games last year. A guy who is a barely adequate backup. Man, this is going to be one tough season.

The guy took 13 sacks in 13 quarters of play. One sack a quarter. The clown show begins on September 12. Let's hope the rest of the team is good enough to make up for it.

[RiverDog]

Most would say we both are (delusional).

I agree, and said so in my first response. But you acted as if Obi was way over the top when he said that Russell would win an MVP while your take on your 10-win minimum was the completely rational one.

[Hawktawk]

Most would say we both are (delusional).

“ I agree, and said so in my first response. But you acted as if Obi was way over the top when he said that Russell would win an MVP while your take on your 10-win minimum was the completely rational one.[/quote]
I pointed out obi called me delusional . Tit for tat . We’re both well outside the mean . Denver’s nearer the top by far right now . Let’s see after week one where Seattle and Denver and everyone else winds up .

Fun fact . Seattle was credited with more drops in this preseason than the entire regular season last year . I believe we dropped 15 in this preseason . Last year it was 4 . Geno Smith was victimized by SEVEN. A full 23.3 % of his throws were dropped and of course Fant stepping out of bounds was #8 right on the money . So maybe 30 % of his passes right in guys hands were dropped .

He was credited with a 57% completion %. Had the balls been caught he’s over 80% completions right along with the last time we saw him . I think Seattle might be deep water horizon . Excited to see it up close and see the reality . And Asea give the jets a rest OK ? Be curious to see how Russ would have fared under Rex Ryan . Might not have started . Geno was supposed to sit and learn a year under Mark Sanchez until he got hurt in the last preseason game . Geno went 8-8 as a rookie leading the League in game winning drives . The next year a rex Ryan led implosion , a broken jaw in the locker room and pfft. That’s 8 years ago . Bfd. He isn’t Russel in his prime and never will be but neither is Russ . We may well have a more consistent offense then the bomb or sack / punt we’ve seen too much of .

I guess we will have to wait and see

[RiverDog]

I pointed out obi called me delusional . Tit for tat . We’re both well outside the mean . Denver’s nearer the top by far right now . Let’s see after week one where Seattle and Denver and everyone else winds up .

OK, fair enough. So long as you admit that your opinion is well outside of the mainstream, then I'm good with it.

But I hope you realize that with the months long tirades of trash talking, rants, and chest baring bravado, that you're setting yourself up for one helluva lot of grief from members in this forum should they not come true. You're not just making predictions, you're making Joe Namath-style guarantees.

[Aseahawkfan]

OK, fair enough. So long as you admit that your opinion is well outside of the mainstream, then I'm good with it.

But I hope you realize that with the months long tirades of trash talking, rants, and chest baring bravado, that you're setting yourself up for one helluva lot of grief from members in this forum should they not come true. You're not just making predictions, you're making Joe Namath-style guarantees.

I'm sure he'll have his excuses ready. Unless you're putting money down, you lose nothing but some face. He has made no prediction he's backing up with cash, which means his predictions are worth nothing like anyone else's prediction who has no skin in the game.

I make predictions risking money investing. That's when you have skin in the game, feel the stress, and have to pay for your mistakes, sometimes a lot. Making predictions on a forum means nothing.

If he were betting in Vegas, then I would have respect for his predictions. You ain't betting money in Vegas or have money on the line, you're just running your mouth with nothing to gain or lose. You don't get credit for being right and no one cares if you're wrong.

[Hawktawk]

Yeah you’re right you get no credit in this forum . I said 9 months ago Geno played starter quality ball and caught hell ever since and he’s starting the god damn opener for Seattle and I have not had one forum member say hey, Ht you might be right . It’s a joke actually . Nailing a debate in this forum is kind of like whizzing in black pants . You get a warm feeling but nobody notices.

[NorthHawk]

No he didn't play starting caliber ball. It was at best average for a backup and that's all.
He's just not NFL starting QB material over the long term.

[Hawktawk]

No he didn't play starting caliber ball. It was at best average for a backup and that's all.
He's just not NFL starting QB material over the long term.

Any qb that completes 68.5 % , 102 qbr , 5 -1 TD to interception ratio played starter quality ball and our hall of fame coach noticed as did I as did KJ Wright “ TEam Geno all the way even if it’s Mayfield or Garropolo . So he’s trash taking clueless idiot too right ? Dude hasn’t had a pick in 17 quarters or any turnover in 13 while his supposed heir apparent had 1 per quarter in the preseason and people want to start him . If Geno is similar to who he was last year or even TC with first team hands were Ok at the position. Maybe better then last year no matter how much you pine for a guy that checked out long before March . Go Geno! Shut these lousy disrespectful fans mouths . I got your back

[NorthHawk]

He's never been able to sustain any level of success in the NFL.
He has trouble with pressure and makes too many turnovers.
Even Pete didn't give him a ringing endorsement when naming him the starter when he said:

Geno will start the opener and give us the best chance to play great football right off the bat

,

This has the same vibes as when he said we don't intend to trade Russell Wilson. He didn't even go as far as saying we're building around Geno or he's our #1.
Just that he's the starter for now.

[Aseahawkfan]

Geno Smith sucks. He's a placeholder we'll have to watch for a year or two until Pete and John find a quality QB or Pete and John are gone and another rebuild starts. He's there to take the beating while the tackles adapt to the NFL.

Geno had 13 sacks in 13 quarters of play with Duane Brown, an experienced tackle, playing. HT never mentions all the sacks Geno took. HT also never mentions the 1-2 record. Now Geno gets to deal with NFL D-lines with rook tackles figuring out starting D-lines game planning for you are a huge step up from scrub ball.

HT will be backtracking and making excuses most of this year. I'm sure we'll hear all of them before the end of the year.

[Hawktawk]

Geno Smith sucks. He's a placeholder we'll have to watch for a year or two until Pete and John find a quality QB or Pete and John are gone and another rebuild starts. He's there to take the beating while the tackles adapt to the NFL.

Geno had 13 sacks in 13 quarters of play with Duane Brown, an experienced tackle, playing. HT never mentions all the sacks Geno took. HT also never mentions the 1-2 record. Now Geno gets to deal with NFL D-lines with rook tackles figuring out starting D-lines game planning for you are a huge step up from scrub ball.

HT will be backtracking and making excuses most of this year. I'm sure we'll hear all of them before the end of the year.

I see you don’t even finish reading my stuff before launching into your wild rants . I have discussed Genos sacks numerous times . Your eyes are way too brown and you need hip waders . I see them 2 ways . First by way of explanation Geno played 9 of his 13 quarters against top competition on defense . His first start on the road against Pittsburgh he was sacked 5 times , all by TJ Watt. He was laid out several times , all by Tj watt . He had 2 or 3 tipped balls , all by Tj watt . He dropped back to pass and got tomahawk chopped on his throwing wrist hand area and still managed to grip the ball and release it to avoid a fumble . He led a 2 minute drive to get to overtime and drove within 5 yards of Fg range before being sacked . On our second possession watt stripped him . But for the violence bestowed on him 72% completion , 102 qbr. Completed balls to 10 guys . I didn’t realize we had 10 . That was an excellent backup giving an injured squad a chance and clearly playing starter quality ball . I don’t know the use . Fact and stats matter zero with the Geno haters . And if the guy can take a sack a quarter and have a 151 rating targeting DK bring it on doubters .


I feel like a Republican who rejected Trump supporting our coach and starter and defending the rag against the attacks from our tacking dummy . I was right then . I might be now . And Asea if I’m wrong I’ll go nowhere and I’ll make no excuses .you’re wrong a lot .don’t even know what I’ve written and make false accusations s

[NorthHawk]

From PFT and Carroll giving Geno another solid vote of confidence. /s
It seems Pete isn’t sold on him long term like most of us.

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2 ... always-on/

[RiverDog]

And this is why I said that Geno won the "Battle in Seattle for QB":

Smith didn’t win the competition as much as Lock lost it. Lock tested positive for COVID-19 two days before the second preseason game, which he was supposed to start. He replaced Smith early in Friday night’s third preseason game, and in 10 drives, the Seahawks scored 23 points, but he threw three interceptions.

Lock had four turnovers in two preseason games.

To be fair, at least one of those turnovers wasn't Lock's fault. Nevertheless, the fact is that Geno didn't win the job so much as Lock lost it.

[Aseahawkfan]

And this is why I said that Geno won the "Battle in Seattle for QB":

Smith didn’t win the competition as much as Lock lost it. Lock tested positive for COVID-19 two days before the second preseason game, which he was supposed to start. He replaced Smith early in Friday night’s third preseason game, and in 10 drives, the Seahawks scored 23 points, but he threw three interceptions.

Lock had four turnovers in two preseason games.

To be fair, at least one of those turnovers wasn't Lock's fault. Nevertheless, the fact is that Geno didn't win the job so much as Lock lost it.

Soon as Lock threw that third turnover, I knew he was done.

This is Pete's offense. Russell added some of his abilities to Pete's offense, but it's always been Pete's offense. A low volume, protect the ball, careful offense more focused on not turning over the ball and grinding yards with the run while throwing for explosive plays or TDs. It's not particularly innovative, but if you have the right pieces it works with a solid defense.

Lock won't be able to win back the starting job unless Geno stinks the place up or gets hurt. Pete absolutely hates turnovers more than most coaches.

[RiverDog]

And this is why I said that Geno won the "Battle in Seattle for QB":

Smith didn’t win the competition as much as Lock lost it. Lock tested positive for COVID-19 two days before the second preseason game, which he was supposed to start. He replaced Smith early in Friday night’s third preseason game, and in 10 drives, the Seahawks scored 23 points, but he threw three interceptions.

Lock had four turnovers in two preseason games.

To be fair, at least one of those turnovers wasn't Lock's fault. Nevertheless, the fact is that Geno didn't win the job so much as Lock lost it.

Soon as Lock threw that third turnover, I knew he was done.

This is Pete's offense. Russell added some of his abilities to Pete's offense, but it's always been Pete's offense. A low volume, protect the ball, careful offense more focused on not turning over the ball and grinding yards with the run while throwing for explosive plays or TDs. It's not particularly innovative, but if you have the right pieces it works with a solid defense.

Lock won't be able to win back the starting job unless Geno stinks the place up or gets hurt. Pete absolutely hates turnovers more than most coaches.

Agreed, although I think that Pete might have had his mind made up before then. If he truly wanted a completely fair competition, he would have started Lock like he was going to vs. the Bears before Lock tested positive for Covid.

Lock showed us in the preseason why Denver bailed on him. He looks really good for 90%-95% of the time but has a brain fart once or twice a game that's just a killer, like the strip sack he took vs. the Steelers and the bonehead picks he threw vs. the Cowboys.

[Old but Slow]

Just my suspicious mind at work, but I have to wonder if Pete is responsible for Wilson's lack of throwing over the middle. On throws to the sidelines, an overthrow or missed catch tends to go out of bounds. No pick. Throws over the middle like a couple that hurt Lock increase the odds of an interception because of tipped balls and overthrows. Not that Pete would not allow it, but just the friendly reminder what those nasty picks are bad.

Just a thought.

[RiverDog]

Just my suspicious mind at work, but I have to wonder if Pete is responsible for Wilson's lack of throwing over the middle. On throws to the sidelines, an overthrow or missed catch tends to go out of bounds. No pick. Throws over the middle like a couple that hurt Lock increase the odds of an interception because of tipped balls and overthrows. Not that Pete would not allow it, but just the friendly reminder what those nasty picks are bad.

Just a thought.

One thing that I noticed about Russell was that he didn't seem to be getting as deep of a drop as he had in the past, perhaps due to instruction to stay inside his tackles. DE's had figured out that nifty little reverse spin of his and seemed to be taking deeper routes to the QB and he'd reverse spin right into a sack. Or maybe he was getting a little heavy footed, who knows. But the result was that he was closer to his linemen, and at 5'10" tall, may not have had the same vision across the middle of the field as he did when he was a few feet further behind the LOS.

I have nothing to back up my theory, it's just an impression that I have.

[NorthHawk]

Just my suspicious mind at work, but I have to wonder if Pete is responsible for Wilson's lack of throwing over the middle. On throws to the sidelines, an overthrow or missed catch tends to go out of bounds. No pick. Throws over the middle like a couple that hurt Lock increase the odds of an interception because of tipped balls and overthrows. Not that Pete would not allow it, but just the friendly reminder what those nasty picks are bad.

Just a thought.

I mused about that in an earlier post and I can't remember when a Pete Carroll Offense ran any type of crossing routes. Even when we had Hass, Jackson, or even Whitehurst, I don't recall many if any throws down the middle or crossing routes.
Add to what you said about the constant drumbeat from Pete about protecting the ball coupled with a suspect OL, and game killers like late over the middle throws would be strictly verboten.

It doesn't mean this theory is correct. Maybe Wilson doesn't like to do so naturally, but it does fit the narrative of what we know about Pete's Offensive philosophy regarding protecting the ball.

[Hawktawk]

Russels game was always off schedule . I have no stats but I’m sure he used to use the whole field and he was as deadly in the pocket and out for sure . Not sure what happened . But he’s ranked 61 in the NFL network top 100 . Most people see it . For every Brady and Manning there’s a Cam Newton . Guys who burn bright then burn out . He’s going to have some big games as long as he’s in the league but he will not have enough of them . I hope Monday night is not one . If Russ comes in here and hangs up 40 I’ll accept Pete is washed up
. My guess he’s wishing he could pad up.
But this is about our Qb. Of course the competition will continue as it should . Pete said “ Geno is our WEEK ONE starter Genos done nothing in the league to grant him an extended trial period . If he takes a dump as so many promoted backups do he might not last the entire game .

But when I hear Lock more lost it then Geno won it’s just ignorance of the facts . Starting with the kickoff of Jacksonville till the end of the preseason schedule he has put over 80% of his throws on target . His last game he threw 7 passes . 3 were complete for 43 yards . 3 were dropped. 1 on a quick slant between the hashes drew a PI as Fant would still be running . So 100% on target . But yeah that guy sucks . His last turnover was at the hands of TJ watt 14 quarters ago , last Interception was in relief of Russ when Lockett got tangled up with a defender . 17 quarters ago . Drew had 4 in 4 quarters .
I don’t doubt Genos skill set or his courage . He’s not much less then Lock for arm strength and far more accurate . I wonder about his head . How he reacts . He’s been around long enough to know if he doesn’t perform he’s getting the quickest hook since the deadliest catch .
Time for the end of speculation is drawing nigh

[NorthHawk]

Apparently you didn't read or believe Pete's comments that the competition continues.
That means that Lock didn't lose it but Geno was the default winner - for now.

If Geno really did win the competition than Pete would be more definitive than a luke warm and almost apologetical statement that Geno was the man.

I still think that given we have 2 #2's at QB or maybe a #2 and a #3, we will be looking for a replacement before the season is out. Probably after the first 5 games when
we look terrible on Offense. Pete's reaction will probably be like it was when he realized Mayowa and Irvin weren't starting caliber DE's and panicked in looking for a pass
rush when we make the worst trade in Seahawks history. I expect an even worse trade for a QB.

[Hawktawk]

Genos starting so he he won the competition to start obviously . Of course he’s on a week by week basis . If he’s completing 80% 17 games from now he’s an all pro and coveted free agent . If he’s a 1-1 TD to pick guy he’s gone by halftime vs Denver . It’s if he’s so somewhere in the middle is where it’s harder . Decent stats but we lose the games . My guess is Geno either wins 2 of his first three or he’s gone . Maybe less . He’s got the physical tools to be the next Rich Gannon . It’s between the ears that’s the question although it was quite a bit last year too . Let’s just see

[RiverDog]

Genos starting so he he won the competition to start obviously . Of course he’s on a week by week basis . If he’s completing 80% 17 games from now he’s an all pro and coveted free agent . If he’s a 1-1 TD to pick guy he’s gone by halftime vs Denver . It’s if he’s so somewhere in the middle is where it’s harder . Decent stats but we lose the games . My guess is Geno either wins 2 of his first three or he’s gone . Maybe less . He’s got the physical tools to be the next Rich Gannon . It’s between the ears that’s the question although it was quite a bit last year too . Let’s just see

I doubt that Pete has that itchy of a trigger finger, not with a very unreliable relief pitcher in the bullpen. IMO Geno gets a minimum of 3 starts no matter how poorly he's playing.

In 2012, with one heck of a better option on the bench in the form of Matt Flynn, who we signed as the most sought after FA quarterback and arguably played just as good if not better than Russell in the preseason, Pete let Russell play out his first few games while posting some very below average numbers. From Russell's rookie season in 2012:

Game 1 vs. Cards: 18-34, 153 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, lost 20-16
Game 2 vs. Cowboys: 15-20, 151 yards, 1 TD 0 INT, win 27-7
Game 3 vs. Packers: 10-21, 130 yards, 2 TD (included Fail Mary), win 14-12
Game 4 vs. Rams: 17-25, 160 yards, 0 TD 3 INT, lost 19-13

Russell's first 4 game total was 60-100 for 60% completion percentage with 4 TD's and 4 INT's, which included an inflated Fail Mary game, a very bad outing in his 4th game, and a very average win-loss record of 2-2. A lot of coaches would have made a quarterback change at that point, especially given that there was a QB competition just a month earlier.

Indeed, there were multiple times in Russell's rookie season where Pete could have been very justified in making a QB change, like after the first 49'ers game when Russell went 9-23 with 0 TD's and 1 INT where he could have ended the experiment, and I remember a healthy debate in our old PI forum about that possibility following that game. IMO it wasn't until the Bears game in Week 13 when Russell really began to "get it."

[NorthHawk]

The difference is one player was learning how to play at the NFL level and the other has never developed into a starting caliber QB.
I think there is more leeway with the younger guy than the old vet who has always struggled with consistency.

[Hawktawk]

The difference is one player was learning how to play at the NFL level and the other has never developed into a starting caliber QB.
I think there is more leeway with the younger guy than the old vet who has always struggled with consistency.

One had the legion of boom to lean on . One had rex Ryan and wasn’t even supposed to start as a rookie . Forced into action by injury he went 8-8 and led the league in game winning drives . One game was a 374 yard 3 TD perfect 158.3 rating on the road in Miami . Year 2 was a team implosion 4-12 Ryan Fired . Year 3 broken jaw and sat on the pine for 8 seasons with a serious leg injury mixed in . The last 5 backed up 3 hall of fame guys including the last who never gets hurt . When he did Geno went 98 yards seemingly with ease ; put as many points and almost as many yards up in a quarter as Russ the entire second game . He added 23 yards on 3 scrambles . Russ had 2 for 10 in 3 quarters . I had no idea why he was even on the roster when he walked on the field because he was the same Geno in my eyes he still is in every doubters eyes now . I’ve been on board ever since and he’s given me no reason to get off . In his worst game vs the #3 defense saints he completed 60 % in a rainstorm , beat Lattimore for one of 4 TDs to Dk and drove the team in position to win only to have meyers miss 2 . 2 weeks after the saints shut out Tom Brady . A week after our laugher over JAx they held Buffalo to 6 points and sacked Josh Allen 4 times .

Geno never had another chance to be #1 after New York . Now he does . It’s a snowballs chance in hell but it’s a chance . I think he will make the best of it but who knows . We could have a 30 point offense if he’s good .

[RiverDog]

The difference is one player was learning how to play at the NFL level and the other has never developed into a starting caliber QB.
I think there is more leeway with the younger guy than the old vet who has always struggled with consistency.

Maybe. None of us know for sure what Pete was or will be thinking with regard to QB changes. But I do think that Geno will have a relatively long leash for the simple fact that his alternative isn't much better.

[Hawktawk]

His alternative appears to be far worse . If Geno turns into a pumpkin I’d as soon see them roll with Eason and see if they have anything there . What I saw out of Drew and I had extremely high hopes was the guy in the scouting draft report . Great arm and athleticism , prone to stupid mistakes and innacurate throws . Paraphrasing but that’s the gist . If Seattle is to be competetive next year it’s got to involve competent qb play at a minimum .

[obiken]

His alternative appears to be far worse . If Geno turns into a pumpkin I’d as soon see them roll with Eason and see if they have anything there . What I saw out of Drew and I had extremely high hopes was the guy in the scouting draft report . Great arm and athleticism , prone to stupid mistakes and innacurate throws . Paraphrasing but that’s the gist . If Seattle is to be competetive next year it’s got to involve competent qb play at a minimum .

We agree! I think Eason is the best backup we got, I would have deepsixed Lock from the very beginning!

[Hawktawk]

His alternative appears to be far worse . If Geno turns into a pumpkin I’d as soon see them roll with Eason and see if they have anything there . What I saw out of Drew and I had extremely high hopes was the guy in the scouting draft report . Great arm and athleticism , prone to stupid mistakes and innacurate throws . Paraphrasing but that’s the gist . If Seattle is to be competetive next year it’s got to involve competent qb play at a minimum .

“We agree! I think Eason is the best backup we got, I would have deepsixed Lock from the very beginning![/quote]

Everyone wanted to see it up close . I did . And I’m not conceding the guy is done . He is who Geno was at this stage . Inconsistent , inaccurate , not solid enough to win . Multiple coaching changes .

When Geno got here 4 years ago he was that guy . But I’ve dug a lot deeper than the oh that’s Geno he sucks crowd. He is reportedly a student of the game who has mastered the intricacies of every offensive and defensive concept from a knowledge standpoint . He is described as a “ coaches dream “. Obviously he’s worked on mechanics to be completing 70+ % after being a 58% passer coming out . It’s part of why he won it, he’s put in the work . Anyone who watched his 98 yard drive and doesn’t think the guy was buried in the playbook behind a guy who never missed a down before is truly unaware of the difficulty of that feat . It impresses me whether it does you or anyone else . Kj Wright lauded his 2 minute drill as one of many reasons he chose him over mayfield etc to start “ team Geno all the way !”
I’m pulling for the guy . I’m not someone rooting to lose so we don’t have to have him as our quarterback .

[RiverDog]

His alternative appears to be far worse . If Geno turns into a pumpkin I’d as soon see them roll with Eason and see if they have anything there . What I saw out of Drew and I had extremely high hopes was the guy in the scouting draft report . Great arm and athleticism , prone to stupid mistakes and innacurate throws . Paraphrasing but that’s the gist . If Seattle is to be competetive next year it’s got to involve competent qb play at a minimum .

I'm not sure if I'd say that Lock is far worse than Geno, but I agree that he doesn't give us the best chance of winning.

Eason didn't make the cut, so unless something happens to the other two, our alternative is Lock.

[obiken]

I never would never do the Suck for Luck thing as a Hawks fan. It usually never works, management will find a way to turn a dream pick into a nightmare. My question to you as a Pete lover, is how many losing seasons can Pete take? We will lose this year, in spite of your bold predictions. Then say we get a Young or Stroud, it will be another losing season to slow the game down for some rookie. IF PC doesnt win the following year, it will be thank you for your service bye bye.

[Aseahawkfan]

Pete probably has 2 or 3 years to clearly turn it around. I can't imagine management would pull the trigger on the Russell trade if they didn't plan to give him real time to turn it around.

[Hawktawk]

I dunno . I don’t think Pete has 3 years . Not sure he has 2. My feeling I can’t prove is that the team going 4-2 down the stretch with all phases of the team improved he’d be gone already . With what’s public now Russ was gone no matter what but the finish made him more valuable in trade which went beautifully imo .
I’ve said consistently Pete has a plan to win this year . It’s plausible , not easy but the cupboard is not bare . The line looks pretty good . The run game looks good . Geno was accurate and turnover free . The defense is a question. I think the pieces are there to be decent . It comes down to Hurrt imo. Talked a good game but I didn’t see a Norton defense tackle any worse . I think Pete needs to win more than he loses to get another year and he knows it . If he beats the odds and gets to a divisional with Geno smith and 2 rookie tackles he might walk away on his own terms . But I think late last year he had one foot in the grave and one on a banana peel.

[Hawktawk]

Here’s one thing Drew has going for him . A knowledgeable veteran who has walked in his shoes who will prepare him to take his job , share everything . The dudes like one another . I loved Geno celebrating . Seeing what 4 years in the organization did for Geno I’m not sure Lock can’t still be the future . He’s in a great position .

[NorthHawk]

Pete probably has 2 or 3 years to clearly turn it around. I can't imagine management would pull the trigger on the Russell trade if they didn't plan to give him real time to turn it around.

If we end up going 3-14 and the fans become indifferent things could change in a hurry. We’re already seeing signs
of apathy from the fan base, so a really bad season could be the final straw. But I think we will win just enough
for Pete to claim we’re only a few players away from championship contention.

[RiverDog]

Pete probably has 2 or 3 years to clearly turn it around. I can't imagine management would pull the trigger on the Russell trade if they didn't plan to give him real time to turn it around.

If we end up going 3-14 and the fans become indifferent things could change in a hurry. We’re already seeing signs
of apathy from the fan base, so a really bad season could be the final straw. But I think we will win just enough
for Pete to claim we’re only a few players away from championship contention.

I was just going to say that it depends on how bad it gets. If we were to go 3-14 or worse, players would start jumping the ship, ticket sales dwindle, merchandise sales tank, and sponsorship declines. Given that Pete just got through trading way one of the best players in franchise history over a perceived difference in strategy and that we had a losing season to boot, the pressure on Jody Allen to make a change will be enormous.

Our fan base is spoiled. Unlike Lions or Jets fans, we're used to winning, and if we have two consecutive losing seasons under the same coach, something that hasn't happened since the 90's, the natives are going to be restless. Pete needs to show some progress towards a rebuild THIS SEASON.

[Aseahawkfan]

If we end up going 3-14 and the fans become indifferent things could change in a hurry. We’re already seeing signs
of apathy from the fan base, so a really bad season could be the final straw. But I think we will win just enough
for Pete to claim we’re only a few players away from championship contention.

A really bad season might change things. At this point I'm not really sure what management thinks or how Jody Allen operates. We knew Paul Allen fairly well and were 100% confident that if he felt the team was heading in the wrong direction, he would fix it fairly quickly. But with the current state of ownership, I'm not sure how things will operate or how invested they are in ensuring a positive football outcome. This new ownership situation we're in is a big unknown that made a pretty big decision to allow the head coach and GM to trade away the franchise QB and start a rebuild. That move was either due to giving the head coach and GM carte blanche to start a rebuild because they are trying something bold and new or a lack of experience in allowing the head coach and GM to run the show without much oversight due to the owner lacking football management skill. I'm not sure what that decision making process was like under this new management.

I honestly believe if Paul Allen were still alive, Pete would be gone and not Russ. But there is no way to know that 100% at this point. We're basically dealing with management that isn't very experienced and is putting a lot of trust in Carroll and Schneider. How long that will last, I just don't know because I don't know anything about the new team ownership and upper management.

[RiverDog]

A really bad season might change things. At this point I'm not really sure what management thinks or how Jody Allen operates. We knew Paul Allen fairly well and were 100% confident that if he felt the team was heading in the wrong direction, he would fix it fairly quickly. But with the current state of ownership, I'm not sure how things will operate or how invested they are in ensuring a positive football outcome. This new ownership situation we're in is a big unknown that made a pretty big decision to allow the head coach and GM to trade away the franchise QB and start a rebuild. That move was either due to giving the head coach and GM carte blanche to start a rebuild or a lack of experience in allowing the head coach and GM to run the show without much oversight due to the owner lacking football management skill. I'm not sure what that decision making process was like under this new management.

I honestly believe if Paul Allen were still alive, Pete would be gone and not Russ. But there is no way to know that 100% at this point. We're basically dealing with management that isn't very experienced and is putting a lot of trust in Carroll and Schneider. How long that will last, I just don't know because I don't know anything about the new team ownership and upper management.

I agree with that. None of us know for sure what Paul Allen would do or have done, but we do know that he canned both Mora after just one season and sent Ruskell packing at the same time, so it's reasonable to conclude that if he did retain Pete after last season, that his tolerance would be pretty thin. Jody Allen is a mystery. It all depends on who she has in her inner circle and what kind of advice she's getting.