By Khalid Bennett, The Seattle Medium
After a triumphant road win against the Detroit Lions, the Seattle Seahawks returned to Lumen Field with a determination to reclaim their home field advantage. The last time they played at home against the Rams left a sour taste in their mouths, and they were determined not to repeat that experience.
The matchup against the Carolina Panthers was highly anticipated, but the Seahawks had to face the game without the #1 overall pick in this year’s draft, Bryce Young, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury. Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, who previously started for New Orleans, stepped in to face Seattle, boasting a 2-1 record against the Seahawks in his career. Geno Smith, who had a stellar performance in the recent Detroit game, aimed to continue his momentum and secure back-to-back victories.
“The last time we came out here with the Rams left a bad taste in our mouth…we didn’t want to be repeat offenders,” expressed DK Metcalf, emphasizing the team’s determination to perform better at home.
The first half of the game resembled a soccer match, with the only scoring coming from the kickers. Seattle’s Jason Meyers went 4-4 on field goals during the first half, keeping the Seahawks in the game. Carolina managed to reach the end zone in the second quarter, securing a one-point halftime lead, with a score of 13-12 in favor of the Panthers.
Jason Meyers extended his perfect field goal streak with another successful kick in the third quarter, giving the Seahawks a lead. Running back Kenneth Walker III then found the end zone, scoring the first touchdown for Seattle late in the quarter, increasing their lead to 22-13.
Carolina wasn’t ready to give up, as they began the fourth quarter with a touchdown drive to narrow the gap to two points. However, Seattle’s offense, led by Geno Smith, took control of the game. Despite missing both starting tackles and losing guard Damien Lewis, the Seahawks’ offensive line held strong. Geno Smith completed almost every pass in the second half, connecting with his targets efficiently. The running game, featuring Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, added to the team’s offensive firepower.
The energy at Lumen Field was electric, with the 12th Man making their presence felt. The crowd noise disrupted the Panthers’ offense, resulting in an astonishing nine pre-snap penalties for Carolina, including eight false starts and an illegal shift – the most in the NFL since 2011.
“The 12s showed up and showed out,” linebacker Jordyn Brooks praised the fans after the game.
“What a great factor. It felt like it feels like to be here. It’s a thrill for our young guys who hadn’t heard it like that and understand why we talk about it and why it’s a factor…we give a lot of credit to our fans being a part of this game,” said head coach Pete Carroll following the game.
Seattle dominated late in the game, at one point holding a 17-point lead with just over four minutes remaining. Although the Panthers managed to reduce the lead to ten points, it was too little, too late.
The Seahawks scored 25 points in the second half and emerged victorious with a final score of 37-27, improving their season record to 2-1.
Overcoming injuries to key offensive linemen, running back Kenneth Walker III emphasized the mentality, highlighting the depth and versatility of the team.
“We always say next man up and we know that everyone on this team can block so I feel like that’s important,” said running back Kenneth Walker about losing members of the offensive line to injuries.
The Seahawks now prepare for two consecutive road games against the New York Giants and the Cincinnati Bengals before heading into their bye week.
