Head Coach Mike Macdonald Gives Final Updates Ahead Of Week 13 vs. Vikings

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald provides updates on game preparations. (0:16) Ty Okada's status remains questionable, with a decision possible up to game time. (0:49) Cam Akers is fitting in well during his first week with the team. (1:20) Ernest Jones IV is ready to play after a strong practice week. (2:37) Macdonald discusses the opposing quarterback Max Brosmer, noting his decisiveness and accuracy. (3:45) The coach highlights the value of Kennedy Polamalu's experience with fullbacks. (5:24) Macdonald expresses satisfaction with the team's improving running game, which ranks second in the NFL over the last three weeks. (6:14)

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold discusses the upcoming game against a challenging defense (0:01). He expresses gratitude for his time in Minnesota and the growth he experienced there (0:53). Darnold highlights the importance of having answers against a team that blitzes frequently (2:23) and recalls a clutch play with teammate Cam Akers (2:42). He also shares insights on working with talented receivers like Jaxon Smith-Njigba (3:11). Darnold remains focused on his current role with the Seahawks, expressing excitement and gratitude for his new situation (4:39).

Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak discusses the team's recent performance and strategy. He emphasizes the importance of yards per play (0:34) and praises the team's execution in the run game. Kubiak mentions the addition of Cam Akers to the team (1:21) and addresses the challenges posed by Minnesota's aggressive defense (1:40). He commends quarterback Sam Darnold's performance (2:46) and decision-making, while also discussing the team's low sack count (4:18) as a collective effort. Kubiak stresses the need to spread the ball around more (5:47) and improve red zone efficiency (7:14). He talks about his sideline role in organizing the offense (7:46) and expresses his focus on winning with the Seahawks (8:47).

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde shares insights on the team's defensive strategies and player development. He highlights Byron Murphy II's growth (1:19), emphasizing the importance of experience and confidence in his improved performance. Durde discusses the team's pass-rushing philosophy (2:19), stressing the collective effort required. He praises D'Anthony Bell's recent performance (7:19) and discusses Riq Woolen's versatility (7:41). Durde also touches on the team's pressure generation in their recent game (9:05) and areas for improvement in converting pressures to sacks. Additionally, he mentions the integration of Quandre Diggs (6:43) and the importance of team-wide buy-in to their defensive approach.

Head coach Mike Macdonald provided updates on recent roster moves and player statuses. (0:18) He expressed excitement about Quandre Diggs returning to the team. (1:21) Julian Love and Ty Okada are day-to-day, with Love not practicing this week. (1:45) Cam Akers was brought in, expected to step right in due to system familiarity. (2:45) Riley Mills' practice window has opened, with the team excited to see him back. (3:32) D'Anthony Bell stepped up when Ty went down, showing physicality on defense and special teams. (4:42) Patrick O'Connell was praised for his dedication and work ethic, earning a spot on the 53-man roster. (6:56) Macdonald discussed the Vikings' defense and their approach to discouraging run plays. (8:44) He also commented on Brian Flores' blitz-heavy defensive strategy.

Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams discusses the team's defensive success and team culture. He highlights Quandre Diggs' leadership (0:08) and the team's unique distribution of sacks among players (1:00). Williams emphasizes the camaraderie within the team, mentioning Derick Hall's first sack (1:49). He explains how the defense's strong first-half performance helps them (4:41) and praises Patrick O'Connell's work ethic (5:39). Williams also discusses the importance of players accepting their roles, citing Boye Mafe as an example (6:51), and stresses the significance of establishing team identity early in OTAs and training camp (8:28). He mentions the leadership roles of veterans like Jaran Reed and DeMarcus Lawrence (7:59) in maintaining the team's course throughout the season.

Seahawks guard Grey Zabel shares insights on his Thanksgiving traditions, experiences against veteran players, and his recent injury scare. He discusses the value of facing skilled veterans at (0:33), noting how they expose weaknesses in his game. Zabel recounts his injury scare in Los Angeles at (1:40), initially fearing a season-ending injury but ultimately recovering. He emphasizes the importance of playing whenever possible at (2:46), citing Kobe Bryant's philosophy. Lastly, Zabel analyzes the challenges posed by Minnesota's defense at (3:36), highlighting their ability to hide blitzes and the athleticism of their front-line players.

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp shares insights about the Seahawks' offense and his teammates. He praises Cam Akers (0:18) as a "dangerous finisher" and "violent runner." Kupp discusses the Vikings' defense (1:02), highlighting their various pressure tactics. He commends Jaxon Smith-Njigba's performance (2:19) and describes offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's (2:58) low-key demeanor. Kupp advises young receivers (5:24) on handling the NFL's highs and lows, emphasizing the importance of focusing on one's process and execution. He also discusses the detail-oriented approach of the coaching staff (6:36) and how it helps players make decisions on the field.