Head Coach Mike Macdonald On Super Bowl Preparations & The Importance Of The Team's Culture

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the Seahawks' preparations for the Super Bowl, emphasizing the team's focus on daily improvement and maintaining established routines. He highlights the importance of team culture, praising players like Brady Russell for his contributions to special teams. Macdonald commends Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak's team-first approach and the special teams' impact under coach Jay Harbaugh. He notes the team's improved turnover margin in recent games and discusses the challenges of game-planning for the Patriots, including containing quarterback Drake Maye.

Seahawks president of football operations and general manager John Schneider discusses the team's recent success and future outlook. He emphasizes the importance of daily improvement and strong organizational culture. Schneider highlights key player acquisitions like Sam Darnold and DeMarcus Lawrence, and praises head coach Mike Macdonald's leadership. He reflects on building the current roster, including draft picks like Devon Witherspoon and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Schneider also discusses the importance of re-signing cornerstone players like Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas. He notes the team's preparation for the upcoming Super Bowl against the Patriots, while acknowledging the challenges posed by other strong teams in the league.

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp discusses the NFC Championship victory and their upcoming Super Bowl appearance. (0:00) He expresses excitement about sharing the win with teammates and families. (1:14) Kupp praises quarterback Sam Darnold's performance and reflects on a crucial third-down play. (6:36) He compares this Super Bowl experience to his previous ones, emphasizing the importance of maintaining routine. (10:13) Kupp reveals he was the third or fourth option on his touchdown catch. (11:52) He highlights Ernest Jones' leadership in supporting Darnold after a tough game. (13:34) Kupp commends Jaxon Smith-Njigba's growth throughout the season.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the Seahawks' preparations for the Super Bowl following their NFC Championship victory. He emphasizes maintaining their regular process while adapting to new logistics (0:13). Macdonald praises the team's collective effort in the win, highlighting Sam Darnold's performance under pressure (4:36) and Kenneth Walker III's impactful runs (4:52). He addresses the challenges of relocating for Super Bowl practice (6:19) and managing players' focus amidst the excitement. Macdonald commends key defensive plays, particularly Devon Witherspoon's crucial pass breakups in the red zone (11:39). He also discusses the importance of integrity and steadfastness in the team's approach (12:36).

In a post-game interview, quarterback Sam Darnold discusses the Seahawks' NFC Championship victory. (0:02) Darnold emphasizes the complete team effort, highlighting key plays from offense, defense, and special teams. (1:04) He credits extensive situational practice for the team's success in crucial moments. (2:17) Darnold praises Cooper Kupp's leadership and Jaxon Smith-Njigba's impressive catches. (3:46) He expresses gratitude for his teammates' and coaches' support, reflecting on his growth since his early career struggles. (5:24) Darnold mentions Jake Bobo's crucial touchdown and third-down conversion. (6:19) He acknowledges the significance of reaching the Super Bowl, emphasizing the team's hard work and day-by-day approach to improvement.

Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba shares his thoughts after a crucial victory that propelled the team to the Super Bowl. He praises quarterback Sam Darnold's leadership (1:19) and highlights Cooper Kupp's clutch performance (2:13). Smith-Njigba emphasizes the team's collective effort and the importance of their complementary passing game (4:22). He reflects on overcoming divisional rivals (4:56) and expresses confidence in the team's special potential, which he recognized early in practice sessions (5:24). The wide receiver also commends cornerback Devon Witherspoon's crucial plays in the final moments of the game (6:02). Smith-Njigba recalls watching his first Super Bowl featuring Larry Fitzgerald and the Steelers (3:46) and expresses his readiness to give everything for the team's success.

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV shares his excitement after winning the NFC Championship. (0:01) He praises quarterback Sam Darnold's performance, highlighting his approximately 300-yard game. (0:27) Jones emphasizes the defense's "protect the blade of grass" mentality. (0:55) He discusses the team's culture and resilience, particularly after a crucial penalty. (2:19) Jones expresses happiness for teammate Cooper Kupp's success. (4:35) He concludes by noting that the victory over the league's #1 offense boosts their confidence for the Super Bowl against the Patriots. (4:56)

Seahawks safety Julian Love shares his thoughts on the team's NFC Championship victory. (0:08) Love describes the win as surreal and praises the team's unity. (1:10) He highlights cornerback Devon Witherspoon's crucial plays in the red zone. (1:51) Love commends rookie Nick Emmanwori's humble approach to the playoffs. (2:47) He defends quarterback Sam Darnold's performance, citing his hard work and leadership. (3:48) Love emphasizes the team's diverse perspectives and strong camaraderie. (5:26) He explains his role in maintaining team morale.