Jay Harbaugh: "Preseason Is A Huge Deal For Us"

Geno Smith discusses the Seattle Seahawks' first win of the season against the Denver Broncos. Despite a rough start (0:00), including an interception, the team remained poised and made crucial adjustments. Smith praises the electric home crowd (0:09) and the defense's strong performance. He highlights the effective run game (1:08), particularly Kenneth Walker III's impact (1:29), and the offensive line's improvement. Smith also commends Tyler Lockett's clutch performance (2:54) and Zach Charbonnet's touchdown (4:41). The quarterback expresses joy for head coach Mike Macdonald's first NFL win (5:14) and reflects on his personal growth since 2022 (5:55).

In the season opener, the Seattle Seahawks secured a win despite early challenges. Head Coach Mike Macdonald praised the team's composure and adjustments, particularly in the second half (0:55). The offensive line improved, with Kenneth Walker III running effectively (1:08). Macdonald highlighted Tyler Lockett's crucial plays (2:31) and the defense's strong red zone performance (7:18). He also commended Riq Woolen's impressive interception (10:25) and Julian Love's team-effort pick (10:58). The coach emphasized the importance of closing out games and the electric atmosphere at the stadium (9:23). Macdonald expressed pride in the team's effort, attitude, and togetherness, noting areas for improvement as they prepare for their next game against New England.

Cornerback Riq Woolen discusses his crucial interception in the Seahawks' season opener. (0:07) Woolen describes the game as a fun, fresh start and a new beginning for the team. (0:43) He mentions teasing his teammates about catching the ball when it counts, following a similar play in preseason. (1:10) Woolen explains that the game felt like practice due to their hard training, making the interception feel second nature. (1:47) He compares this interception to a previous one in Detroit, noting the similarity in the route. (2:06) Woolen expresses his high expectations for himself, believing he should make such plays due to his hard work and unique abilities. (2:41) He emphasizes his approach of not overthinking, focusing on alignment and assignment.

Linebacker Tyrel Dodson discusses the Seahawks' defensive performance in their season opener. He praises the team's resilience, especially in tough red zone situations (0:32). Dodson highlights the importance of communication and preparation, mentioning his pre-game signal practice (1:30). He commends the team's tackling, crediting precise angles and trust among players (2:56). Dodson also speaks highly of playing alongside Jerome Baker (3:43) and expresses his vision for an even stronger defense that doesn't allow any scoring (4:30). He emphasizes the need for consistency and improvement, stating that great defenses don't let anyone score (4:39).

Zach Charbonnet discusses the Seahawks' impressive second-half performance, highlighting key plays and players. At (0:11), he mentions overcoming first-half penalties and mistakes. Kenneth Walker III's electric performance (0:52) sparked the offense. Charbonnet emphasizes the importance of practice in perfecting deep wheel routes for running backs (1:24). He praises Tyler Lockett's game-sealing catch (1:43) and notes an increased emphasis on pass-catching for running backs in the current offense (2:18). The interview concludes with Charbonnet commending Geno Smith's 34-yard run, showcasing his speed (2:33).

In the Seahawks' season opener, safety Julian Love highlighted the defense's strong performance. (0:12) The defense made crucial red zone stops, holding the opponent to field goals after turnovers. (1:22) Love emphasized the team's strategy of playing top-down defense and tackling well against a rookie quarterback. (2:52) He praised the safety group's impact, including K'Von Wallace's forced fumble and Riq Woolen's interception. (4:33) Love noted Woolen's exceptional speed and play-making ability. (5:00) The team maintained high energy throughout the game, unlike last season's opener. (6:06) Love concluded by acknowledging head coach Mike Macdonald's first win, emphasizing the team-first mentality.

Head Coach Mike Macdonald discusses the Seahawks' preparation for their season opener. (0:00) Macdonald emphasizes the importance of continued preparation in the 48 hours before the game. (0:27) He notes adjustments to the team's weekly cadence, particularly on defense. (1:03) The coach addresses communication strategies, including the use of crowd noise in practice. (2:04) Macdonald expresses confidence in linebacker Jerome Baker's return from injury. (2:29) He highlights the importance of off-field bonding between players, particularly Baker and Tyrel Dodson. (3:31) Macdonald outlines his pre-game preparations, including finalizing game plans and situational strategies. (5:03) He discusses the importance of spacing in defense and much more after Friday's practice at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center.