Sam Darnold: "I Feel Really Confident About Going On Saturday"

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold addresses a minor oblique issue that occurred during practice, expressing confidence about playing in Saturday's playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers (0:00). Darnold emphasizes the team's approach to treating the playoff week like any other, praising the locker room's maturity and leadership (1:06). He reflects on his playoff experience from last year, highlighting the importance of maintaining routine preparation (1:39). Darnold commends Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak's consistency and honesty (3:33), and highlights the offensive line's crucial role in sustaining long drives (3:59). The quarterback reassures that he will undergo treatment but remains optimistic about his availability for the upcoming game (4:37).

Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde shares insights on playoff preparation and team dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to opponents' strategies (0:11) while maintaining a consistent preparation process. Durde reflects on his first head coaching interview experience (1:01), highlighting the focus on leadership principles. He discusses the value of veteran players like DeMarcus Lawrence and Jarran Reed in guiding younger teammates (2:45). Durde stresses the crucial role of scout team players in game preparation (3:13) and the importance of discipline in rush and coverage coordination (4:14). He praises Coby Bryant's consistent performance (4:47) and notes Jarran Reed's growth and mental toughness throughout the season (5:02). Durde also commends head coach Mike Macdonald's approach to player development, emphasizing care and solution-oriented feedback (5:35).

Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak provided insights into the recent practices and player performances. He praised Drew Lock's progress (0:30) and mentioned Charles Cross's return to practice (1:34). Kubiak highlighted the team's improving run game over the last three games (1:18) and discussed game planning for a familiar opponent (2:01). He also touched on Jalen Milroe's development throughout the year (2:20) and briefly mentioned his recent head coaching interview experience (2:38). Kubiak emphasized the importance of the upcoming game and the team's focus on preparation (3:35). He also noted improvements in the screen game, crediting the running backs and offensive line (3:47).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the preparation for their upcoming playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. He emphasizes maintaining their regular process and viewing it as "Week 19" rather than overemphasizing the playoff atmosphere (0:13). Macdonald highlights the team's improved third-down conversion rate (1:11) and the development of complementary football across all phases (1:51). He praises the team's effort in pursuing the ball, attributing it to the players' connectedness and buy-in to the process (3:34). Macdonald also discusses the versatility of their defensive personnel, particularly praising Devon Witherspoon's growth as an outside cornerback (14:43). The coach stresses the importance of creating a positive work environment that balances seriousness with enjoyment (16:47). He mentions managing Charles Cross and Coby Bryant as they return to practice (7:49).

Seahawks defensive tackle Leonard Williams shares insights on the upcoming playoff game. He emphasizes the team's consistent preparation approach (0:44) and the impact of the home crowd, the "12s" (1:39). Williams highlights the defensive strategy of overwhelming opponents with multiple players swarming to the ball (6:35). He praises Devon Witherspoon's energy (7:31) and discusses the defense's "Dark Side" mentality (9:56). Williams expresses gratitude for his All-Pro recognition (10:35).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp shares insights on the team's recent success and playoff preparation. He emphasizes the importance of focus and attention to detail, particularly on third downs (0:16). Kupp discusses his mental preparation, including taking time away from football on Saturdays (0:40). He highlights the significance of building relationships with quarterbacks through a shared love of football (2:57). Kupp also addresses the challenges of facing consistent defensive strategies (4:05) and the impact of crowd noise in playoff games, expressing excitement for the upcoming home game atmosphere at Lumen Field (6:28). He reflects on his first playoff experience and the unique challenges of playing in an empty stadium during the 2020 pandemic season (5:46, 8:44).

Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV shares insights on the team's upcoming playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. (0:11) Jones emphasizes the importance of execution and taking the game one at a time. (1:11) He praises the defensive line's impact on the team's performance. (2:30) Jones expresses pride in his recent second team All-Pro selection. (3:44) He commends teammate Drake Thomas for his consistent performance. (4:21) Jones describes his role as the "quarterback of the defense" and the team's commitment to preventing touchdowns. (5:44) He highlights the importance of understanding the "why" behind defensive strategies, crediting head coach Mike Macdonald for this approach. (7:31) Jones explains the team's "12 as 1" philosophy, emphasizing collective effort. (8:08) He expresses excitement for the upcoming game's electric atmosphere.

Seahawks guard Grey Zabel shares insights on the team's preparation for their upcoming playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. He emphasizes the importance of running the ball successfully in the postseason, with the Seahawks achieving over 160 yards rushing in their last three games. Zabel expresses excitement about Charles Cross's return and his impact as a player and mentor. He also praises offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's leadership and football IQ. Zabel highlights the team's "win or go home" mentality for the playoffs and the importance of playing their best football at the end of the season.