Sam Darnold: "I Play For The Love Of The Game"

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold discusses the team's upcoming game against the Saints and their offensive performance. He emphasizes the importance of a strong start, praising the team's opening drive touchdown (0:32). Darnold highlights the value of fullbacks and tight ends in their offensive strategy (1:40, 4:30). He commends Kenneth Walker III's performance, particularly his impressive touchdown run on a 3rd and 19 play (5:29). Darnold also praises Cooper Kupp's ability to read defenses (6:40) and Jaxon Smith-Njigba's versatility as a receiver (10:07). Throughout the interview, Darnold reflects on leadership styles, his football journey, and the quarterbacks who inspired him growing up, including Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady (9:00).

Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp discusses his approach to football preparation, including attending quarterback meetings to understand their perspective (0:09). He outlines a typical day for players, starting early around 5 AM on Wednesdays (1:49). Kupp credits his father and coaches as significant influences on his career (3:24). He shares insights on working with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and the team's approach to game planning (7:40). Kupp praises quarterback Sam Darnold's steady demeanor (10:17), and expresses his own passion for football and the camaraderie it brings (12:55). He also discusses his confidence in his abilities and motivation to play, emphasizing his love for the game and the team dynamic (12:17).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald emphasizes the importance of physicality in football, discussing how the team practices it within NFL limitations (0:19). He highlights the significance of player rotation, particularly for running backs Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet (4:17). Macdonald praises cornerback Josh Jobe's improvement and work ethic (6:33), and expresses satisfaction with Byron Murphy II's recent performance (5:57). The coach also discusses the team's pass rush development and the contributions of players like Boye Mafe (12:21). Macdonald reflects on his early coaching experience with Gary Kubiak and emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and following the process (14:31). He also touches on the performances of tight end Elijah Arroyo (15:55) and offensive lineman Grey Zabel (17:22).

Seahawks defensive lineman Leonard Williams shares insights on the team's recent performance and defensive strategies. He highlights Byron Murphy II's breakout game (0:39), emphasizing the importance of confidence for interior linemen. Williams praises head coach Mike Macdonald's defensive play-calling (6:31), describing him as a "mastermind." He discusses the team's physical style of play (0:13) and their goal to take their pass rush to the next level (7:50). Williams also touches on the importance of understanding teammates and adapting strategies based on opposing quarterbacks (9:06). He concludes by expressing how the freedom to play instinctively has rekindled his enjoyment of football (12:41).

Seahawks guard Grey Zabel discusses the team's performance after the first two weeks of the NFL season. Zabel emphasizes the need to improve run blocking and quarterback protection (0:08). He praises Kenneth Walker III's impressive 3rd and 19 touchdown run (0:35). Zabel credits his smooth transition into the NFL to teammates Charles Cross and Jalen Sundell (1:02). He highlights the offensive line's goal to be the best 4th quarter team in the NFL (2:26). Zabel shares insights on the team's outside zone strategy and its wearing effect on opponents (2:59). He expresses admiration for Jalen Sundell's journey from undrafted player to starter (3:34) and mentions a group chat with fellow North Dakota State alumni in the NFL (4:45). Lastly, Zabel praises offensive line coach John Benton's experience and discusses the benefits of practicing against strong defensive teammates like Byron Murphy II and Leonard Williams (6:24).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald discusses the Seahawks' recent win, highlighting their success in limiting penalties and scoring on the opening drive (0:22). He praises the team's running game improvement in the second half and the defensive performance, particularly Byron Murphy II's standout game (3:03, 5:33). Macdonald commends the tight ends' synergy and Cooper Kupp's contribution to the offense (6:31, 8:09). He provides injury updates on Devon Witherspoon and Derick Hall (13:33) and expresses satisfaction with the backfield rotation of Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet (14:15). Lastly, Macdonald praises Sam Darnold's performance, describing him as "tough as nails" and "unflappable" (18:21).

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald praised the Seahawks' resilience in their victory against the Steelers. Despite early challenges, including turnovers and a missed field goal (0:26), the team fought back. Sam Darnold showed composure, overcoming early interceptions (3:03). The defense, despite being shorthanded in the secondary, performed well with Derion Kendrick making a game-changing interception (1:17). Kenneth Walker III's strong second-half performance and effective run-pass balance were highlighted (3:50). The coach noted improved third-down efficiency and praised Cooper Kupp's after-the-catch abilities (7:44). Macdonald also highlighted Riq Woolen's crucial effort in chasing down a player, preventing points (6:57).