Mike Macdonald Prepares for Key Game in Short Week: Monday Insights
Mike Macdonald is gearing up for an important game as the Seattle Seahawks face a condensed schedule this week. With a Saturday night matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, the Seahawks are adapting their preparation to fit this unique timeline.
Adapting Preparation for a Short Week
Typically, NFL teams start their practice weeks on Wednesday before a Sunday game. However, the Seahawks are modifying their schedule due to the Saturday night game. They will travel on Friday for this West Coast trip, leading to a blend of routines from a standard week and those planned for a Thursday game.
Macdonald explained, “It’s like a Thursday-Sunday combo.” He emphasized the importance of balancing player recovery with practice intensity. The team will begin light practices on Tuesday, adjusting to the early schedule while aiming to maintain adequate preparation.
Injury Updates Ahead of Key Game
Injury concerns remain for the Seahawks as they head into the game. Pro-Bowl returner Rashid Shaheed sustained a concussion in last Sunday’s match. While Macdonald noted that Shaheed is feeling better, his availability will depend on the league’s concussion protocol, which will not be resolved until later in the week.
Additionally, safety Coby Bryant (knee) and left tackle Charles Cross (hamstring) missed last week’s game, with no updates on their status yet. Macdonald stated, “We just don’t have an update on timeframes,” indicating uncertainty regarding their return.
Quarterback Performance
Sam Darnold’s recent performance was not his strongest, completing 18 of 27 passes for 147 yards. He had one touchdown and one interception, contributing to two turnovers. However, Macdonald acknowledged Darnold’s ability to make crucial plays when necessary, including a touchdown pass to AJ Barner.
“He did what we needed to win the game,” Macdonald noted, recognizing that certain plays could have easily gone either way, affecting Darnold’s overall numbers.
AJ Barner: A Key Contributor
AJ Barner has emerged as a vital player for Seattle’s offense this season. In last Sunday’s game, he recorded three receptions for 43 yards, including a touchdown, solidifying his role in critical moments. He has surpassed 500 receiving yards this season, ranking as the team’s third-leading pass catcher.
Macdonald praised Barner for his hard work and development, stating, “He’s a spark plug. He’s a catalyst for our offense.” His efforts extend beyond receiving, as he also contributes significantly in blocking situations.
Addressing Offensive Slow Starts
Despite recent struggles, the Seahawks continue to lead the NFL in point differential, primarily due to their strong defense. However, their offense has faced challenges, often starting slowly. Macdonald noted that pinpointing a single cause for these slow starts is difficult, but the team remains committed to addressing these issues.
- Week 14: Tied 6-6 at halftime
- Week 15: Trailed 13-6
- Week 16: Behind 13-7
- Week 17: Tied 3-3
“We just got to keep attacking it,” Macdonald said, emphasizing the need for effective execution and preparation to overcome these offensive challenges.
