The Seattle Seahawks have had an impressive start to the 2024 NFL season, sitting atop the NFC West with a 3-0 record as they head into Week 4.
A major surprise this season has been the Seahawks’ rejuvenated defense, thanks to first-year head coach Mike McDonald. However, Seattle’s aggressive defense suffered a blow in their Week 3 win over the Miami Dolphins, with two key players—Leonard Williams and rookie Byron Murphy II—sustaining injuries.
Williams left the game due to a midsection injury, while Murphy II went out with a hamstring issue. There are currently no updates on when either player will return.
As vital pass-rushers, Williams and Murphy II are crucial to the Seahawks’ pass defense. In the first three games, Williams has registered six tackles, eight quarterback hits, 1.5 sacks, and 11 pressures. Murphy II has posted four solo tackles, one sack, six QB hurries, and seven pressures.
Despite their defensive strength, the Seahawks have shown a weakness against the run this season. Their Week 4 opponent, the Detroit Lions, boasts the league’s fourth-best rushing and overall offense, averaging an impressive number of yards per game.
Seattle currently ranks 15th in rush defense, and with two starting defensive linemen potentially sidelined, the Seahawks face a tough challenge.
If the Seahawks’ pass rush is diminished in the upcoming “Monday Night Football” game, Lions quarterback Jared Goff could find his rhythm. Goff is dangerous when confident, and Detroit’s receiving corps is capable of exploiting any defensive lapse. If Goff has time to throw, Seattle’s secondary will be put to the test.
To secure a win, the Seahawks must limit the Lions’ offense to primarily passing plays. This approach has worked so far this season, allowing Seattle’s offense to build early leads and forcing opponents to rely on their passing game. This shift lets Seattle focus on defending the pass while daring opponents to run.
However, this strategy hinges on a strong pass-rush. If the quarterback isn’t pressured, the plan falls apart. With the status of Williams and Murphy II up in the air for Monday night, the Seahawks’ remaining pass-rushers may see fewer opportunities.
Linebackers Boye Mafe and Tyrel Dodson have been standout performers this season, combining for 35 tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble.
Both Mafe and Dodson are frequently deployed on quarterback blitzes and thrive when gaps are created by Williams and Murphy II.
Their presence creates problems for opposing offensive lines, which are forced to focus on them, allowing Mafe and Dodson to find open lanes to the quarterback. This often forces tight ends and running backs to stay in to block.
If Williams or Murphy II are unavailable for the Lions game, the Seahawks’ defense could face a significant challenge.
