The Addicts Have Spoken

by: Michael Steffes

At least some of you have. In fact, 57% of you want the Hawks to win on Thursday versus the Boys more than any other game this season. It looks dicey at best, especially with the way former Pro Bowl QB Matt Hasselbeck has been playing. However, the Boys' result yesterday was a bit misleading. Had the Niners punched the ball in from inside the 5 in either or both of their early chances, they may have put the Cowboys on the ropes. Instead, they settled for field goals and soon resumed being the Niners, fumbling snaps and throwing interceptions in the end zone. So, can we expect any different from the Hawks?

Since Matt has come back, the offense has had a bit more life to it. It has come at a price though, as the Hawks are turning the ball over at a rate that few teams can win with. If they limit the turnovers, the Boys' secondary may allow some completions. Plus, the Hawks will have a highly motivated Julius Jones in the backfield, assuming Holmgren decides his play is worthy of more than 3-5 carries.

The team ran the ball well yesterday, so let's hope that continues. Despite another new combination up front, the team was successful on the ground. This is proof that Mike Solari's system is the foundation of a promising running game in the future. Now, if we could only get Mike Holmgren to use the run to set up the pass, instead of the other way around. Right now, the only thing the pass is setting up is third and long, usually with a lot of three-and-outs.

The Seahawks rose to the occasion in San Fran and Miami. Surprisingly, they are playing better on the road this year than at home. Maybe this bodes well for Thursday? It would certainly make for a Happy Turkey Day! ~END~