Seattle Seahawks Week 12 Preview

Introduction

After a nail-biting loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 11, the Seattle Seahawks find themselves at a critical juncture in the 2023 season. With a record that leaves them hovering just above the abyss of mediocrity, the Seahawks are looking to rebound and regain their footing in the NFC West. As we dive into the numbers from last week and prepare for a daunting matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, it’s time to dissect the stats and see where the Seahawks stand.

Power Ranking

The Seahawks currently sit at a power ranking of 18, which is a stark reminder that they are treading water in the bottom half of the league. With a win rate of 50.0% against a median opponent, it’s clear that consistency has been elusive. This ranking is a reflection of the team's struggles to convert close games into victories, and it highlights the need for a more aggressive approach as they gear up for their next challenge. The upcoming game against the 49ers will be a true test of their mettle, and a chance to climb back into the playoff conversation.

Overall Drive Efficiency

The Seahawks’ overall drive efficiency ranks 27th in the league, which is less than ideal for a team with playoff aspirations. The loss to the Rams showcased this inefficiency, as they managed to accumulate 291 yards but failed to convert that into points when it mattered most. This week, the Seahawks need to focus on sustaining drives and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. With the 49ers boasting a formidable defense, the Seahawks must find a way to improve their efficiency and keep the chains moving.

Defensive Drive Efficiency

On the defensive side, the Seahawks rank a dismal 29th in defensive drive efficiency. This statistic is particularly alarming, as it indicates their struggles to prevent opposing offenses from advancing down the field. In Week 11, the Rams managed to gain 267 yards with relative ease, and the Seahawks’ inability to stop them on critical drives ultimately cost them the game. If Seattle hopes to turn things around, they must tighten up their defensive schemes and find ways to disrupt the 49ers’ offensive rhythm.

Offensive Drive Efficiency

The Seahawks’ offensive drive efficiency sits at 17th, which is a slight improvement but still leaves room for growth. While they were able to generate yardage against the Rams, their inability to finish drives with points is a glaring weakness. As they prepare to face a 49ers defense that ranks in the top tier for efficiency, the Seahawks will need to find ways to convert their drives into touchdowns rather than field goals. It’s time for the offense to step up and deliver when the stakes are high.

Defensive Turnover Efficiency

Seattle's defensive turnover efficiency ranks 12th in the league, which is a silver lining amidst a sea of struggles. The ability to generate turnovers can often swing the momentum of a game, and the Seahawks will need to capitalize on this strength against the 49ers. If they can force turnovers early and create short fields for their offense, it could be the key to turning their season around. However, they must also be wary of the 49ers’ ability to protect the ball, as they cannot afford to miss opportunities.

Offensive Turnover Efficiency

With an offensive turnover efficiency ranking of 8th, the Seahawks have shown an ability to protect the ball, which is crucial as they head into a tough matchup. However, they still need to be cautious; one or two turnovers could be the difference between victory and defeat against a team like the 49ers. Maintaining possession and making smart decisions with the football will be paramount if Seattle hopes to keep pace in this high-stakes game.

Drive Time

The Seahawks rank 11th in drive time, indicating they take a reasonable amount of time to move the ball down the field. While this can be beneficial for controlling the clock, it also suggests that they may need to pick up the pace, especially against a high-octane offense like the 49ers. Striking a balance between effective time management and urgency will be key in ensuring they don’t fall behind on the scoreboard.

Preview For Next Week

Looking ahead to Week 12, the Seahawks will face off against the San Francisco 49ers, who are favored by 7 points. The advanced simulations predict a common final score of 31-20 in favor of the 49ers, with a 69% chance of victory for San Francisco. This matchup will be a true test of the Seahawks’ resolve and ability to rise to the occasion. With an over/under of 43.5 points, it’s expected to be a high-scoring affair, and the Seahawks will need to bring their A-game on both sides of the ball. The 49ers’ top-tier defense and explosive offense present a formidable challenge, but if the Seahawks can harness their strengths and exploit the 49ers’ weaknesses, they may just pull off the upset.

Conclusion

As the Seahawks prepare for this critical matchup against the 49ers, the focus must be on improving their overall efficiency and tightening their defense. With the playoffs looming on the horizon, every game counts, and the Seahawks cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away. The time for talk is over; it’s time to put the numbers into action and play like the team we know they can be. Let’s hope they can turn the tide and make a statement in Week 12!

Stay tuned to advancedfootballstats.com for more data-driven insights and analysis as we continue to follow the Seattle Seahawks' journey throughout the 2023 NFL season.