you mad bro?”
A quote that describes the rivalry between the Patriots and Seahawks very well. Lets indulge a bit into this somewhat new hatred for one another.
In 2012 the Seahawks led by rookie Russell Wilson, hosted the #1 Offense in the NFL. What many expected to be a blowout eventually turned into a stunning upset by an up and coming Seattle squad. Before the game quarterback Tom Brady allegedly told cornerback Richard Sherman and safety Earl Thomas to “come see me” after the game when the Pats win, a regretful decision for #12.
After the Pats squandered a 14-point lead late in the 4th, Russell Wilson and his comeback magic came to fruition. As Earl Thomas put it, “If guys didn’t believe in him before, I guarantee they will now.” Known for his ability to scramble, Wilson proved he is more than just a read option QB. Tossing a 46 yard TD to Sidney Rice with little over a minute remaining, the rookie capped off a shocking rally to take the lead and ultimately the matchup.
With the comments from Tom Brady still fresh in the minds of the Seattle secondary, Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas used the harsh words to their advantage. Picking off the legendary QB one time each, they both got their proverbial jabs in for the prior disbelief brought on by the entire Patriots team. Unable to muster any kind of offense towards the end of the game, The ‘Hawks shut down the Pats potent pass attack and silenced the elite giant that is Tom Brady. After the game Richard Sherman made a B-line to the New England QB, prompting the ever popular meme with the catchphrase mentioned before.
Since that nail biter two years ago much has changed for both teams. The only option left for Brady that existed just two years ago is Rob Gronkowski, that with a new RB and a totally different secondary when he takes his seat on the sideline. As for Seattle they are in the exact same boat. Wilson’s only remaining targets are Doug Baldwin and MarShawn Lynch, A complete rearrangement in the supporting cast for the 3rd year QB. Though the players have varied the outcomes haven’t. Seattle went on a dominant run following the Pats win, and won the Super Bowl the very next year. New England has been on top of the AFC since than, minus the postseason when the dreaded Baltimore Ravens ejected them on their way to their 2nd Lombardi.
One X factor that cannot be overlooked and most likely won’t be, is the arrival of recent SB champ and former Seahawk, Brandon Browner. An all star in the CFL up north, Browner found his way to the NFL through hard work and a common Seahawks requirement, the chance to prove people wrong. Failing two drug tests in his short career, Brandon missed out on the Super Bowl game last winter. Although he had his name etched in that chanpionship roster, one can assume that he has much more to gain from this attempt at footballs holy grail. After inking a 3-year deal with the Patriots this past offseason, he has found his path to success. Starting at cornerback next to Revis Island, Browner has made quite the impact this year. He is very familiar with the playbooks and looks of the opposing Seahawks, prompting coaching staff to approach Brandon with serious attempts at insider information. Hopefully squeezing out all types of details surrounding the Seattle Offense.
