tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5542604369128333814.post-4064622625452528342007-12-22T16:26:00.000-08:002008-01-19T08:27:22.529-08:002008-01-19T08:27:22.529-08:00The Seattle Seahawks have been struggling all season with the running game. Their once all star running back, Shaun Alexander, has not been even close to as effective this season as he has been historically.<br /><br />Many people are calling for the end of Shaun's career. Shaun has battled through injuries the past two years including a broken foot and a broken wrist. More importantly, he seems to have lost a step and maybe the desire to succeed.<br /><br />In his absence, Maurice Morris has filled in admirably, but the Seahawks continue to struggle week in and week out in the running game.<br /><br />Shaun is back in the starting line up and Maurice is healthy, but last week showed again how week this team is in it's running game.<br /><br />Knowing this, coach Mike Holmgren has shifted to a pass 1st run 2nd style of offense and with the exception of last weeks game against the Panthers, it has worked fairly well.<br /><br />The key to their success now lies with quarterback Matt Hasselbeck. When he is on, he is dangerous. This is one of his better years as well. He has looked sharp for most of this season with the exception of a couple of games such as against New Orleans and last week against the Carolina Panthers.<br /><br />When Matt is throwing accurately and making good decisions, the offense has been able to move the ball in spite of the running problems. If Seattle is going to be able to do anything positive come playoff time, Matt and his receivers will have to carry the load.<br /><br />A big part of Matt's success lies with his offensive line. They cannot open holes for the run, but they have been getting slowly better at giving Matt adequate pass protection. This is probably the most important part of the Seahawks offense.<br /><br />So can the Hawks make some waves without pounding the ball with the running game? Maybe.anoreply@blogger.com0