Analyst Praises Seattle Running Game and Criticizes NFL Officiating

In a column for Field Gulls, an analyst describes Seattle’s latest victory as a “big gutsy win,” despite the team fielding a roster missing too many starters to count.

While the author acknowledges the win against a “mid Arizona team,” the piece characterizes the overall experience as a “painful” and “ugly” affair, labeling the game a “black mark on the NFL in general.” The author further notes that the victory was achieved with a “paltry 17 points,” which they describe as an “embarrassingly low output offensively.”

The analysis highlights the performance of the running back room as a primary positive, noting that the group “made a statement.” The author praises the “hard, angry, intentional running” of Charbonnet, suggesting he may have been the game’s MVP, and points to Price’s ability to snag passes out of the backfield as a relief.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Arizona Cardinals Highlights | 2026 Regular Season Week 9

The column also credits quarterback Drew Lock with a “gritty performance.” Despite appearing injured and managing physical limitations, the author notes that Lock executed the game plan, made timely plays, and finished with zero turnovers. Offensive coordinator Fleury received a “game ball” recommendation for his play-calling, specifically for his decision to attack Arizona’s defensive line once players went down.

Considering the team faced multiple injured quarterbacks, a shuffled offensive line, and a weakened defense missing Big Cat Williams, the author felt Fleury deserved the recognition for a “well-called game.” The author notes that the defense, while occasionally out of sync, effectively harassed opposing quarterback Minshew throughout the contest.

The author reserves harsh criticism for the league’s officiating, describing the game as an experience “completely ruined” by flags. The piece highlights a specific instance where two plays resulted in three separate penalties, leading the author to question the integrity of the game.

The column argues that the NFL has become “way, way, way to cozy with the gambling community,” prompting the author to suggest that league-wide officiating may be influenced by a desire to keep games close for gambling or viewership purposes. The author concludes that the NFL is an “entertainment league” where there is no legal requirement to manage games “fairly or accurately.”

Arizona Cardinals vs. Seattle Seahawks Game Highlights | 2026 NFL Season Week 9

Beyond the officiating, the column singles out player Devon Witherspoon for what the author calls “regrettable and painfully stupid penalties.” The piece characterizes Witherspoon’s tendency to taunt and celebrate as “cringe” and “idiocy,” urging coaching staff to address the behavior to prevent further unnecessary setbacks.

To curb this, the author suggests that head coach Macdonald should force Witherspoon to watch video of a previous “incomprehensibly stupid penalty” committed by Woolen during the NFC Championship Game for several hours.