Seahawks' 'Dark Side' Defense Propels Team to Super Bowl

Seattle's stifling defensive unit has been critical to the team's success this season.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 9:23pm

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The Seattle Seahawks' defense, nicknamed the 'Dark Side,' has been a driving force behind the team's run to the Super Bowl. Led by a well-rounded unit without any true stars but few weaknesses, the Seahawks' defense has been elite at several levels, from a stingy run defense to a ball-hawking secondary. Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald's aggressive scheme and the team's depth have been key factors in the defense's success.

Why it matters

The Seahawks' defense has drawn comparisons to the legendary 'Legion of Boom' teams of the 2010s, but the current group is determined to forge its own identity. This defense has been critical in helping the Seahawks return to the Super Bowl, where they will have a chance to win their second championship.

The details

The 'Dark Side' nickname was chosen by the defensive leaders during the offseason, a nod to Seattle's gloomy weather and the deafening crowd noise at Lumen Field. The defense is a well-rounded unit without any true stars, but it has excelled in several key areas, including finishing the regular season as the NFL's stingiest scoring defense, ranking in the top seven in sacks and interceptions, and limiting opposing passing attacks despite injuries in the secondary.

  • The 'Dark Side' nickname was chosen during OTAs or training camp in the summer of 2025.
  • The Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl on Sunday.

The players

Jarran Reed

A Seattle Seahawks lineman who was involved in the discussions to choose the 'Dark Side' nickname for the defense.

Nehemiah Pritchett

A reserve cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks who did not want the defense to be compared to the 'Legion of Boom' teams of the 2010s.

Boye Mafe

An edge rusher for the Seattle Seahawks who takes pride in the fact that the defense has no true weak links.

Nick Emmanwori

A versatile rookie safety for the Seattle Seahawks who has played beyond his years in his first season.

Ernest Jones IV

A linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks who is the vocal leader of the defense.

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What they’re saying

“We had an identity, but we had to find a name.”

— Jarran Reed, Seahawks lineman (sfgate.com)

“We kind of wanted our own thing, so, the Dark Side just kind of stuck.”

— Nehemiah Pritchett, Seahawks reserve cornerback (sfgate.com)

“It's very rare that you can say that about your defense, that you can say that about your team that you feel there's no weak links. So, as you have that opportunity, it's one of those things where you just have to seize the moment.”

— Boye Mafe, Seahawks edge rusher (sfgate.com)

“Nick's done a tremendous job since he walked in the door, shoot, since we brought him in for a visit pre-draft. I think what's great about Nick is you can see the physical talent, the physical ability. But his eagerness to learn, and the sense of urgency for detail and his hunger to be great really stands out.”

— Mike Macdonald, Seahawks defensive coordinator (sfgate.com)

“They just do a great job, and make it really hard on the offense.”

— Sam Darnold, Seahawks quarterback (sfgate.com)

What’s next

The Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl on Sunday, where they will have a chance to win their second championship.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' 'Dark Side' defense has been the driving force behind the team's run to the Super Bowl, showcasing a well-rounded unit with few weaknesses. This defense has forged its own identity, separate from the legendary 'Legion of Boom' teams, and will look to lead Seattle to a second Super Bowl title.