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Seahawks' Defense Dominates Super Bowl with Blitz Masterclass
Mike Macdonald's unit stifles Patriots' offense in 29-13 victory
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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The Seattle Seahawks' defense, led by defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, delivered a dominant performance in the Super Bowl, stifling the New England Patriots' offense with a relentless blitz scheme that featured linebacker Devon Witherspoon. Witherspoon's timely sacks and a crucial forced fumble that was returned for a touchdown by Uchenna Nwosu sealed the Seahawks' 29-13 victory and their first Super Bowl championship since the Legion of Boom era.
Why it matters
The Seahawks' defensive masterclass showcased the team's ability to adapt and evolve beyond the Legion of Boom, cementing their status as one of the league's premier defensive units. Macdonald's innovative game plan and the players' execution highlighted the team's depth and versatility, which could make them a force to be reckoned with in the coming seasons.
The details
Macdonald dialed up six different variations of a nickel blitz, sending Witherspoon on a relentless pursuit of Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. Witherspoon's sack in the first quarter set the tone, and his devastating hit that forced a fumble in the fourth quarter, which was returned for a touchdown by Nwosu, effectively sealed the Seahawks' victory.
- With 3:33 remaining in the first quarter, Witherspoon sacked Maye on 3rd and 15, stalling a Patriots drive.
- With 4:27 remaining in the game, Witherspoon's hit on Maye forced a fumble that was intercepted by Nwosu and returned for a 45-yard touchdown.
The players
Mike Macdonald
The Seahawks' defensive coordinator, known for his innovative and aggressive game plans.
Devon Witherspoon
The Seahawks' star linebacker, who delivered a dominant performance with timely sacks and a crucial forced fumble.
Uchenna Nwosu
The Seahawks' linebacker, who intercepted the fumble forced by Witherspoon and returned it for a touchdown.
Drake Maye
The Patriots' quarterback, who struggled to find success against the Seahawks' stifling defense.
Sam Darnold
The Seahawks' quarterback, who delivered a strong performance to lead his team to victory.
What’s next
The Seahawks' defensive success in the Super Bowl has raised expectations for the team's future, and fans are eager to see if they can maintain this level of dominance in the coming seasons.
The takeaway
The Seahawks' defensive masterclass in the Super Bowl showcased the team's ability to adapt and evolve beyond the Legion of Boom era, cementing their status as one of the league's premier defensive units. Macdonald's innovative game plan and the players' execution highlighted the team's depth and versatility, which could make them a force to be reckoned with in the coming seasons.
