The Seattle Seahawks are a team with a storied history of thrilling performances and controversial decisions, and the 2024 season has been no exception. Amid the highs and lows, a significant debate has emerged among fans, analysts, and even former players: the play-calling strategy on both sides of the ball. At the forefront of this discussion is Michael “Bump” Bumpus, former Seahawks wide receiver and current sports analyst, who has offered valuable insights into the nuances of the team’s approach.
Bump’s analysis delves deeper than mere criticism or praise; he explores the layers of complexity that define the Seahawks’ play-calling strategy and the factors influencing it. His perspective has shed light on key aspects of the team’s performance, helping fans better understand the decisions that drive the team’s success—or lack thereof—on game days.
One of the central points of contention surrounding the Seahawks’ play-calling is their reliance on a run-first philosophy, even in situations where the modern NFL seems to favor a more aggressive, pass-heavy approach. Offensive coordinator Shane Waldron has leaned heavily on establishing the ground game with running backs Kenneth Walker III and rookie standout Zach Charbonnet.
Bump acknowledges the value of a strong run game, noting how it helps control the clock, set the tempo, and create manageable third-down situations. However, he also highlights the downside of predictability, particularly when the Seahawks struggle to gain early yardage on the ground. “When defenses know what’s coming, they stack the box and force Geno Smith to beat them in obvious passing situations,” Bumpus explained on a recent podcast.
This predictability has led to criticism of Waldron, with some fans arguing that the Seahawks aren’t taking full advantage of Geno Smith’s abilities or their talented receiving corps, which includes DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and rookie sensation Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Bump suggests that while the offensive strategy has its merits, it may need more balance and creativity to maximize the team’s potential.
On the other side of the ball, defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt has faced scrutiny for his situational play-calling. The Seahawks’ defense has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with young stars like Devon Witherspoon and Tariq Woolen in the secondary, but they’ve also struggled with consistency in key moments.
Bump has pointed out the challenge of finding the right balance between aggressive blitz packages and conservative zone coverage schemes. “The Seahawks have the talent to play man coverage and get after the quarterback, but they’ve been hesitant to commit to that identity,” Bumpus said. “It’s almost as if they’re trying to play it safe, and that’s costing them in critical situations.”
Bump also highlighted the importance of personnel deployment, particularly in how the Seahawks utilize their hybrid defenders like Jamal Adams. “Adams is at his best when he’s near the line of scrimmage, disrupting plays and making tackles for loss. If you’re not using him that way, you’re not getting the most out of his unique skill set,” Bump noted.
While it’s easy to critique play-calling in hindsight, Bump emphasizes the importance of context. Injuries, matchups, and game flow all play significant roles in shaping a coordinator’s decisions. For example, the Seahawks’ offensive line has dealt with injuries throughout the season, forcing adjustments in protection schemes and limiting their ability to execute deep passing plays.
Similarly, Bump acknowledges that defensive play-calling often depends on the game script. “If the offense isn’t putting up points, the defense is forced to take more risks to create turnovers. It’s a domino effect,” he explained.
As the Seahawks push toward the end of the regular season, the play-calling debate will undoubtedly continue to be a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Bump believes the key to success lies in adaptability and trust. “You have to trust your players to make plays, whether that means airing it out on third-and-long or sending an extra blitzer on defense. The best teams are the ones that aren’t afraid to evolve,” he said.
Bump’s analysis offers a balanced perspective on the Seahawks’ play-calling, acknowledging both its strengths and areas for improvement. As the team looks to secure a playoff spot, the ability to strike the right balance between strategy and execution will be critical.
For now, fans can take solace in the fact that voices like Bumpus are providing thoughtful, informed commentary, helping to elevate the discourse surrounding one of the most passionate fanbases in the NFL. Whether the Seahawks can adjust and rise to the occasion remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the debate is far from over.