Macdonald and his team emphasize the importance of all phases of football, including special teams. “I can’t speak for everyone, but I’ve been on teams where special teams play a crucial role,” he said. He learned this under coach John Harbaugh and continues to embrace that philosophy.
In a recent overtime win for the Seahawks, Rashid Shaheed’s punt return touchdown sparked the team’s momentum. Safety Julian Love noted, “Rashid brought energy to the game. Our special teams felt like a weapon today.” With Shaheed on the team, there’s a renewed focus on special teams, as he has the ability to change the game single-handedly.
Shaheed explained, “We targeted the left side for a return all week. They had some weak spots, and we capitalized.” His recent success makes him the only player this season with both kick and punt return touchdowns, joining notable Seahawks like Tyler Lockett and Nate Burleson.
Macdonald credited special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh for the team’s achievements. He praised Jay and assistant coach Devin Fitzsimmons for their innovative coaching style and their ability to give players an edge. “They aren’t afraid to take calculated risks. That’s invaluable,” he added.
While Macdonald didn’t disclose the specific strategy behind the successful punt return, he highlighted the effectiveness of combining sound techniques with smart decision-making. When players execute well, special teams can create impactful moments.
This year has been significant for the Seahawks’ special teams, with Shaheed named Special Teams Player of the Week in Week 14 and kicker Jason Myers receiving accolades for Special Teams Player of the Month in November and Player of the Week in Week 15.
Recent studies in sports psychology suggest that effective special teams can boost a team’s overall morale and performance. It’s not just about scoring; it’s about how every player contributes to the game’s energy and success.
The strategic value of special teams is becoming more recognized in the NFL, showcasing how critical these plays can be in the broader context of a game.
Source link
News: Stories,News: National Feature,Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks (2025-REG-16),Homepage Hero
