Mike Macdonald, Seattle Seahawks establish identity in win against Steelers

In a game that garnered significantly more importance than just trying to avoid starting the 2025 season 0-2, the Seattle Seahawks looked more like the team we saw in the preseason as they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-17 on the road with an early kickoff.

This was a statement game. Unlike the opener against the San Francisco 49ers, offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak didn’t give up on the run game, mixed in plenty of play action, and utilized his tight ends. It wasn’t always pretty with Sam Darnold throwing two interceptions. However, Seattle played complimentary football, keeping drives alive and letting their defense get some much needed rest. The offense made big plays on their second-to-last drive when they were up 24-17 with nearly half of the fourth quarter remaining, scoring a massive touchdown to go up by two scores. The Seahawks defense then kept their foot on Aaron Rodgers’ throat and choked him out like they had pretty much all game long. It was exactly how Mike Macdonald wants his team to play.

Nothing is a better salve than a win, particularly one that showcases the attitude and identity of a team. THIS is the Seahawks team that we were promised – albeit in the infant stages. They want to physically dominate you on both sides of the ball and make you feel every snap. How often in the last few decades have you seen the Pittsburgh Steelers get pushed around at home? “Bully ball” is back in the Pacific Northwest and hot damn does it feel good!