Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald has revealed his team’s biggest challenge ahead of their Super Bowl clash with the New England Patriots is simply having too much time to think before kick-off.
The Seahawks will face the Patriots this Sunday at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, with Seattle hoping to win another NFL title and erase memories of their painful last Super Bowl defeat.
Macdonald believes the long build-up can cause players to overanalyse, lose rhythm, or get distracted by the hype surrounding the biggest game in American football.
Why is Mike Macdonald worried about the extra time before the Super Bowl?
Speaking ahead of the game, Macdonald explained that the hardest part is keeping the team mentally sharp when they have a longer break than usual.
He said, “I think the biggest challenge is we have too much time.”
Macdonald stressed that the Seahawks must avoid overcomplicating things and stick to what has worked all season.
He added: “The important part is how well we can streamline it for our guys, make sure we are always in our wheelhouse about what we execute, what we do well.”
He also admitted that too much preparation time can lead to overthinking. “Sometimes you have just got to shut up and let the guys go play.”
For Seattle, the challenge is clear: stay focused, avoid distractions, and keep training sessions sharp without exhausting the squad.
How did the Seahawks reach the Super Bowl?
The Seahawks have enjoyed a dominant season and finished as the top seed in the NFC with a 14-3 record.
They booked their place in the Super Bowl by beating:
- San Francisco 49ers
- Los Angeles Rams
Their form has made them one of the most talked-about teams heading into the final.
Why is this Super Bowl especially emotional for Seahawks fans?
The last time Seattle reached the Super Bowl was in 2015, when they faced the Patriots in a match that still haunts many fans.
With 20 seconds left, Seattle trailed 28-24 but had the ball on the 1-yard line.
Instead of handing it to star running back Marshawn Lynch, quarterback Russell Wilson threw a pass that was intercepted by Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler, sealing a dramatic Patriots win.
That moment remains one of the most infamous decisions in Super Bowl history. Now, Seattle has the chance to rewrite that story.
Which players are fit and available for the Seahawks?
Macdonald confirmed key players are expected to be available, including:
- Quarterback Sam Darnold, who has recovered from a left-side strain carried through the playoffs
- Safety Nick Emmanwori, who is expected to recover from a low ankle sprain picked up in training
These fitness updates will give Seahawks fans confidence, especially with the Patriots also carrying injury concerns.
What is the biggest on-field threat from the New England Patriots?
Macdonald made it clear he expects a serious challenge from New England, particularly from their offence.
The Patriots are led by quarterback Drake Maye, who has returned to fitness after an injury to his throwing shoulder.
Macdonald said, “We have to play great football. They are a really good offence, really complementary.”
He also warned that if Seattle fails to disrupt the Patriots early, New England will control the pace.
“If you don’t force them to, they will run at every snap, so we’ve got to be able to control the game and put it in our terms.”
How are the Seahawks preparing to stop the Patriots?
Macdonald highlighted one key area: tackling. He explained that Seattle’s defensive identity is built around discipline and physical intensity. “We drill the fundamentals of tackling and finishing every day.”
He added: “It is part of our DNA and the guys take a lot of pride in it.”
This suggests Seattle will focus on shutting down New England’s running game and limiting yards after contact, rather than relying on risky defensive plays.
