Seattle Seahawks Coach Pete Carroll Fumbles Late Clock Management, Gets Criticized

Getty Image / Steph Chambers

Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll is one of the best head coaches of this generation, and could possibly be heading to the Hall of Fame. But, he butchered the end-of-game management situation in the team’s 17-16 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, and it could be a costly loss.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith drove the team down into fringe field goal range in the two-minute drill after throwing an absolute bullet to DK Metcalf with under 40 seconds remaining in the game. That brought the ball down to the Rams 39-yard-line, setting up a potential 56-yard field goal.

But, the Seahawks had plenty of time to try to get closer. Yes, NFL kickers are good, but 56 yards is still a pretty tough kick. Getting even 6–8 yards closer would’ve significantly improved their odds. Instead, the Seahawks elected to run the ball for two yards and then spike to set up a field goal attempt from 54 yards. And, this was the result.

They absolutely should’ve gotten closer, given the amount of time they had. He could’ve even tried to get closer after the running play! A quick out or two, and you’ve got a much easier kick.

“:08 seconds left and you don’t try to get a few more yards before you attempt a 55 yard field goal.If Pete Carroll played more madden he’d have never messed up that decision,” Former NFL quarterback Kurt Benkert said.
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“Pete Carroll @Seahawksblew the game!!!! Total clock mismanagement!!!!! He had to throw a short pass if it was incomplete you have time for another play. Wasted time with the run!!! WTF @NFL #SEAvsLAR,” @TonyTheProphet said.

Overall, just a bungled situation by Pete Carroll that cost them the game. Instead of being 7-3 and keeping pace with the San Francisco 49ers, they’re 6-4, and could fall two games behind if they lose to the 49ers on Thursday night.