Mike Macdonald's defense anchors the Seahawks heading into Super Bowl LX

Seattle's defense, led schematically by coordinator Mike Macdonald, allowed a league-low 17.2 points per game in 2025 and helped the team reach Super Bowl LX; key contributors include Devon Witherspoon, Nick Emmanwori and DeMarcus Lawrence.

Seattle's defense, led by coordinator Mike Macdonald, is the chief reason the team reached Super Bowl LX and will face the New England Patriots. Macdonald's unit allowed a league-low 17.2 points per game in 2025 and recorded multiple low-scoring outings, including five games of 10 points or fewer when including the playoffs. The defense's turnaround followed early-season struggles and a key midseason meeting that unified the group. Success has come from Macdonald's schemes plus players who can fill multiple roles across the front and secondary. Notable details: - The Seahawks allowed an NFL-low 3.7 yards per carry in 2025 while frequently using packages with five defensive backs on the field. - Cornerback Devon Witherspoon is highlighted for his physical play, three straight Pro Bowls, and crucial pass breakups in the NFC Championship Game. - Rookie Nick Emmanwori has played a versatile, near‑positionless role as a safety, nickelback and occasional linebacker, logging significant snaps at the line and in the slot. - Veteran DeMarcus Lawrence provided consistent pass-rush production, turnover plays in big moments and altered Seattle's pressure plan despite a relatively low blitz rate. - The defense finished with one of the league's better pressure rates (reported at about 35.2% of dropbacks) while maintaining a lower blitz frequency. Summary: Mike Macdonald's scheme and versatile personnel helped the Seahawks win a club-record 14 games in the regular season and carry the league's stingiest scoring defense into Super Bowl LX. The unit combines physical play in the secondary, flexible personnel usage on the second level, and an effective front four to generate pressure and limit both the run and the pass. Seattle will meet New England in the championship game this Sunday, where the defense's performance will be a defining factor in the outcome.