This is Frank's wife, and he asked me to post the practice squad, which includes the following players:
S Jamar Adams

DT Kevin Brown

WR Michael Bumpus

CB Marquis Floyd

T Samuel Gutekunst

G Pat Murray

TE Joe Newton

T Kyle Williams

The players who were released yesterday have until 1 o'clock this afternoon to clear waivers. Then they have to negotiate their contracts -- not that there is a great deal to negotiate -- with the team. Whichever players get done, the team could announce this afternoon.

There is no practice today. They start their regular practice schedule tomorrow, with an afternoon practice, Tuesdays off, and then resume practice on Wednesday in preparation for the Sunday game.

I am heading out for the afternoon but will post the practice squad players who are announced once I get back this evening.

The way I am reading the NFL's substance abuse policy, it looks to me like Jordan Babineaux committed some alcohol-related offense that went beyond a mere arrest.

It is not, if I am reading it correctly, substance abuse. If it was that, he would go through several intervention programs and be suspended for up to four games for a second offense. If it was for a violation of the law with substances other than alcohol, he could be suspended for up to four games.

But with alcohol-related offenses, the policy says the discipline is generally 2/17th of a player's salary. Babineaux was suspended for one game, but he also was docked another game's pay. The policy goes on to say: If the Commissioner finds that there were aggravating circumstances ... increased discipline up to and including suspension may be imposed. Discipline for a second or subsequent offense is likely to be a suspension, the duration of which may escalate with each offense.

=> Read more!

The Seahawks really have 55 players on their roster because of the suspensions of Rocky Bernard and Jordan Babineaux. So they will have to make two more roster decisions next Monday, Sept. 8, when those players return to the active roster.

A couple thoughts there: They were able to keep both Baraka Atkins and Jason Babin, giving them 10 defensive linemen. I wouldn't be surprised to see one of them go.

But also, maybe they kept somebody like Brandon Coutu hoping that teams fill out their practice squads and active rosters this week, then they will cut him next week and try to slide them onto their practice squad after everybody else's is full. Or, if they happen to find a punt returner, they do the same thing with Forsett.

=> Read more!

Jordan Babineaux violated the league's substance abuse policy and has been suspended for the season opener against Buffalo.

Rocky Bernard violated its personal conduct policy and has been suspended for the Buffalo game as well.

Placed on Injured Reserve
WR Ben Obomanu
DT Chris Cooper

Terminated Veteran Contacts:
WR Bryan Gilmore
DT Larry Tripplett

Waived:
DB Jamar Adams
QB Dalton Bell
DT Kevin Brown
WR Michael Bumpus
C Ben Claxton
DB Marquis Floyd
P Reggie Hodges
DB Kelin Johnson
C Nick Jones
FB David Kirtman
G Pat Murray
TE Joe Newton
LB Dallas Sartz
WR Trent Shelton
DE Nu’u Tafisi
T Kyle Williams

I know you all are waiting patiently for the roster cuts, as am I. I spoke with the Hawks about 50 minutes ago, when they told me they should be sending out an email in about half an hour. That has come and gone. As soon as I get the information, I will post it up here and then do an evaluation.

(On whether he will sleep well tonight…) I’m pretty sore, so I’m going to sleep like a baby tonight. In the morning, I hope I won’t get up too early. Just sleep in a little bit and see what happens.

(On how the wind affected his fumbled punt…) I didn’t put my arms together, and the ball came right through my arms. I didn’t put my elbows together, and that’s what happens when you don’t do the little things. I was ready to try to get it upfield. I tried to bounce back from it, and I went out there and gave it my all for the rest of the game, and I feel like I did.

=> Read more!

WR LOGAN PAYNE

(On the injuries to wide receivers…) I was just hoping that I didn’t take a shot to my rib. We’ll be all right, we have a good group. Bobby and Deion are getting healthy, so they will get back. We just have to suck it up until we get this thing right.

(On having so many wide receivers….) I think we have a great group. Across the board, probably the best group that I’ve been a part of since I’ve been in the league, and it’s only been a couple of years. From top to bottom we have a lot of guys that can play. We just have to get everybody healthy and get this thing going.

=> Read more!

On his performance tonight…) “It felt good to have those two scores. Everybody was just working hard and trying to get into the end zone and we did it”.

(On his performance during the preseason…) “We all had a lot on the line tonight and we all played hard”.

=> Read more!

opening…) Well, preseason is over. Tomorrow, we have some difficult decisions to make, I think it is fair to say, particularly at wide receiver, because Ben Obomanu, he got hurt. We just have to see. We are going to meet tomorrow morning at the facility. We are going to have preliminary talks tonight, and then we will sleep on it and bang it around a little bit more tomorrow.

(On Ben Obomanu’s injury….) He has a broken clavicle. So, it’s a tough one. He got off to such a great start, I feel bad for him. He hadn’t touched the ball much in the preseason, but he was very much in our plans, and knew all the positions, he’s a very steady guy, and he got off to a great start tonight, it was too bad. But, it happens, unfortunately.

=> Read more!

First and foremost, all the dynamics we previously discussed were thrown into disarray because Ben Obomanu suffered a broken clavicle that may have ended his season. Mike Holmgren said Obomanu was a candidate for IR but the decision will be made today. It moves everybody up a notch, meaning that Logan Payne is likely in, though Holmgren was not willing to rule out Michael Bumpus, who led the team with three catches and 53 yards.

It also probably puts Justin Forsett on the roster because if Forsett is not the return man it was probably Obomanu. Without him, I don't know who they would go with back there. It wouldn't be Courtney Taylor if he is starting at flanker, and the ranks start to get thin at that point. If you read the game story I posted earlier, Holmgren had a quote about Forsett's chances and was complimentary of his ability to overcome his start.

=> Read more!

Here is the unedited version of my game story and notes that I just filed for tomorrow's News Tribune:

By Frank Hughes
Frank.hughes@thenewstribune.com

How’s this for an indication the Seattle Seahawks were in a relatively meaningless preseason game on Friday night?
Trailing by 10 points early in the third period, Oakland Raiders coach Lane Kiffin allowed kicker Sebastian Janikowski to attempt a 66-yard field goal.
When Janikowski came up short by 10 yards, it gave the Seahawks the ball in Oakland’s territory, whereas a punt would likely have pinned the Seahawks inside their own 20.
Field position?
Overrated.
Final score?
About the same.
Yes, the Seahawks won their third of four exhibitions by a 23-16 margin before 67,163 ready-for-the-regular-season fans at Qwest Field. But this game was more about staying healthy and getting a full chance to evaluate the players fighting for the final roster spots.
The Seahawks didn’t do so well on the first front even though they didn’t put many of their front-line players in the game.
They lost wide receiver Ben Obomanu to a broken clavicle that knocked him out of the game in the first quarter and may have ended his season. Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren said Obomanu is a candidate for the injured reserve, thought that determination will come today.

=> Read more!

Here's a dirty copy of the Boling column for Saturday morning looking at the roster issues. Note, the game isn't over so we have no final score.

BOLING SATURDAY

Okay, now that the jayvee game is finished – Seattle’s reserves beat Oakland’s reserves ?-? – we can get to the real issue: Who’s going to be on the Seahawk roster when they land in Buffalo for next week’s regular-season opener?
This won’t be easy. But that’s a good thing.
Maybe it’s irrelevant to how a team will fare in the long run, but it seems that one measure of the strength of a team’s roster is the quality of the players who can’t make it.
It’s fair to expect that some good players aren’t going to be around after today’s final cut.

=> Read more!

There has been some pretty good play and some not-so-good play, but overall I would say that the guys who need to make a good impression are feeling the pressure of the occasion. Justin Forsett fumbled a punt; Logan Payne dropped a ball; Jason Babin nearly jumped offsides, but then it was reversed.

T.J. Duckett has probably solidified a spot with his big first quarter, which included a 24-yard touchdown run and 40 yards on four carries. But it is going to be an interesting decision tomorrow, especially regarding Forsett.

=> Read more!

Sebastian Janikowski kicked a 41-yarder to cap off a 10-play, 64-yard drive.

The Seahawks got to the 1 on a screen pass to Justin Forsett, but Pat Murray was called for holding, sending the ball back to the 18. Too hard to get in from there. Coutu kicks a 28-yarder for a 13-0 lead.

I know this is going to cause confusion, but Ben Obomanu suffered another injury. This time it was the shoulder and his return is doubtful.

Just to clarify, he suffered a knee injury, came back in and caught a 33-yard pass, then suffered a shoulder injury.

Logan Payne, on the bubble, dropped a pass that would have been a first down at the 11-yard line. He tried to step back to avoid a tackle, and when he did he lost control of the ball. The play went to review, and his catch was overturned. The Seahawks were forced to kick a field goal after that. Seahawks lead, 10-0.

In case it did not come up in the last posting, Ben Obomanu came back into the game and caught a 33-yard pass.

Another wide receiver was injured when Ben Obomanu went down with a knee injury. The PA guy said his return is probable, which would lead one to believe it is not serious.

UPDATE: Obomanu just came back into the game.

UPDATE 2: And caught a 33-yard pass.

A nice drive by the Seahawks by a 24-yard touchdown run off a draw play for T.J. Duckett. He banged off a couple people, stiff-armed another and rumbled into the end zone -- then showed off his biceps. The drive also saw nice plays by Courtney Taylor and Ben Obomanu, who had nice catch-and-runs.

Just as I turned to Boling and said, "If this guy doesn't make the team, who are they going to have to return punts?" Justin Forsett fumbled the first punt of the game. With the Raiders bearing down on him, you could see him look up and take his eye off the ball. That's two fumbles in the last two games.

With Matt Hasselbeck and Lofa Tatupu out, the Seahawks captains were Deon Grant, Mike Wahle, Walter Jones and D.D. Lewis.

Johnnie Lee Higgins for Javon Walker
Mario Henderson for Kwame Harris
Paul McQuistan for Robert Gallery
John Wade for Jake Grove
Chris Morris for Cooper Carlisle
Seth Wand for Cornell Green
John Madsen for Zach Miller
Todd Watkins for Ronald Curry
Andrew Walter for Jamarcus Russell
Luke Lawton for Justin Griffith
Darren McFadden for Justin Fargas

Trevor Scott for Derrick Burgess
Josh Shaw for Tommy Kelly
Terrell Sands for Gerard Warren
Kalimba Edwards for Jay Richardson
Robert Thomas for Ricky Brown
Isaiah Ekejuba for Kirk Morrison
Sam Williams for Thomas Howard
Chris Johnson for DeAngelo Hall
Stanford Routt for Nnamdi Asomugha
Tyvon Branch for Gilbril Wilson
Nate Lyles for Michael Huff

Ben Obomanu is starting for Nate Burleson
Floyd Womack is starting for Walter Jones
Pat Murray is starting for Mike Wahle
John Carlson is starting for Will Heller
Seneca Wallace is starting for Matt Hasselbeck
T.J. Duckett is starting for Mo Morris

Darryl Tapp starting for Patrick Kerney
Howard Greens starting for Brandon Mebane
Craig Terrill starting for Rocky Bernard
Lance Laury starting for Leroy Hill
David Hawthorne starting for Lofa Tatupu
DD Lewis starting for Julian Peterson
Kevin Hobbs starting for Marcus Trufant
Josh Wilson starting for Kelly Jennings
Jordan Babineaux starting for Deon Grant
CJ Wallace starting for Brian Russell

This is a team press release:

RENTON, WASH. – The Seattle Seahawks and United Way of King County (UWKC) today announced the launch of a partnership for the 2008 season. In addition to a public service campaign, the Seahawks will also chair the 2008 UWKC Giving Campaign.

The PSA campaign “tough” features Seahawks players Deon Grant, Patrick Kerney, Lofa Tatupu, and Seahawks President of Football Operations/General Manager Tim Ruskell comparing football toughness to the daily challenge many local families face to find food and shelter.

=> Read more!

Referee: Mike Carey
Umpire: Dan Ferrell
Head linesman: Dana McKenzie
Line judge: Tom Barnes
Field judge: Buddy Horton
Side judge: Don Carlsen
Back judge: Don Carey
Replay: Tommy Moore
Video: Bud Alexander

As a reminder, I will be blogging in pregame and during the first half tonight, after which I will be writing on some tight deadlines.

Before that, though, I wanted to detail some of the key matchups tonight:

Logan Payne vs. Jordan Kent: This may be a bit of a misnomer, and it may just be Payne fighting for a job. And some think it is Payne vs. Ben Obomanu. But I think they love the fact that Obo can play every position and knows the playbook better than anybody. Kent may have secured himself a job with his earlier play, which means Payne may have to convince them he can do something in a game situation to make then want to keep him. This may already be a foregone conclusion because Tim Ruskell has to have an idea about whether he is going to place Deion Branch on the PUP list. If he is, Payne is likely to stick. If Branch is active, Payne is most likely a goner. But, he still has the chance to convince them otherwise.

=> Read more!

Because this is a day before a game, the Seahawks had only a walkthrough today with no media access.

It's been a weird week for access as it is because of the Monday night game followed by the Friday game, with basically Tuesday and Thursday off. That meant that everybody was scrambling yesterday to get in as many interviews as they could because we will not be speaking to players and coaches until after they play the Raiders.

Yesterday also was the first day we have open access in the new locker room at VMAC. Up until this point, we told the PR staff who we'd like to interview and they chase them down for you. Now, everybody heads to the locker room after practice and it is a free-for-all in terms of access. It's much nicer in this locker room though because it is so spacious that you don't feel like you are falling over another player to speak with somebody.

The locker room is still a work in progress though because it still contains the nameplates of players who already have been cut or, in one particular case, retired (Chris Gray). The rookies are in some lockers in the middle of the locker room; it remains to be seen if they will be given big-boy lockers once final cuts are made.

Former Seattle Seahawks fullback and Fox Sports Northwest sportscaster Mack Strong will visit the Samsung Sound Lounge at Bumbershoot to host the DJ Scratch Academy, as well as guest DJ and play his favorite songs for everyone to enjoy. Strong will be there from 5-5:45.

Anyone attending Bumbershoot will be able to participate in the DJ Scratch Academy, which allows festival goers the opportunity to learn first-hand from the experts how to scratch and mix and create their own unique music CD or video to take home with them.

The Sound Lounge will also have a digital green-screen photo area where people can take their pictures to print onsite to take with them. In addition, the festival wristband also offers free prizes – festival attendees will get a free day pack and free night glo, which can be redeemed at the Samsung Sound Lounge booth.

Somebody had earlier requested a photo of the berm that flanks one side of the fields at the new practice facility. I'm not sure if this photo does it justice, my guess is it is 25 or 30 feet high with a pretty steep incline. Players have been running up it to get in shape. And next year, you too can run up it so you can watch practice from the top.

I think it was placed there to shield the fields from prying eyes along the road that runs in front of the facility, as well as to offer a place from which to view practice. The opposite side is the lake, and there are trees and bushes newly planted that will shield the field from boats at some point.

The rookie running back was getting a lot of carries with the first unit during Wednesday's practice and he should get a pretty good opportunity to win a spot on the roster. He was getting in a lot of work with Owen Schmitt as the lead blocker, which is a funny looking pairing given their respective size. Forsett said afterward that he is looking forward to the opportunity and just wants to take advantage of his chances.

We also spoke with Logan Payne afterward, who is another bubble guy who probably needs to have a good game to make the team. He kind of laughed when I asked him if it was frustrating that all the balls thrown to him seemed like they were either high, off-target or a defensive back was there to make the play. But, he said, no excuses, he has to make the plays when he gets his opportunities.

=> Read more!

During Mike Holmgren's meeting with reporters after practice, the subject of Tyler Schmitt came up. I asked Holmgren what exactly was the issue with Schmitt. He said he has a bad back. I asked if there was any indication during the draft that he had a bad back, and Holmgren said there was not; they do extensive physicals and interviews to vet this kind of stuff. But he looked very skeptical about Schmitt's future, saying, "He is a young man and has a back like mine. So it's not good."

Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren said Lofa Tatupu suffered a bone bruise on his knee. He will not play Friday against Oakland but he should be OK for the season opener.

Frye could play this Friday, Holmgren said, though he then backed off and would not say if he definitively is playing. He kind of suggested Seneca Wallace and Dalton Bell would get the majority of the snaps but also said that Frye may play. A bit ambiguous but I guess the point is that Frye could play if he was needed.

=> Read more!

I poked my head out the door at the beginning of practice to see if Lofa was around. And though he was not participating, he was down with the linebackers during early drills. He was wearing a compression sleeve on his knee. Frye also was out on the field, though he too was sitting to the side.

Also sitting out were Craig Terrill, Chris Cooper, Matt Hasselbeck, Sean Locklear and Samuel Gutekunst.

Just got a call from Dave Boling, who is up at the VMAC, and boy did he have some interesting news. The Seahawks are bringing back 38-year-old Jeff Robinson to be the team's long snapper.

Robinson, as you remember, was the guy the team signed on Dec. 11 last season to replace Boone Stutz. Robinson snapped for the last three regular season games and both playoff games and settled the uneasy snapping situation.

The Seahawks thought they had their long-snapper for this season and future ones when they drafted Tyler Schmitt in the sixth round back in April. Schmitt, though, was placed on the injured reserve on Tuesday and is now out for the season.

So, it looks like the job belongs to Robinson again.

Sports Illustrated's Peter King recently visited the Seahawks. Here is his piece on his trip to the VMAC.

There's not much more to say beyond the headline.

The Seahawks are not releasing anything until tomorrow on Lofa's injury, and his agent's voice mailbox is full so I couldn't even leave a message there. But here is my gut: If it was serious, they would have released something sooner than tomorrow. But I'm guessing they are handling this the way they did with Sean Locklear -- they initially said he has a knee sprain and is out for two weeks, and that is what indeed happened so they just waited until the following day at practice. Since Holmgren said last night there was no ligament tear, and the initial diagnosis is a bruised knee, that diagnosis likely has not changed, which is good news. With the way Tatupu has handled pain the past, I can't imagine he would sit out the season opener at Buffalo. That is still almost two weeks away.

The Seahawks have made their roster moves, and they include sixth-round draft pick Tyler Schmitt being placed on injured reserve. So the long snapper drama continues.

The other moves:

Omare Lowe, who gave up the two-point conversion last night, was waived.

WR Joel Filani was waived.

LB Will Herring was placed on PUP. He can come back after six games and has three weeks to practice with the team to determine if he is healthy enough to go on.

OT William Robinson was placed on injured reserve.

Hey folks, I just landed on my flight back from San Diego. I did a roster analysis while I was on the plane, which is a little premature since it includes some of the players who will be cut. But it'll give you something to chew on until those announcements are made. I have a call in to the Hawks regarding Lofa's injury, but they are currently not answering. Just to give you a heads-up, their MO this preseason has been to announce the injury the day after the MRI, so they may not be releasing anything on that today.

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks
Average kept past six seasons: 2.8
In: Matt Hasselbeck, Seneca Wallace, Charlie Frye.
Longshot: Dalton Bell.
Comment: Frye increased his value with strong showing Monday night against San Diego.

=> Read more!

First let me say that the Chargers visiting locker room is one of the smallest and hottest I have been in. It is split, in fact, into two locker rooms, with the showers between them, so you have to shuffle back and forth in order to talk to guys on offense and defense.

Nate Burleson said his touchdown celebration was a tribute to Usain Bolt, letting the Jamaicans know they are being watched and appreciated. He also said he was working in the slot for the first time this week and he was in the slot when he caught his TD pass. He said it gives them more options on offense. He said he was tutored this week by Ben Obomanu because he forgot some of the plays at that spot.

=> Read more!

OK, so here is the situation that Mike Holmgren finds himself in this week:

With only four days between now and the game against the Oakland Raiders, and his top three quarterbacks suffering some sort of injury, what does he do against the Raiders?

He certainly is not going to throw Matt Hasselbeck out there and risk having him injured just before the season opener in Buffalo. He does not yet know the severity of Charlie Frye's knee injury, though Frye said his knee was sore. And while Seneca Wallace played tonight, Holmgren said he did not even plan on allowing Wallace to throw a pass until they found themselves down by a point with 2 1/2 minutes left.

A lot of course will depend on what they say on Tuesday about Frye's injury and if that will restrict him. But it is an interesting question nonetheless: Who does Holmgren go with?

And before you say Dalton Bell, this was Holmgren's response when he was asked about playing Seneca late: "We didn't have any choice really. I wasn't going to put Dalton Bell in against them."

Here is an unedited version of my game story that will appear in tomorrow's News Tribune:

SAN DIEGO – The Seattle Seahawks were so close to starting the preseason with three consecutive victories for the first time in 20 years and for only the third time in their history.
But a controversial pass interference penalty on Kevin Hobbs, a late touchdown run by San Diego and an interception thrown by Seneca Wallace in the final two minutes led to Seattle’s first exhibition loss, an 18-17 decision before 52,763 at Qualcomm Stadium and a national television audience.
Of more concern than the loss, however, is the status of Pro Bowl middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu’s knee. He bruised it in the first half and never returned.
Tatupu did not speak to reporters, but he left the locker room on crutches walking very stiffly, telling an assistant coach he didn’t think he would be able to drive once the team landed in Seattle.
Though coach Mike Holmgren said that team doctors determined there was no ligament damage, Tatupu will receive a magnetic resonance imaging scan today to determine the severity of the injury. He almost certainly is out of Friday’s preseason finale against the Oakland Raiders.

=> Read more!

I have to get cracking on my daily stuff, but I wanted to give injury updates really quickly. Charlie Frye looked OK, he said his knee was sore, but he didn't look that bad to me. Lofa, on the other hand, left the locker room on crutches and looked very stiff. He made the comment that he was not going to be able to drive home once they landed. Both are getting MRIs tomorrow. Now I have to start writing.

After leading the Seahawks on what could be their game-winning drive, Charlie Frye suffered a knee injury that has knocked him out of the game. Seneca Wallace currently is in the game. No word on how serious Frye's injury is.

Also, Justin Forsett just fumbled the ball and the Chargers recovered.

The Seahawks just completed a 15-play drive with a 24-yard field goal that tied the game. I have to say, Charlie Frye looks pretty darn good. He is making some icy passes and he is doing a really nice job of avoiding pressure and sacks. The Seahawks overcame two costly penalties on that drive, including a 15-yard clipping penalty on center Ben Claxton, to keep the drive going. Incidentally, most of the offensive starters have been pulled and the backups are in.

Everything is turned upside down and backwards. The Seahawks' offense actually looks pretty good and their defense looks completely discombobulated. It can't stop Darren Sproles and it it having a hard time covering San Diego's receivers. San Diego took a 10-7 lead into the locker room.

It seemed like Seattle's offense should have more than 7 points, but Olindo Mare missed a field goal that negated a nice long drive. Charlie Frye looks like he has a good command of the game, and the running game for the most part is making some nice plays, giving Seattle a chance.

Now if only the defense could do its part. The front four are getting stood up, allowing other blockers to take up the linebackers, meaning most of the tackles are being made by Deon Grant and Brian Russell, which is not good. And the secondary is feast or famine; either they are forcing Rivers to throw away the ball or they are giving up receptions, including a 59-yarder to Vincent Jackson.

Nate Burleson, by the way, has the ice off his arm but he does seem to be favoring it on the sideline. That is something to keep an eye on because they could ill afford to lose him for any duration. Update:Seahawks PR says Burleson is OK and was yanked so the coaches could look at the younger receivers.

Also, Lofa Tatupu apparently has a bruised knee. No word on the severity.

Nate Burleson is standing on the sideline wearing a big Ace bandage on is left arm. Through my binoculars, it appears as if he has a bag of ice under the bandage. He doesn't look too concerned, talking to a bunch of teammates, so I am not sure what is going on, if it is precautionary or he is out of the game because he could not continue.

The Chargers just tied the score at 7 after a 59-yard pass to Vincent Jackson set up a 1-yard TD run by Darren Sproles. The Seahawks' front four are having a hard time stopping things up against Sproles, who breaks off run after run. And remember this: Sproles is smaller than Justin Forsett, at 5-6, 181 pounds. Sproles almost has 100 yards already.

It appears that after catching a 68-yard TD, the Seahawks have ended Nate Burleson's night, giving all the young receivers the opportunity to show what they can do.

A few impressions from a long drive that netted nothing:

1) On the first play of the drive, Courtney Taylor got knocked on his can by Derek Smith trying to come across the middle. It's why Frye had to throw it away. They then force-fed Taylor for two receptions.

2) They are using all three tight ends in a rotation right now.

3) On third-and-1, they used the short yardage backfield of Owen Schmitt and Leonard Weaver. Wonder what that means for TJ Duckett.

4) An illegal procedure penalty ground the drive to a halt. They never said who the penalty was on.

5) Plackemeier made the hold on Mare's missed kick. Though there does not seem to be much of a breeze in the stadium, Mare is having trouble kicking in that direction.

OK, that's a little strong, but they did prevent the Chargers from scoring after San Diego quickly drove to Seattle's 1-yard line. Lofa Tatupu threw Jacob Hester for a three-yard loss on first and goal and then the Chargers muffed a shotgun snap, and Rocky Bernard jumped on the ball.

I guess KeyShawn Johnson was killing the Seahawks in pregame for having no offense. They quickly answered that when Charlie Frye hit Nate Burleson for a 68-yard TD pass to take a 7-0 lead. Burleson lined up in the slot, with Courtney Taylor on his outside. When Burleson caught the pass and broke a tackle, Taylor threw a nice block to spring him for the end zone. Nice throw by Frye.

They just had a moment of silence for NFLPA chief union chief Gene Upshaw, who died from pancreatic cancer this week. Except during the moment of silence, about three or four people screamed, "F*** the Raiders," or "Raiders suck." So much for respect for the dearly departed.

RB LaDainian Tomlinson
LB Shawne Merriman
C Nick Hardwick
LT Marcus McNeil
DT Jamal Williams
TE Antonio Gates

Lineup changes

LJ Shelton will start at LT for McNeil.
Jeremy Newberry will start at C for Hardwick
Brandon Manumaleuna will start at TE for Gates
Mike Tolbert will start at FB for Andrew Pinnock
Darren Sproles will start at RB for Tomlinson
Brandon McKinney will start at DT for Williams
Derek Smith will start at LB for Stephen Cooper
Jyles Tucket will start at LB for Merriman

K Brandon Coutu
QB Matt Hasselbeck
LS Tyler Schmitt
LB Will Herring
C Nick Jones
C Chris Spencer
OT William Robinson
OT Sean Locklear
OT Samuel Gutekunst
DT Red Bryant
WR Deion Branch
WR Bobby Engram
De Chris Cooper
DT Larry Tripplett

I know, I know, there still is a game to be played tonight that could have a bearing on the decisions tomorrow. But let's be honest, the cut from 80 to 75 is a bit of a joke. It's almost like they threw something in there to keep it interesting for a day. Why not just wait until the end of the week and keep everybody around until then. Anyway, since they have to cut 5 spots tomorrow, here's who they could be:

OL William Robinson: I'm not exactly sure why he is still around, other than they haven't been able to come to an injury settlement with him. But he was not doing very well when he was healthy, and now he is just taking up space on the roster.

OL Nick Jones: He injured his calf on Friday, which could mean a little extra in an injury settlement as well.

WR Trent Shelton: We haven't seen much of him lately, and the other receivers need all the work they can get.

LS Tim Lindsey: This is assuming, of course, that Tyler Schmitt is able to come back from his sore back.

CB Marquis Floyd: He came in late after Derrick Johnson got hurt on his third play of his first practice, and he may be departing early.

No, he did not get a job in the NFL, per se. Here is a press release keeping you up to date:

Former Seattle Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander is playing a new position this football season: rookie virtual host of HGTVPro.com's annual Builders Football League (BFL). The league is an online, weekly pro football pick-and-win contest for contractors, remodelers, and home improvement enthusiasts. Throughout the season, players predict the winning teams from the Sunday and Monday night pro football match-ups. Weekly winners will receive a $100 Circuit City gift card, and the player with the most points at the end of the season wins the grand prize - a Samsung 50" HDTV (approximate retail value = $1,199.99).

"I'm excited to join the home pros at HGTVPro in their popular Builders Football League," Alexander said. "This Web site is a great resource for professional and armchair builders alike, and the BFL is a fun way for both to build team spirit and heat up competitive juices."

First off, Bills starting left tackle Jason Peters is in the midst of an ongoing holdout for a new contract. So the Bills put Langston Walker, normally a right tackle, into Peters' spot at left tackle. Except that Walker just got hurt, banging his left arm in an injury that the Bills are saying might be serious, meaning that the Bills currently have no left tackle. With the regular season only two weeks away, Lawrence Jackson and Darryl Tapp might be licking their chops right now.

Sorry for the lack of content today, folks. Eric Williams got permission from Clay Bennett to go on a much-needed vacation, and I have been traveling to San Diego for much of the day. Flew over the stadium coming in; I think I saw Justin Forsett warming up.

The Hawks had a closed walkthrough this morning and then flew to San Diego a little later. They at least had direct. As a reminder, I'll be blogging from the game tomorrow night, but keep in mind that because it is a late start, most of the blog stuff will come in the first half.

Speaking of the game, here are a few things to watch for:

The Aforementioned Rookie: Loathe to anoint Forsett too early, Mike Holmgren has said he wants to see more consistency out of Forsett. This is the rookie's chance to go 3-for-3 (4-for-4 if you count the scrimmage) and cement a spot on the roster.

=> Read more!

As we stood between the Seahawks practicing on Saturday afternoon and Lake Washington, it was difficult to decide whether to watch all the womens in the boats trying to watch practice, or practice itself. Practice started out with about one or two boats trolling around on the lake trying to catch a glimpse of practice, but by the end there were fully 10 boats sitting along the shoreline. I guarantee you that some of the players were stealing glances over at the two-pieces.

Turns out kicker Brandon Coutu has a sore groin, the reason he missed a second consecutive day of practice. With Coutu out, Olindo Mare handles all the kicks in practice. He missed one, about 50 yards, but then ended the special teams session by hitting a 55- or 60-yarder.

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Seattle head coach Mike Holmgren said after practice today that starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will not play against San Diego on Monday, and probably will not make the trip.

Hasselbeck again did not practice with the team today because of a tight back, and hasn't practiced with the team since Monday. Holmgren said Charlie Frye will start again this week, and Seneca Wallace may see some time against the Chargers.

"He's just got to let it calm down a bit," Holmgren said about Hasselbeck's back. "He's much better today. He told me that. As I said yesterday or the day before, he's got to be ready to play in the opening game."

Frye took most of the snaps with the first team, and Seneca Wallace also took some snaps. I talked to Wallace after practice and he said his legs are fine and he'll be ready to go if Holmgren calls his number on Monday.

=> Read more!

The Seahawks will have just one practice this afternoon and I'll provide an update later on today.

Seattle Seahawks

Frank Hughes focuses today on Seahawks running back Justin Forsett and the chances of the smallish runner on making the team. Forsett works out regularly during the summer with another back who works low to the ground – Jacksonville’s Maurice Jones-Drew.

Here’s a feature on tight end John Carlson and his ascension to a starting role by Gregg Bell of the Associated Press.

Bell also writes that Seattle head coach Mike Holmgren has no intentions of going away meekly in his final season as a head coach.

Seahawks secondary coach Jim Mora handed out DVD’s to each of his defensive backs with highlights of plays they could have performed better on, according to Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald. The players use the critiques to get better during the offseaon.

=> Read more!

The Pittsburgh Steelers gave linebacker James Farrior a five-year, $18.25 million contract extension today, with $5 million guaranteed. Here is a link to the ESPN.com story.

I mention this not because I have any special affinity for Farrior or the Steelers -- and I know most of you are disgusted by the Steelers -- but because Farrior was one of the linebackers who was going to be a free agent this summer -- along with Leroy Hill.

So not only does this take one more linebacker off the table in free agency, thus making Hill inherently more valuable, it also gives you at least some parameters for what Hill should earn.

You figure Lofa got a $42 million contract extension over six years, an average of $7 million a year. Farrior got an average of about $3.5 million a year, half of what Lofa got. Given that Hill is much younger than Farrior and with much more upside, you figure he has to be seeking close to $5 million or $6 million a year.

These figures are not exact because the story says Farrior is only supposed to play for three more years, and guaranteed money obviously plays a factor in all this, but it is at least a starting place.

Because they have been going so hard, and because they have a few days before the San Diego game, Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren canceled practice today -- which was supposed to be the last day of training camp anyway. Practice schedule goes back to its original deal tomorrow, with afternoon practices for about two hours. Since there will be no posts from Renton today, I thought I'd try to knock out some of the questions that have been piling up for a few days.

IDhawkman, Mare was punting the ball yesterday to get it to the rafters. He was coming close but not as high as Plack. I think Mare is far and away the better kickoff specialist. His kickoffs are higher and deeper, and he never really shanks one, where you occasionally see Coutu shank one. Having said that, I think this competition is very, very close. We've said this before, but I think it comes down to Ruskell looking out for the future of the organization and Holmgren looking out for his final season. There is a chance, I guess, that Coutu gets put on the practice squad, but team certainly saw him convert those five field goals against Chicago and must know he is close to being an NFL kicker.

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We begin the morning links on a sad note, with news that NFL Players Association executive director Gene Upshaw has passed away according to several reports this morning. He was 63.

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle coach Mike Holmgren said quarterback Matt Hasselbeck might not play against San Diego because of a sore back. But earlier this week Hasselbeck said he’s definitely playing on Monday. So which one is right? I guess will see on Monday.

Dave Boling catches up with defensive lineman Howard Green, who’s been waived or released six times and did not play in the NFL from 2004 to 2007, but may find a home in Seattle.

Gregg Bell of the Associated Press also writes about the Hasselbeck situation.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald writes about the business-like attitude of the tight ends.

=> Read more!

The latter stages of Wednesday's afternoon's special teams practice was devoted to Ryan Plackemeier taking aim at the rafters of the indoor practice facility, which are 110 feet from floor to rafter. After a few misses, Plack hit the same beam three consecutive times. Olindo Mare could not get the ball up that high.

=> Read more!

Stephen Jackson ended his holdout today and could be on the practice field tomorrow, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting along with several other media outlets.

ESPN’s Mike Sando offers his take on Jackson’s return here.

Also, if you haven't heard it already, you check out Mitch Levy of KJR and his interview with Mike Holmgren here.

I just listened to Mitch Levy's interview of Mike Holmgren this morning, and a couple things jumped out:

1) While discussing Justin Forsett, he said that his decision at the end is either with the Seahawks or elsewhere. He essentially acknowledged that Forsett will not get through waivers if they try to place him on the practice squad. He also said he realizes that there could be a public backlash if the guy is cut.

2) Regarding T.J. Duckett, Hugh Millen was very critical, saying that he is a one-trick pony whose one trick is not that effective. Holmgren did not really defend Duckett, instead acknowledging that "the pile is pretty big" in front of him, meaning the other running backs. He said the Duckett decision also will come down to the end.

3) Mitch used a Woodward and Bernstein interviewing technique in which he basically said he believes Lawrence Jackson will be the starter. The beauty of that technique is that it hypothetically forces Holmgren to either say, No, No, Jackson is not the starter. Or to ignore what Mitch says, thus sort of endorsing. Holmgren not only didn't deny it, he said that if it turns out that way, Darryl Tapp has to suck it up. He also said Tapp knows that most teams don't draft guys No. 1 and not expect them to play. So there you have it.

Real quickly, before we get started, if you want to a see a picture of the crash I wrote about this morning, which involved Seahawks linebacker Dallas Sartz's grandfather, you can go to this link, go to the left side of the page and click on the boats link, then click on the Miss Seattle Too. The picture is at the bottom. It is a pretty phenomenal photo of a spectacular crash.

On to today's practice, which Matt Hasselbeck missed again. There are some conflicting things going on here because without getting into specifics, there are some indications that Hasselbeck's back is not in that bad of shape. However, Mike Holmgren keeps saying that his back is tightening up. I guess if you look at it, there is no reason to risk Hasselbeck if there is any indication he is sore. On the other hand, this could be the time for him to develop some rapport with his young wide receivers, none of whom has sufficiently stood out, though all have made individual plays. Either way, Holmgren said it is too early to say whether Hasselbeck will play on Monday night in San Diego -- though I suspect he will since I doubt they will want him to play much in the preseason opener on Friday, four days after the Chargers game. Again, we'll keep an eye on it throughout the week, obviously.

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With the return of the wet stuff we're reminded the regular season kickoff is a little over two weeks away. Here's a look at what's happening around the NFC West this morning.

Seattle Seahawks

An interesting story on reserve linebacker Dallas Sartz by Frank Hughes. Sartz's grandfather was an Everett native who was injured in a spectacular crash while racing hydroplanes in the Gold Cup on Lake Washington – the same lake the Seahawks’ current practice facility sits next to.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald talks to Brandon Coutu about his pursuit of the staring kicker job.

Seattle legend Steve Largent talks to reporters about the Seahawks while at the Rumble of the Ridge, a charity golf event tied with the Boeing Classic senior PGA tour stop, on Monday.

The Patriots release former Seahawks Tight End Marcus Pollard.

=> Read more!

Let's just say that this afternoon's practice was not really crisp. Needless to say, Mike Holmgren then let the offense have it. I don't know that I've ever seen Holmgren so frustrated, to be honest. Matt Hasselbeck and Seneca Wallace did not practice again, leaving the duty to Charlie Frye and Dalton Bell.

When Frye tried to throw a simple screen pass to Leonard Weaver and Weaver had to make an acrobatic catch to haul in the ball, Holmgren started turning red. When Frye then missed Justin Forsett altogether on the next play, Holmgren nearly combusted. He couldn't understand why the offense could not execute a simple screen pass. He stopped the offense and made them get together in the huddle, providing a few choice words. Then, after watching another 10 minutes of ineptitude, he stopped practice and let the defense go inside. He then made the offense stay after so they could practice the screen pass a while longer.

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Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck had his back tighten up again, forcing him to leave this morning's practice less than halfway through. With Seneca Wallace also out with a sore groin, Charlie Frye took most of the reps, with Dalton Bell getting some work late in the practice.

Mike Holmgren once again was jumping on the offense, especially after rookie fullback Owen Schmitt had a false start penalty. Holmgren told the offense that plays like that were going to stop immediately. He still is upset about the number of mental mistakes that were made in Saturday's game.

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A newsy Tuesday in the NFC West with Anquan Boldin again requesting a trade from the Cardinals, and Arizona (Matt Leinart) and San Francisco (J.T. O'Sullivan) hinting strongly which quarterback will open up the regular season as the starter. But will start with Seattle first.

Seattle Seahawks

Center Chris Spencer was back at practice in a limited capacity and working toward a return in time for the team’s regular-season opener at Buffalo.

Adam Schein of Fox Sports apparently has a man crush on Seattle linebacker Lofa Tatupu, stating he would start his franchise with the energetic linebacker if he were building a team.

And fans are still proud to wear Tatupu’s No. 51, even after the linebacker was arrested for a DUI earlier this year, according to Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald.

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Seattle defensive coordinator John Marshall talked with reporters for about 15 minutes after the special teams practice on topics including the Chicago Bears quarterback situation, Mike Holmgren's final year as head coach and the improvement of cornerback Josh Wilson.

As always, the conversation with Marshall was both enlightening and entertaining. Here are a few snippets.

On Seattle blitzing Rex Grossman in the game Saturday against Chicago, Marshall had this to say: "They've got a veteran group. A veteran quarterback and (Rex) Grossman nailed us on some throws a couple times in earlier games and I don't think I wanted to give him that opportunity again. Basically we were going to make him be good right off the bat."

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There’s a lot going on this morning so let’s get to it.

First off, Sean Locklear did not practice today and was wearing a brace on his left leg. Ray Willis worked at right tackle with Locklear out.

Seattle head coach Mike Holmgren said he’s hopeful that Locklear will return for the regular-season opener game, but that it will be close.

Holmgren said Locklear has a sprained ligament.Holmgren said it’s not the ACL and Locklear will not need surgery, just rest.

Center Chris Spencer was back at practice today, but in a limited capacity. Spencer went through individual work but didn’t take any snaps during team drills. However, Spencer did work with quarterback Matt Hasselbeck in some center exchanges this morning. The team shifted practice here at the VMAC from outside to the indoor facility because of rain threatening.

“That’s the beauty of this place because I don’t think we could have blown up the bubble that fast,” Holmgren said, joking with reporters afterward.

Spencer has been out since the beginning of training camp nursing a back injury, but he said he’s hopeful that he’ll be ready for the season opener against Buffalo.

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I was sent a cheer card by Alex Pietsch, who is in charge of economic and community development for the city of Renton, a good guy I dealt with when the Sonics were trying to move to Renton. It is a cheer card welcoming the Seahawks to town in their first official day at the VMAC. Alex tells me you can download one by going to http://renton.wa.gov. Enjoy.

Some light reading to start your Monday morning. I'll have an update after today's first practice from VMAC, including a report on injured players.

Seattle Seahawks

With Sean Locklear out with a knee injury for at least the next two exhibition games, Frank Hughes writes that Ray Willis will get a chance to fill in at right tackle.

Even after his impressive performance on Saturday, Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald says that Justin Forsett is still a long shot to make the team.

Some observations on the Seahawks from ESPN’s Mike Sando, who attended the game on Saturday.

With the Seahawks taking the day off on Sunday there’s not much happening this morning, so I thought we would take a look at former Seattle coach and current Washington Redskins head coach Jim Zorn and see how he’s doing.

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Justin Forsett: Does anything else need to be said?

Josh Wilson: I thought Wilson had struggled at times during training camp, but he showed good closing speed on that one pass where he was beat, made up the space and knocked away the ball. He also looked good in other coverage. Plus, Wilson would have had a sack if he was not held. I'm not sure what the official was looking at other than maybe he wanted to call intentional grounding over holding.

Kevin Hobbs: Hobbs has had some difficult times as well during camp, I would say even moreso than Wilson. But at a time that the Seahawks needed him, he made a timely interception. Hobbs also had two tackles.

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(On whether his confidence grew as the game went by…) I think so. I think I settled down a lot more as the game went on. I was real excited in the locker room to get out there and play. It was a packed game, the fans were loud, a great environment to play football. It was hot as heck out there and I was excited. I think as the game went on, I settled down and just started playing football.

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(opening…) Well, there was a lot of football to evaluate tomorrow. I was pleased with a good portion of it, and some of it was pretty ugly. We have, as can happen in the preseason, you have special teams breakdowns, because you are working with a lot of different combinations, and sometimes it happens. However, having said there, there were too many tonight, that is for sure. But, we won the game, and the players feel good about it, they were happy, so that’s good.

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The mood was upbeat in the locker room as guys got dressed and ready to head off into the night.

As you can imagine, most reporters huddled around running back Justin Forsett, who continued to state his case for making the final roster by finishing with a combined 256 yards on the game.

Check out the final stats here.

On finding holes to run through, Forsett had this to say: "It was pretty easy. I've got a great offensive line and great fullbacks, they keep blocking for me, like Owen Schmitt and David Kirtman, they're out there blocking for me. So it's pretty easy to go out there and just run and find an opening."

On his chances to make the team, Forsett had this to say: "I take it step by step. I want to go and make the team first of all. And then they're going to use me wherever they want to use me. So I'm just going out there, wherever they put me, I'm going to give them 100 percent."

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Right tackle Sean Locklear is out for the remainder of the preseason at least with a sprained left knee. Mike Holmgren said he will get an MRI today. Also, Rob Sims had to get x-rays on his right hand after getting it mashed up. It was stiff and swollen in the postgame locker room.

Holmgren was not exactly pleased with Charlie Frye's performance. When asked to assess it, he said he will reserve judgment until reviewing the film -- which is to say, I don't want to comment on what I'm really thinking right now. He said the 3 INTs were bad. He said his decision-making on the interception return for a TD was bad. Having said that, the guy played the entire time and won an NFL game. As for Frye, he said the INT for a touchdown kind of woke him up and made him start focusing and playing. He said he was very winded because the game was so hot.

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The Seahawks take a 9-5 lead into the locker room after the Bears kicked a 39-yard field goal with 21 seconds left. Charlie Frye has waffled between looking very good and looking very bad, while the defense has looked pretty darn good, I think. Leroy Hill has been sensational and Josh Wilson has made some pretty good plays.

Frye's favorite target has been Jordan Kent, who is making a good case for not only making the team but moving into the rotation of wideouts. He is the only one who has done anything of note. Courtney Taylor nearly caught a deep pass on the first possession but just missed it and has done nothing since. Justin Forsett continues to make play, returning a punt 40 yards to set up the last of Brandon Coutu's three field goals in three attempts. Mare has booted all but one kickoff into the end zone, though he did have the wind at his back in the first quarter. He has two touchbacks.

The offerings will be sparse in the second half because I have to write on deadline with the night start.

Darrell McGlover beat C.J. Wallace on the right side and blocked Reggie Hodges' punt. The ball got knocked into the end zone, and Lance Laury punched it out of the end zone to give the Bears a safety. The Seahawks lead, 6-2.

OK, a lot has happened. Charlie Frye was trying to throw a pass to Jordan Kent, who already had caught three passes from Frye, and was intercepted by Charles Tillman. It looked to be both Frye's and Kent's fault on the play, Frye for forcing the ball, Kent for not making much of a play.

Then, Leroy Hill intercepted Rex Grossman when Darryl Tapp mashed him, and returned it to the 5. John Carlson had a false start on first down and the offense didn't do anything thereafter, leaving Coutu to kick a 26-yarder for a 6-0 score.

The Seahawks right tackle is out with a knee sprain and will not return tonight. He missed a practice earlier in the week with a sore knee -- though we were not told if it was the right or left. Ray Willis has replaced Locklear.

Julius Jones, in his first start, got a first down on a third and 8 run, but he was hit by Kevin Payne and fumbled the ball backward. Ben Obomanu recovered, allowing Brandon Coutu to kick a 48-yard field goal for a 3-0 lead.

The tight end suffered a knee injury on Marcus Trufant' tackle and will not return to the game.

If it looked on the first play of the game like Rex Grossman thought the play was called dead and the Seahawks gave a half-hearted effort on the tackle, it was because there is somebody with a whistle in the stands. The lead official has talked to security several times to see if they can find the whistle. The same thing happened last year, I forget the game offhand, but I think the Seahawks tackled the punter and the officials waved off the play.

Chicago's first possession ended with a sack of Rex Grossman by Leroy Hill, but the thing that stood out to me in that series was that Lawrence Jackson, playing defensive end, dropped back into coverage and made a nice play to deny a Bears receiver the ball. That's something I haven't really seen before with him.

These players will not be suiting up:

Kevin Jones
Brandon McGowan
Terrance Metcalf
Chris Williams
Rashied Davis
Tommie Harris
Dusty Dvoracek

Josh Beekman will start at LG for Metcalf
Kevin Payne will start at SS for McGowan
Israel Idonije will start at DT for Harris.

I know it comes as a huge shock, but the Seahawks just announced that Charlie Frye is starting in place of Matt Hasselbeck.

Not playing tonight:

Ryan Plackemeier
Joel Filani
Jordan Babineaux
Tyler Schmitt
Will Herring
Chris Spencer
Samuel Gutekunst
Red Bryant
Deion Branch
Bobby Engram
Chris Cooper
Larry Tripplett
Patrick Kerney

Here we are at Qwest, me, Eric Williams and Dave Boling for tonight's game against the Chicago Bears. There is a high school or pee wee game (I can't even tell anymore) going on right now, and the Seahawks are out on the field stretching and warming up. Only a few Bears players out there. The Heat has to play a factor in this game tonight, although the field is already in the shade.

A Saturday morning primer as we prepare for tonight's game against Chicago.

Seattle Seahawks

Frank Hughes of the TNT writes that Charlie Frye is ready to take advantage of his opportunity in tonight’s game against Chicago.

Aaron Fentress of the Oregonian says a focus of tonight’s game for the Seahawks will be the play of the team’s young receivers with Bobby Engram and Deion Branch injured.

Matt Hasselbeck practiced on Thursday but likely will not play in tonight’s game. But he should be ready to go next week.

While half the teams in the NFL are scrambling to fill shaky quarterback situations, that’s not the case for Seattle, writes Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald.

An complete overview of the Seahawks provided by ESPN’s Mike Sando can be found here.

Even though it’s preseason, some Chicago players are concerned about false starts heading into Qwest Field. The Bears had four false start penalties in a game last season at Qwest.

Who will emerge as the starting quarterback for the Bears, Kyle Orton or Rex Grossman? That question should get more clarity after tonight’s game.

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A tour around the NFC West on what is predicted to be a scorching hot Friday afternoon.

Seattle Seahawks

Frank Hughes writes about Patrick Kerney returning to practice. Seattle head coach Mike Holmgren also said that he might try and rest Kerney more this season so he doesn’t break down toward the end of the year.

Gregg Bell of the Associated Press updates us on Matt Hasselbeck’s back injury and also provides a description of some drills former quarterbacks coach Jim Zorn used to help Charlie Frye improve his throwing motion.

Roy Johnson of Yahoo wonders aloud if Shaun Alexander has taken his last NFL handoff.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald writes about veteran kicker Orlindo Mare’s battle with rookie Brandon Coutu to make the final roster.

ESPN’s Mike Sando provides a pretty good run down on how the Seahawks draft picks are faring so far during training camp.

David Baugh of the Chicago Tribune believes Rex Grossman needs a good performance against Seattle on Saturday in order to remain in the battle for starting quarterback against Kyle Orton.

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With a morning walkthrough that is not open to the media, I thought I'd do a roster analysis looking at where things stand since the Bobby Engram injury was announced. The more I look at it, I think they may be a bit unbalanced, taking a spot from the defense to give to the offense. Here is what I worked out:

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

In: Matt Hasselbeck, Seneca Wallace, Charlie Frye
Longshot: Dalton Bell.

Running Backs

In: Julius Jones, Maurice Morris, Leonard Weaver, Owen Schmitt
On the bubble: T.J. Duckett, Justin Forsett
Longshot: David Kirtman
Comments: The decision on Duckett is interesting. I still think he is in, if for no other reason than insurance in case one of the others gets hurt. And I also think Mike Holmgren envisions using him as a battering ram at the end of games where the Seahawks have a lead and need to run out the clock. Plus, he was given $4 million guaranteed. Forsett is a talent whom the coaches love but is probably headed for the practice squad.

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Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck met with us after the afternoon practice in helmet and shells and for the most part said he is not playing on Saturday against Chicago. "I've got a feeling based on reps, but I haven't been told anything," Hasselbeck said.

Hasselbeck said he would like to play in the game, especially since it is at home, but "it is not my call." He said he is happy for Charlie Frye, though, he has been working hard and he deserves a shot to play in the game. He also said he appreciates the chance for backup QBs to play in the preseason because he used to be the guy who only played in the preseason.

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This is the last real practice at the facility in Kirkland before the team moves to Renton on Monday. They have one more practice this afternoon and then a substitution practice tomorrow morning, and then they are out of here.

There were a bunch of people back at this practice, including Patrick Kerney, Matt Hasselbeck, Leonard Weaver, Sean Locklear and Josh Wilson, who never really left but had a scare yesterday. Hasselbeck's participation was limited, and he is not likely to play this weekend, but Mike Holmgren said it is nothing to be concerned about. Kerney will not play this weekend but said he hopes to be suited up on Monday morning and wants to play the final two preseason games.

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Some football news to chew on this morning while you figure out how to weasel your way out of the office to enjoy the weather.

Seattle Seahawks

With only a couple days left at the old practice facility in Kirkland, Dave Boling takes a stroll down memory lane with the recently retired Mack Strong, who shares his best memories on the old place.

Charlie Frye will get an opportunity to show what he can do this week. He doesn’t have to spectacular, just efficient.

A good read on Tacoma native and all-around nice guy Marcus Trufant from Gregg Bell of the Associated Press.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald talks to Jordan Kent, who improves daily in his battle to earn a spot at receiver.

Here’s a quick look at Seattle’s opponent this week – Chicago. The Bears still are embroiled in a quarterback competition, with Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton locked in a stalemate.

Head coach Lovie Smith said he could play his starters into the 3rd quarter on Saturday.

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I emailed my friend Brad Biggs, who covers the Bears, asking him about Devin Hester's role for Saturday's game. Here is what he emailed back:

"Hester returned one punt last week and was back deep for three. He did not make an appearance on kickoff returns but has lobbied to get a chance. I'd expect to see him in a minimal roll on teams."

This is a press release from the Northwest Motorcoach Assocation:

SEATTLE, WA — August 13, 2008 — Members of the Northwest Motorcoach Association (NWMCA) today announced a cooperative venture to provide fan shuttle service to and from Seahawk games at Qwest Field during the 2008 season. This unprecedented move by the regional association of private motorcoach operators comes on the heels of a decision by the Seahawks to not fund fan shuttles for 2008 home games.

The NWCMA plan offers transportation to Seahawk’s games aboard private motorcoaches, as well as a new online booking system to secure shuttle tickets and reservations in advance. This service will be available to fans throughout the Puget Sound region and can include people from Portland, Yakima and Bellingham.

“Our members saw a need, so we collectively decided to make sure fans have secure, dependable and affordable transportation to Seahawk games,” said Paul Downes NWCA President and President of RAZ Transportation. “Since the Seahawks decided against funding fan shuttles for this season, we felt this was a good opportunity to step in and provide a service many people rely on for getting to and from the football games. Using our environmentally-friendly motorcoaches means fans can avoid parking and traffic hassles, save on gas costs, and have a ready-made designated driver.”

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is a sore knee.

This afternoon's practice was a special teams affair, which afforded the opportunity to speak with special teams coach Bruce DeHaven.

DeHaven said he is going to spend this week once again on finding guys who can play -- and want to play -- special teams, then in the third and fourth weeks he starts playing the guys he think will make the 53- and 45-man rosters a little longer. Having said that, you may perhaps see Devin Hester rip off a few big runs this Saturday.

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This is from Deion Branch's charitable foundation:

KIRKLAND – Seattle Seahawks Wide Receiver Deion Branch and his Deion Branch Charitable Foundation will present a Tuesday evening filled with fun, laughs, celebrity bowling on Tuesday, September 9 to benefit Meningitis Research. The Deion Branch’s “Charitabowl ” will begin at 6p.m. on September 9 at Lucky Strike located in Bellevue’s Lincoln Square Mall.

Team sponsorship in the tournament is $2,500 for a four-person team, and includes dinner, parking, a “Charitabowl” limited-edition bowling shirt and a team photo with Deion Branch. Individual tickets are available at a cost of $350. The “Charitabowl” will help raise funds and draw attention to meningitis research.

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For one of the first times this training camp, the usually subdued offense started yapping as much as the defense, making for a lively practice this morning under stellar blue skies.

The exchanges started when it appeared that Mansfield Wrotto carried a block pretty far downfield, prompting the defenders not in the play to start barking at the offense. As the defense was hooting and hollering, offensive line coach Mike Solari was literally screaming at his players, "That's a way to come off the line. That's a way to come off the line."

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Here's a look around the NFC West as the Seahawks head into this Saturday's game against Chicago.

Seattle Seahawks
He may be the best linebacker on the team, but Leroy Hill is not paid like it. That will all change after this season when his contract is up. Frank Hughes of The News Tribune talks to Hill about his contract situation.

The days keep ticking by and still no sign of center Chris Spencer working with the team. Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald ask when Spencer, out with a back injury, may be back for the Hawks

A story on Maurice Morris looking for his shot to start in Seattle. He certainly took advantage of his first opportunity against Minnesota last week.

Tim Booth of the Associated Press checks in with Courtney Taylor, who says he’s ready to help fill the void left by the injured Bobby Engram.

=> Read more!

That's right, Floyd "Pork Chop" Womack suited up and practiced today, and looked decent working during team drills at left tackle. Womack had missed several days with a knee injury and has spent more time in the training room than on the field so far in camp. But if he's able to stay healthy (I know a big if) he could provide some depth at O-line for the Seahawks with his ability to play both guard and tackle.

"It feels good," Womack said. "It always feels good to get back to practice. You want to be on the same page as everybody out there. It's never good to be on the sideline watching practice."

Womack said he doesn't know if he'll be ready to go for Chicago, and just plans on getting out on the field the next few days and seeing how it goes.

=> Read more!

Seahawks fans that normally use King County Metro Transit’s Seahawks game day bus service from park-and-ride lots will need to secure alternate transportation to the preseason games, the team announced today.

This past April, the Federal Transit Administration ruled that if any private bus operators are interested in providing game day transportation services for fans then Metro would not be permitted to operate the bus service. The Seahawks were obligated to negotiate with those charter bus companies.

The Seahawks received one bid which included an increase in passenger fares by $14. In addition, the bid did not include approvals to use roadways, park-and-ride lots and staging areas that are necessary to operate the service safely and effectively.

“We are very disappointed,” said Seahawks CEO Tod Leiweke. “We have made the game day experience one of our highest priorities. The bid we received did not address our requirements for a safe, effective or reliable bus plan. We will continue to work toward a resolution to meet the needs of our fans.”

For those impacted fans, the Seahawks recommend using regular Metro service, Sound Transit ST Express buses and the Sounder Train. ST Express buses offer transportation from areas throughout Pierce, King and Snohomish counties with service every 30 minutes and stops within three blocks of Qwest Field.

The Hawks just wrapped up this morning's practice, and with quarterback Matt Hasselbeck missing for the third straight day and veteran receiver Bobby Engram on the shelf for 6-8 weeks, you can imagine how the offense looked passing the ball -- ragged.

In particular, the young receivers really struggled getting off press coverage, as they were knocked off their routes on more than one occasion by physical play from defensive backs like Marcus Trufant.

Seattle head coach Mike Holgren vented his frustrations with the offense in general, and the receivers inability to get open in particular, chastising the offense for looking sloppy during team and 7-on-7 drills.

Quarterback Charlie Frye continued to take most of the reps with the first team, as it appears he will get a lot more action this weekend against Chicago if Hasselbeck's back continues to bother him.

=> Read more!

The Seahawks waived/injured cornerback Derrick Johnson, who was with the team for all of three plays in practice before injuring his toe, and linebacker Matt Castelo.

They signed linebacker Dallas Sartz from USC and cornerback Marquis Floyd, who promptly took Johnson's #29. With Tubbs being released this morning, they have room to sign one more guy to the 80-man roster.

Charlie Frye putting in so much time with the first unit makes one wonder if he is going to see the majority of the time against Chicago this Saturday. With Matt Hassel(bad)beck sitting out the last two days, it seems there would be no reason for him to risk his health in a meaningless preseason game. Probably better to let Frye get a lot of time now that he is comfortable in the offense, then bring in Seneca in the second half.

=> Read more!

OK, I double-checked with the Seahawks and Bobby Engram cannot be placed on the physically unable to perform list. The player would have had to be placed on the PUP before camp started (like Tubbs, Branch or Plackemeier) in order to be eligible for the PUP list.

What this means is that somebody like Justin Forsett or David Hawthorne is going to lose a roster spot because there will be a dead spot -- and possibly two with Branch -- on the roster until one or both of those guys get back. It does bode well for Jordan Kent or Michael Bumpus. Holmgren revised his earlier calculations of 11 RBs/WRs, saying they would have to carry more WRs. Forsett's best option was to squeeze in under the wire as a special teamer.

Also, I forgot to mention this earlier, but Holmgren said that there is a chance that Steve Vallos is the opening day center. He said Chris Spencer's back is not even allowing him to tie his shoes right now, and he needs some valuable practice time to get in sync with teammates. Obviously, with less than three weeks left before the start, his time is dwindling.

Mike Holmgren's post-practice news conference started out innocently enough, talking about this and that.

And then we asked about Marcus Tubbs, and he drops in that they "put him on some list." On a list? Yeah, some list, not physically unable to perform list, because he essentially is a free agent. A free agent? You mean, like, he's been cut? Well, we wanted to let him go so he can get healthy and if he gets better he is welcome to come back.

Then, a few minutes later, he drops in that things are difficult with Engram. What happened with Bobby, Mike? Oh, well, he cracked a bone in his shoulder and is out for 6-8 weeks. Hmmm, that might be something you want to start the news conference with.

=> Read more!

The Seahawks waived defensive lineman Marcus Tubbs today, effectively ending his career as a Seahawk.

Mike Holmgren said the former first-round pick kept having setbacks in his rehabilitation from knee surgery and that they decided he just wasn't going to be able to make it, thus making him a free agent. He worked out against the sled in the past few days, his knee swelled up and the team decided to let him go after he failed his physical. Though Holmgren said there is a chance he comes back if he gets healthy, that does not seem like a likely scenario.

Seahawks wide receiver Bobby Engram cracked a bone in his shoulder in Friday's game in Minnesota and is out for 6-8 weeks.

Mike Holmgren said that Courtney Taylor is slotted to step into that spot, but nothing it given. I wanted to get this out there and then I'll provide more in a later post.

There’s not much going today with most teams holding light practices over the weekend. But I managed to dig up a few tidbits worth checking out this morning.

Seattle Seahawks

Here's a short feature I wrote for today on ex-WSU receiver Michael Bumpus. While probably on the outside looking in with the rest of talented, young players in the competition at receiver, Bumpus has looked good so far in camp.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald takes a look at some unheralded players who have made an impact so far in camp, including Howard Green, David Hawthorne and Jamar Adams.

Mike Kahn checks in with an overview of how the Seahawks training camp is going so far, along with five keys to the team’s success this season.

=> Read more!

The Seahawks ran through a light, special-teams practice, working on kick returns and punt protection.

Josh Wilson, Courtney Taylor, Ben Obomanu and Jordan Kent worked as returners during kickoff returns.

With punter Ryan Plackemeier returning from a torn pectoral muscle, he looked OK kicking the ball but showed some rust in getting off a solid kick once every three times. Reggie Hodges continues to kick well, but I think Plackemeier has the stronger leg and higher hang time on his punts.

Special teams coach Bruce DeHaven talked to reporters after practice, and said he's using the first couple preseason games to find young players who can help on kickoff cover teams. DeHaven said he is more concerned with providing an opportunity for those guys to showcase their talent then going with the team that will actually start the regular season.

"In the exhibition season, there's usually never more than two or three guys on our kickoff team that's going to be there when the season starts," DeHaven said. "Because I'm just trying to find guys like I found C.J. Wallace last year that might be good cover guys."

Plackemeier appeared to be OK reaching for the snaps and securing the ball, leading DeHaven to believe he's ready to go.

"How well he'll punt I don't know," DeHaven said. "But in terms of being ready to punt, I think he's in pretty good shape now."

Probably as more of a precaution than anything else, Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck sat out this morning's practice to rest a sore back. Hasselbeck came out with the rest of the team and stretched, but apparently couldn't get his back warmed up and ran past a perplexed-looking Mike Holmgren as he headed toward the locker room, saying he would be back. But Hasselbeck never returned.

Linebacker Lofa Tatupu also sat out practice to rest a knee injury. Both are expected to practice tomorrow.

Bobby Engram is banged up and also did not practice this morning.

=> Read more!

After today's morning practice I'll post an injury update and other news and notes from practice today. Here are a some links to begin your morning.

Seattle Seahawks

Improved play at running back and defensive tackle Howard Green’s play are just a few of the things that impressed Dave Boling in Seattle’s win over Minnesota on Friday.

Frank Hughes talks to long-time, play-by-play announcer Kevin Calabro about his first experience announcing an NFL game, and hints that it might not be his last.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald talks to Bobby Engram about his unresolved contract situation.

Some post-game news and notes from Mike Kahn at Seahawks.com.

=> Read more!

Running back T.J. Duckett: The oversized halfback looked almost disinterested, picking up nine yards on seven carries – and seven of those yards came on one carry. Worse for Duckett, he fumbed twice, an absolute no-no for Mike Holmgren. The Seahawks got them back both times, once because of a facemask penalty and once because the officials ruled Duckett was down. Still, that does not erase the memory.

Cornerback Josh Wilson: When he came in as the nickel back, he got beat. And when he was a starting corner, he was beat. On one play, after he let the receiver get past him, he stopped and watched two teammates make the tackle while he pulled up.

Cornerback Marcus Trufant: Not that he is in danger of losing his job, but he had a pretty rancid game. One blown coverage that resulted in a big gain, one missed tackle that resulted in a big gain and one interference penalty in the end zone that ultimately resulted in a Vikings touchdown. Though he didn’t call him out by name afterward, Holmgren clearly was not pleased.

Running back Julius Jones: He did not get many opportunities, but the one time he got the ball in a third-and-1 situation, he was stopped – and was clearly upset about it afterward. With all eyes on that aspect of the game, those are the plays that need to be converted into first downs.

Defensive end Darryl Tapp: Not that Tapp did anything noticeably bad. He just didn’t do anything noticeable, period. His competition, however, rookie Lawrence Jackson, was very noticeable, all over the field, even getting a sack of his USC teammate John David Booty. Tapp needs to begin making more of an impact or he may be relegated to a one-down defender.

Linebacker David Hawthorne: Already rising in the opinions of the coaching staff, Hawthorne’s heavy hitting jetted him up the depth chart and may have helped him earn a roster spot as the team’s sixth linebacker if Will Herring is unable to get healthy. Hawthorne jarred the ball loose with a massive hit on Albert Young, was part of the tackle that created another fumble and had six total tackles, two for losses.

Running back Justin Forsett: The kid continues to run hard, rarely going down when he is hit for the first time. He has no qualms about driving straight into a pile of bigger players either. Even as the game was coming to a conclusion behind the third-team players, Forsett carried the ball 13 times for 58 yards, a respectable 4.5 average.

=> Read more!

For obvious reasons, I was not able to watch the broadcast of last night's game. For those of you who watched, I wanted to solicit your opinion on Kevin Calabro's first foray into announcing football games. How did he do? What did you like? What didn't you like? How was his interaction with Warren Moon? Anything that comes to mind would help. Thanks in advance.

This is an unedited version of my game story that will appear in tomorrow's News Tribune:

By Frank Hughes
Frank.hughes@thenewstribune.com

MINNEAPOLIS – If there was ever a doubt about where exactly the Seattle Seahawks currently resided in the hierarchy of talent among NFC teams, they assuaged at least some of those concerns with their 34-17 victory over the Minnesota Vikings Friday night.
From the strikingly efficient play of starting quarterback Matt Hasselbeck to the inspired appearance of Seneca Wallace to the bucket full of fumbles created by the defense, the Seahawks turned Mike Holmgren’s last first preseason game into a somewhat celebratory occasion.
Not that Holmgren would feel that a meaningless loss was particularly lamentable. But walking out of the Metrodome with their second consecutive preseason victory over the Vikings in as many years certainly validates the hard work both the players and coaches have put in during training camp -- and confirms that they remain the favorites to win a fifth consecutive NFC West title.
“You like to win the first game, they feel pretty good, and we did that,” Holmgren said. “But they can’t feel real great because they made a number of errors that we can coach to. But that’s kind of what you want in a first game; win the game but also correct some things in some meetings.”

=> Read more!

Mike Holmgren said this game was the perfect outcome: it was nice to get a win but also a good teaching tool because there were a lot of mistakes that were made that need to be worked on. Holmgren sounded as if he was not pleased with coverage by the defensive backs, especially the first unit; he also said there were some communication issues with the coaches that hurt the team during the game. He said he thought the running game did very well, center Steve Vallos did well and he liked the tempo of the first-team offense led by Matt Hasselbeck.

=> Read more!

I have to start writing right now, but I wanted to touch on the kicking competition before I start hammering the keys. For this game, Bruce DeHaven allowed Mare to handle the field goals and extra points and Coutu to do the kickoffs. Besides a lame opening kick that fluttered and landed at the 10, Coutu has done a reasonable job of getting the ball near the goalline. Unfortunately his teammates have not done such a great job bringing down the runner. But all his kicks after the first have been inside the 5, and the one that was returned to midfield was two or three yards deep in the end zone. Mare was solid on his attempts.

Seneca Wallace just completed a one-yard TD pass to Joel Filani, allowing the Seahawks to take a 31-17 lead. It looked like the formation was messed up on the scoring play because both Owen Schmitt and T.J. Duckett were in a split backfield on the right side. I've never seen that one before. I think Schmitt was confused.

The score was setup by a fumble recovery, caused by safety Jamar Adams on Maurice Hicks. Lance Laury recovered. David Hawthorne also was there for the hit and was celebrating, but it looked to me like Adams had the initial contact. It seems like Hawthorne virtually won a job tonight. This place is starting to empty out now.

A fortuitous turn of events allowed Seneca Wallace to find wide receiver Trent Shelton for a seven-yard TD pass, giving Seattle a 24-17 lead. The Seahawks probably should have not had the ball after T.J. Duckett fumbled and Minnesota recovered, but the officials said Letroy Guion had a facemask penalty before Duckett put the ball on the ground, giving it back to Seattle. Two plays later, Seneca snapped his pass to Shelton.

Incidentally, the Seahawks got the ball in the first place because David Hawthorne put a wicked hit on Albert Young, forcing a fumble that Kevin Hobbs recovered.

The intensity of the game has dropped now that the starters are out, and the score is tied at 17 now that Minnesota has kicked a field goal just before the half. It'll be interesting to see if Mike Holmgren decides to go with Seneca or Charlie Frye in the second half. Incidentally, Julius Jones was very upset after getting stopped on a third and 1. He stomped off the field and then ripped off his helmet and gloves as he stood on the sideline. You kind of get the impression that he wants to do something to prove himself to his new team, but Mo Morris got the start and all the runs with the first line and now Jones is relegated to playing with the second line.

The first team has officially given way to the backups, at least on offense. We'll see what the defense does.

Chester Taylor scored on a one-yard run, which was set up by Marcus Trufant's interference call in the end zone. Trufant already got beat by Bernard Berrian for a big game, missed a tackle that allowed another big gain and then had the interference call.

Julian Peterson was very upset about the TD run. He felt the Seahawks stopped Taylor, who tried to jump over the pile and get the ball across the goal line. Peterson met him at the top of the leap and sent him backward. I couldn't tell on the replays if Taylor actually got across. Either way, the Seahawks now lead, 17-14.

Though he said he didn't want to wear it, it appears to me that middle linebacker Lofa Tatupu is wearing the speaker in his helmet. He has the green sticker on the back of his helmet indicating he has the device.

Behind Seneca Wallace, the Seahawks crafted a nine-play, 71-yard drive, capped by Wallace hitting tight end Jeb Putzier on a crossing pattern, allowing Putzier to waltz into the end zone. Seattle leads, 17-7. Seneca was 3-for-3 on that drive for 33 yards.

Just like the first preseason game last year, Matt Hasselbeck got in two series and is done for the night, replaced by Seneca Wallace. The rest of the offense appears to be the same, including Walter Jones at left tackle. Hasselbeck finished the game 7 for 8 for 70 yards and a TD.

Aided by a 53-yard kickoff return that allowed the Vikings to start at midfield, Minnesota just scored on a six-yard TD pass from Tavaris Jackson to Thomas Tapeh. There seemed to be a miscommunication on coverage on a big pass play to Bernard Berrian, who got away from Marcus Trufant. It looked like Trufant thought he was getting help.

Leroy Hill, Lofa Tatupu and Brandon Mebane all triple-teamed Vikings wide receiver Visanthe Shiancoe to force a fumble, recovered by Deon Grant, after which Mo Morrs ripped off his second big run of the night. The drive stalled one yard short of a first down on the 3, leaving Olindo Mare to kick a 21-yard field goal. The Seahawks are dominating so far.

Well, that was easy. The Seahawks raced down the field in seven plays and scored on an 18-yard pass from Matt Hasselbeck to Jordan Kent, who beat Cedric Griffin to the back corner of the end zone. Minnesota was called for two penalties on the scoring play, but it didn't matter.

A couple things: The Seahawks came out in their regular formation, with Leonard Weaver and Mo Morris in the backfield and Will Heller as the starting tight end. On the scoring play, they were in their four-wide set, with Kent, Courtney Taylor, Nate Burleson and Ben Obomanu.

#8 was 4-for-5 on the drive for 53 yards.

CB Marcus McCauley

TE Garrett Mills

DE Brian Robinson

Referee John Parry
Umpire Carl Madsen
Head linesman Derick Bowers
Line judge Ron Marinucci
Field judge Craig Wrolstad
Side judge Keith Washington
Back judge Perry Paganelli
Replay Jim Blackwood
Video Ken Dollar

It was odd being here on a warm day. Because I covered the NBA for so long, I was always in Minneapolis on frigid winter days and normally never even went outside, using the skywalks to get around town. It made me always have a pretty skeptical view of the city. But today was around 70 degrees, affording the opportunity to take a run down by the Mississippi River. The city revealed itself as very pleasant -- though there are UFC bouts here this weekend and those fans are walking all over town with a bit of a maniacal look in their eyes. I keep waiting for a fight to break out in the middle of the street. BY the way, the bridge that collapsed here about 18 months ago is almost rebuilt.

Here is the list of the walking wounded who will not play tonight:

Ryan Plackemeier

Logan Payne (which is a shame since he went to University of Minnesota)

Jordan Babineaux

Will Herring

Chris Spencer

Nu'u Tafisi

Samuel Gutekunst

Floyd Womack

Red Bryant

Deion Branch

Marcus Tubbs

Chris Cooper

Larry Tripplett

Patrick Kerney

As I did last season, I will be blogging from the stadium's press box during the game, trying to fill you in on stuff that you might not see on the television broadcast or giving general impressions. I plan on getting to the stadium around 3 o'clock Pacific time and will blog throughout.

Only a little over seven hours before game time. Tonight's game will be broadcast at 5 p.m. on KONG. If you're not close to a TV you can also listen to the game on 710 KIRO or 97.3 FM. And as usual, we'll have updates throughout tonight's game here. Here are some links to tide you over until then.

Seattle Seahawks

Frank Hughes talks to Julius Jones, who is ready for some action. Hughes also offers some things to look for in the Seahawks’ preseason game against Minnesota today.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald addresses Seattle’s running-back-by-committee approach to this season, which will get its first look today.

Some of the focus of tonight’s game will be on Seahawks’ center Steve Vallos, who goes up against two of the best defensive tackles in the league in Minnesota’s Pat and Kevin Williams.

Former Seahawk and current Minnesota left guard Steve Hutchinson says his team’s chemistry compares favorably to the tight-knit locker room Seattle had during its Super Bowl season.

Rick Alonzo of the St. Pioneer Press says the focus for the Vikings will be at quarterback, with starter Tarvaris Jackson, along with Gus Frerotte, Brooks Bollinger and John David Booty all possibly getting some snaps.

=> Read more!

Here are some position battles to keep an eye on heading into Friday’s game at Minnesota

Who shines at receiver: Ben Obomanu, Courtney Taylor, Logan Payne and Jordan Kent have all made plays at times during training camp. But the first to make a play in preseason action will take the lead in this tight competition at receiver. Obomanu looked good in practice this past week, but Taylor’s explosiveness after the catch and Kent’s ability to stretch a defense also make them desirable picks to fill in until Deion Branch is ready. Payne probably will not play due to cracked ribs.

Another big game for Forsett? Rookie Justin Forsett was one of the bright spots in the Seahawks scrimmage last week, but will he respond again with a big performance? We’ll see. Forsett brings a different dimension to Seattle’s offense with his elusiveness, but more than likely he’s headed to the practice squad at the end of the preseason.

=> Read more!

Today's links, and a reminder that the Arizona-New Orleans game is on TV tonight, 5 p.m. on ESPN.

Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks new practice facility, the VMAC (Virginia Mason Athletic Center) opens to rave reviews according to Frank Hughes.

In this story Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald discusses the adversity Mike Holmgren faced during his 10 years as head coach in Seattle, including the passing away of his mother Barbara and good friend, defensive coordinator Fritz Shurmur in 2002.

Associated Press reporter Tim Booth also writes about the new practice facility here.

For those who want to get a look at Brett Favre in a Jets uniform, he’ll play against Seattle on Dec. 21, as New York plays against NFC West teams this season.

An update on former Seahawk and current Carolina Panther D.J. Hackett, who will start the first two games of the season with Steve Smith suspended.

=> Read more!

You asked for it, you got it. Here are some photos taken by Jim Bryant of the Associated Press today at the new Virginia Mason Athletic Center:

This is the indoor field, housed in what looks like a Boeing hangar.

This is the outdoor field with the VMAC behind it.

This is the indoor workout pool for injured players. There is even a treadmill under the water, and there is a place below for the trainer to monitor the player underwater.

This is the locker room giving you the bird.

Today's workout, with Lake Washington in the back.

The afternoon practice offered a strange sight: None of the players were wearing helmets. Instead, most were wearing camoflauge baseball hats with the Seahawks logo on it. All but the offensive lineman, who wore nothing. We were guessing it was because their heads were too big, but there could be another explanation -- something like Walter doesn't like to wear hats.

=> Read more!

Here is a chart comparing the dimensions of the new VMAC compared to the practice facility in Kirkland:

The Seahawks could not have picked a prettier day to hold their first practice at their new practice facility in Renton. A 12th Man flag was flying on the northwest corner of the fields, and an eagle took the time to do a couple passes by the field for effect. (It reminded me of the movie Funny Farm, where they are trying to sell the place and Chevy Chase says, "Cue the deer.") At one point, defensive tackle Craig Terrill walks up to assistant coach John Jamison and says, "This place is crappy. I can't practice here."

The fields were pristine, though I have to say there is far different depth perception than at the facility in Kirkland, where this afternoon's practice will be held. It is way more open and not as many trees, so things look much farther away than they actually are. There were a couple hundred VIPs who got to watch practice, and then Tod Leiweke, Tim Ruskell and Mike Holmgren addressed them afterward in a tent on the lake.

=> Read more!

This was forwarded to me by the PR folks at SIRIUS; it's a transcript of Holmgren's conversation with Adam Schein re: Packers QB Brett Favre.

Host, Adam Schein: “What’s your read on the entire [Favre/Green Bay] situation?”

Mike Holmgren: “I’ve purposely stayed away from commenting and, certainly, picking sides because I know all the principals involved and I like them all and they’re friends of mine. To me, the whole thing, I’m a little saddened by it. I think there are a lot of wonderful stories in the league going on right now and that thing has seemed to dominate, pretty much, the airwaves. I like them both. I understand the Packers’ situation. I understand Brett’s situation. It’s a tough one.”

=> Read more!

Some links to start your day.

Seattle Seahawks

Here’s a feature I wrote on receiver Ben Obomanu, who has played well of late in the battle between young receivers at camp.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald talks with Steve Vallos, who will be the team’s starting center heading into Friday’s game against Minnesota.

As always, Mike Sando offers a thorough roster analysis of the Seahawks here.

There’s slim pickings if you’re looking for Seahawks tickets as they sell out in minutes after being released Monday morning.

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Not much to report from this afternoon's practice. The Seahawks went light this afternoon, practicing in shells and emphasizing learning in most of the drills.

The injured players watching these practices continues to grow, which isn't a good sign heading into this Friday's game at Minnesota. Most guys are sitting as a precaution as head coach Mike Holmgren wants to keep guys with nagging injuries from suffering something that could keep them from playing in the season opener.

But with the 80-man roster the numbers are getting thin, particularly at offensive and defensive line and linebacker.

=> Read more!

This morning’s practice is finished and hard-to-please head coach Mike Holmgren seemed satisfied with the team’s effort, telling the guys good job as the team huddled at midfield on one of the practice fields at the completion of practice.

Holmgren should be happy. The offense looked crisp and several receivers made nice plays in both team and 7-on-7 drills.

Matt Hasselbeck also looked to be in midseason form throwing the ball, hitting receivers in stride on several square outs, skinny posts, fade patterns and inside routes.

The star performer of the day was the silent but deadly Ben Obomanu, who caught everything during practice, including a fade ball over Marcus Trufant for a score from Hasselbeck, and another great play on a deep post route from Hasselbeck with safety Kevin Hobbs on the coverage.

“Receiver seems to be the focal point now obviously,” veteran receiver Bobby Engram said. “And Ben is stepping up. He’s getting his opportunity, and he had a tremendous practice today.”

=> Read more!

Another day of training camp looms, but only three more days until the Seahawks take the field.

Seattle Seahawks

Dave Boling pens a nice tribute to the retiring Chris Gray, showing a player committed to the organization and winning.

Frank Hughes notes with Gray now retired, the Seahawks need to find a new union representative. Brian Russell, who served in that capacity in both Minnesota and Cleveland, could be the man who fills that void.

Gregg Bell of the Associated Press notes that Gray suffered a similar fate as his former teammate Mack Strong did 10 months ago. Strong retired last October after waking up for a game in Pittsburgh with his arm tingling. Doctors told the 36-year-old Strong he had herniated disk in his neck that was pinching his spinal cord.

The Seahawks are ranked ninth in ESPN’s power rankings.

=> Read more!

Well, if reporters standing on the side thought it was boring, imagine what the players involved must have been thinking. No offense to special teams coach Bruce DeHaven, but working on the nuances of kick and punt coverage is, well, kind of a snoozefest, especially on a stunningly beautiful afternoon. Even coach Mike Holmgren looked like he wanted to be somewhere else, standing on the side chatting it up with Julian Peterson.

DeHaven instructed the players, in helmets and shells, on the finer points of the weave on kickoff coverage, but there are only so many atta-boys to be offered for properly running behind a guy the right way.

=> Read more!

There is another new player on the field, though this one is an old player. With Chris Gray announcing his retirement (officially he was placed on the IR) -- which must make Ben Claxton feel a bit more secure -- the Seahawks signed defensive lineman Kevin Brown, who was here for the mini-camps but was released when the roster had to be trimmed to 80. With Chris Cooper and Larry Tripplett sidelined and Red Bryant out for the preseason, there was an immediate need for some help along the defensive front. Brown is wearing N0. 60.

Interception was the play of the day. Though there have been relatively few during this training camp, there were three in a span of about 5 minutes on Monday. First Deon Grant intercepted Matt Hasselbeck, then Kelly Jennings stepped in front of a Hasselbeck pass, after which Lofa Tatupu laid a pretty good pop on T.J. Duckett that brought cheers from his teammates. Finally, Marcus Trufant intercepted a deep Hasselbeck pass intended for Nate Burleson to complete the trifecta. After that, as you can imagine, the D backs started talking a lot of junk, particularly Deon Grant.

=> Read more!

The Seattle Seahawks' veteran center Chris Gray just announced his retirement because of what he said was a low-back spine injury. He said the doctors didn't really give him a choice about retiring because if he injured it again he risked paralysis.

Gray said he was told on Saturday at the scrimmage about the diagnosis, and that he has spent the past 36 hours coming to terms with it. He said he is doing pretty well right now but the past day and a half have been very tough. He said his summer has been filled with football since the 6th grade, and this will be the first time he will not be doing that.

Gray said he suffered the injury while hitting the blocking sled on the second day of camp. "After 20 years of hitting a sled, I guess something finally had to give," Gray said. He said he had absolutely no indication the injury was this serious. He said he had some tingling in his legs but just thought he had a lower back strain. He said he was shocked when the doctors told him what had happened.

For his immediate future, he said he is going to do perhaps some marketing for the team. "Kind of like what Brett Favre is doing," Gray said. "Except I won't be getting $20 million." He said he thinks the offensive line is in fine hands and he doesn't think they need his help with coaching, but he told the organization he would do whatever he could to help out.

So what's happening around the NFC West this morning? Here's a quick look.

Seattle Seahawks

Frank Hughes writes about the plethora of injuries the Seahawks are dealing with after Saturday’s scrimmage.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald takes a look at the defensive end rotation, and how Patrick Kerney and Darryl Tapp might see less snaps with rookie Lawrence Jackson in the mix.

CBS Sports Clark Judge offers a pretty thorough report on the Seahawks’ quest for another deep playoff run in Mike Holmgren’s last year, as Judge makes a stop in Seattle over the weekend.

An interesting note from ESPN’s Mike Sando: The Seahawks will log a league-high 34,766 in ground and air miles in traveling to two exhibition games and eight regular-season games.

The fall out from Carolina receiver Steve Smith sucker punching former Seahawks cornerback Ken Lucas earned Smith a two-game suspension starting the regular season.

Photos from the fight can be found here.

=> Read more!

Here is their release:

SIRIUS NFL Radio - the only radio channel devoted to the NFL 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - will broadcast live from Seattle Seahawks training camp in Kirkland, WA today, August 4.

Veteran SIRIUS host Adam Schein and former NFL defensive back Solomon Wilcots will host “The SIRIUS Blitz” live from 9 am – 12 pm PT, exclusively on SIRIUS NFL Radio channel 124.

The visit is part of the fourth annual SIRIUS NFL Radio Training Camp Tour, which features live on-site broadcasts at all 32 NFL team training camps from July 26 – August 14. SIRIUS hosts will provide an expert look at every team, interview players, coaches and franchise executives, and evaluate everything from the performances of fresh-out-of college rookies to the intense head-to-head competitions for starting roles. All shows air exclusively on SIRIUS NFL Radio.

Rookie Lawrence Jackson was unbelievable in this practice. He regular got to the QB. If I were a coach, I'd start him immediately. Of course, with Walter Jones and Pork Chop and Ray Willis not practicing, Jackson was going against William Robinson, and it was, well painful. The rookie from San Diego State is not close to being able to block the much-quicker Jackson, either during individual drills or team play. Time and again Jackson either sped around him or made a nice inside move and spun to the QB. Fortunately for Seneca Wallace and Charlie Frye, there is no hitting the QB.

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With DeMichael Dizer placed on the IR, the Seahawks signed center Ben Claxton. He was in Oakland's training camp last year and got hurt, and he played in Atlanta under Jim Mora two years ago.

He said he was getting ready to take his LSAT when the New England Patriots called. While he was sitting in the terminal in Charlotte, his agent called and said if things didn't work out in New England that Seattle was interested. When he got to New England, they already had signed somebody else. He still worked out, then hopped a plane to Seattle. He said he was going on about four hours of sleep. He played college ball with Chris Spencer at Ole Miss, where he wants to go to law school when his football career is over.

A lazy Sunday stroll through the NFC West this morning.

Seattle Seahawks

Dave Boling delves into tight end John Carlson’s 4-catch, 33-yard performance, and talks about how Carlson's skill set that might translate in the regular season (read more catches from the TE here).

Frank Hughes provides a good overview of Saturday’s scrimmage, along with some news and notes here.

The Oregonian’s Aaron Fentress checks in with wide receiver Jordan Kent, an elite athlete who made a nice catch on a deep route, and is fighting for a roster spot in a tough battle at receiver.

Gregg Bell of the Associated Press also provides an overview of the scrimmage here.

And you can see some highlights from Friday’s scrimmage here.

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This was a very light, short practice because of an abundance of injuries. They highlight the day, so let's run through them first.

* Cornerback DeMichael Dizer has a torn ACL and needs surgery.
* Kyle Williams banged up his knee and is likely out for 3-4 days.
* Jordan Babineaux injured his knee, is getting an MRI today and his status will be re-evaluated.
* Pork Chop Womack hurt his knee and is having an MRI.
* Logan Payne cracked a rib and is out until it heals. The only thing to do is rest it.
* Nu'u Tafisi hurt his ankle and is likely out 3-4 days.
* Matt Castelo hurt his knee.
* Eric Wicks has a quad contusion.

Courtney Taylor was back at practice but took part only in the drills. He said he will do drills this afternoon, then he wants to come back full-on tomorrow morning in preparation for Friday's game in Minnesota. He said he was ready to come back a few days ago but they are being cautious with him. But he sounded very jazzed to be back and playing.

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Uk-hawk, If anything, I think the receiver situation is more muddled rather than some clarity being provided. All the receivers showed well, including Jordan Kent, and now Michael Bumpus is making people take notice. Because there are so many players ahead of him, Bumpus does not have a shot at making the roster, but he is fighting for a practice squad spot right now. It is going to be very interesting to see how they handle all the young guys regarding roster spots; it also makes me wonder if this is the reason they didn't give Bobby Engram his extension because if you think one of these young guys will take Engram's spot next season there is no reason to give Engram the extension he wants.

Retiredcoach, I know for certain fieldturf is not better for soccer. The soccer guys prefer the natural turf, or at least established natural turf.

charlien, I think they view Howard Green as strictly a backup behind Rocky. I don't see him getting time as a starter unless Rocky or suffers more injuries. In fact, Green may have a hard time making the roster once Red Bryant returns. The numbers don't bode well for him.

Seattle quarterbacks finished 20-of-30 passing for 230 yards and 4 touchdowns. However, there were a couple plays where the defense would have had sacks if they were allowed to tackle the quarterback, including T.J. Duckett’s 7-yard touchdown on a swing pass.

On the ground the Seahawks finished with 26 carries for 94 yards for an average of 3.5 yards a carry. Not something to write home to mom about, but expected with the injuries to the offensive line so far in camp. The 29 passes and 26 runs is a better balance that the Seahawks would like to see continue during the regular season.

Logan Payne (3 catches for 36 yards) and John Carlson (4 catches for 33 yards) both had good days catching the ball, although Payne dropped a pass in red-zone offense where it appeared he took his eyes off the ball because he was working to get into the end zone. Michael Bumpus had the most impressive catch of the day, hauling in a pass from Charlie Frye near the sideline, bouncing off a defender at the 5-yard-line and fighting his way to the goal line for a score.

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One used speed and brute strength and the other nimble footwork, but both Justin Forsett and T.J. Duckett displayed skills that could add another dimension to the Seattle Seahawks’ stagnant running game from a season ago in Saturday’s scrimmage at Qwest Field.

After raising a few eyebrows from sideline observers during training camp, Forsett again displayed flashes of why he should still be in the running back conversation on Saturday, showing a Barry Sanders-like ability to make tacklers miss with a couple cutback runs against the second-team defense.

At 5-foot-8, 194 pounds, Forsett is the smallest back in camp. But he ran hard and finished with 51 yards on nine carries, including a 33-yard scamper on draw up the middle that was the longest running play of the day.

“Somebody got backed up into me and I just hooked him and went around him,” Forsett said. “It was an open play because everybody had backed out. So it was just a good job blocking, and me just trying to make my way upfield.”

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PASSING – Scrimmage
Att. Comp. Yds. Lg TD Int. Sacked
Matt Hasselbeck 1 0 0 0 0 0 1
Seneca Wallace 8 7 69 15 0 0 2
Charlie Frye 14 10 137 53t 2 0 0

PASSING – Red Zone
Att. Comp. Yds. Lg. TD Int. Sacked
Seneca Wallace 3 2 20 13t 1 0 1
Charlie Frye 4 1 6 6t 1 0 0

RECEIVING
Rec. Yds. Avg. Lg. TD
John Carlson 4 33 8.3 10 0
Logan Payne 3 36 12.0 15 0
Ben Obomanu 3 32 10.7 13t 1
Bryan Gilmore 2 16 8.0 11 0
T.J. Duckett 2 13 6.5 7 1
Justin Forsett 2 5 2.5 6 0
Jordan Kent 1 53 53.0 53t 1
Michael Bumpus 1 23 23.0 23t 1
Owen Schmitt 1 17 17.0 17 0
Joe Newton 1 4 4.0 4 0

-includes scrimmage and red-zone receptions

RUSHING
Att. Yds. Avg. Lg. TD
Justin Forsett 9 51 5.7 33 0
T.J. Duckett 9 25 2.8 7 0
Maurice Morris 3 9 3.0 6 0
Owen Schmitt 2 5 2.5 5 0
Charlie Frye 1 3 3.0 3 0
Seneca Wallace 1 1 1.0 1t 1
Julius Jones 1 0 0.0 0 0

-includes scrimmage and red-zone receptions

FIELD GOALS

Olindo Mare 4/5 – (43) (38) (43) (48) (43 NG)
Brandon Coutu 6/8 – (48 NG) (48) (38) (43) (48) (33) (51 NG) (56)

DEFENSE
Player TT UT AST Sacks PD
D. Hawthorne 6 5 1
J. Adams 6 2 4 1
L. Laury 5 2 3
J. Babin 4 3 1 2.0
C. Wallace 4 2 2
L. Hill 4 0 4
J. Babineaux 3 2 1 1
K. Hobbs 3 2 1 2
E. Wicks 3 0 3
C. Cooper 3 2 1 0.5
O. Lowe 3 1 2
D. Dizer 2 1 1 1
K. Johnson 2 1 1
N. Tafisi 2 1 1 0.5
C. Terrill 2 1 1
H. Green 2 0 2
J. Wilson 1 1 0
B. Mebane 1 0 1
D. Tapp 1 0 1
D. Lewis 1 0 1 1
B. Atkins 1
L. Jackson 1

Quite a time out at Qwest Field, where cold temperatures gave way to sunny skies so that an estimated 10,000 or so football fans could get their first look at the Seahawks.

Mike Holmgren did not play a lot of the established players so that he could give full evaluation to some of the younger guys. A list of those injured included Wesly Mallard, Will Herring, Chris Spencer, Courtney Taylor, Marcus Tubbs, Chris Gray, Deion Branch, Larry Tripplett, Red Bryant, Patrick Kerney, Jeb Putzier and Ryan Plackemeier. On top of that, many of the starters, including Lofa Tatupu, did not participate, with Matt Hasselbeck only playing a few downs at the start before turning it over to Seneca Wallace and Charlie Frye.

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A few things to get you into the mood for this morning's scrimmage at Qwest Field.

Seattle Seahawks

Frank Hughes advances today’s scrimmage here, which should give players like Jordan Kent and Justin Forsett their first opportunity to show they belong on the team’s 53-man roster.

Scott Johnson of the Everett Herald also discusses the receiver battle in this story.

Some news and notes from Gregg Bell of the Associated Press, including info on Red Bryant’s knee injury and Julius Jones looking forward to playing at Qwest Field this morning.

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Larry Tripplett is out with a knee injury.

Chris Cooper is out with a leg injury.

There were no specifics on either injury. They are hopeful both are back within a week. Neither will play in tomorrow's scrimage.

We met with the officials at 1:30, and they went over some of the rules changes for the upcoming season. The most prominent is the force-out rule, and if a player does not get his feet down and is forced out of bounds it is now an incomplete pass. The caveat to that is if he is clearly going to come down but a player carries him out. The force-out happens far less often than you would guess, the referee who sat with us, Pete Morelli, saying about 14 times last season.

Other rules changes:

* There are no 5-yard facemasks any more. Only 15-yard intentional facemask penalties.

* A direct snap from center to QB that is not touched is now a live ball. It used to be dead if it was not touched.

* All muffed handoffs are now live balls.

* An offensive player (Marion Barber) can no longer grab a defensive player's facemask or it is a 15-yard penalty.

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This was an interesting practice, which ended with a two-minute drill in which both the first team and second team offenses scored game-winning touchdowns. Both offenses were bailed out by nice catches by their tight ends right up the middle of the field, John Carlson for the first team and Joe Newton for the second team.

The first team was facing a third and 5 when Matt Hasselbeck made a perfect pass over Carlson shoulder for the first down. Three plays later, Hasselbeck found Leonard Weaver on the left side for an eight-yard TD.

The second team seemed to be stymied, facing a fourth and 9 after Mansfield Wrotto failed to snap the ball for an illegal procedure penalty. (It was his third snapping miscue of the day.) But Seneca Wallace found Newton sprinting down the middle of the field for a first down. One play later, Wallace hit Joel Filani in the back of the end zone for a touchdown.

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I have to head out to practice, but defensive tackle Red Bryant needs to have arthroscopic surgery to repair the knee injury that we wrote about yesterday. He will miss the rest of training camp. This now makes things more interesting for Chris Cooper and Larry Tripplett, who should get more reps with Bryant out. I'll get more details at practice.

We take a spin around the NFC West this morning, starting, of course, with the Seahawks.

Seattle Seahawks

Jason Cole of Yahoo Sports checks in with the Seahawks, focusing on the relationship between quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and his receivers.

Wondering how some of the Seahawks rank as fantasy drafts loom? Check this link.

The Everett Herald’s Scott Johnson has a profile on fullback Leonard Weaver, who seems to have cemented himself as the starter.

Gregg Bell of the Associated Press has a similar story on Weaver.

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Former Seahawks defensive back Ken Lucas got into a scrape this morning with receiver Steve Smith and it sounds like he got pummeled. Here is the link.