Mon Jan 26 03:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Seahawks’ “Dark Side” Defense Draws Comparisons to the “Legion of Boom”

The Story:
NFL analyst Bucky Brooks compares the 2025 Seattle Seahawks’ “Dark Side” defense to the legendary “Legion of Boom” (LOB) defense of the early 2010s. Brooks acknowledges the current defense’s ferocity and talent, highlighting key players and the scheme’s effectiveness. While praising the “Dark Side’s” disruptiveness and playoff performance, Brooks ultimately concludes that they haven’t yet earned the right to be considered superior to the LOB, citing the LOB’s Super Bowl victory and consecutive defensive scoring titles.

Key Points:

  • The 2025 Seahawks defense, dubbed the “Dark Side,” is considered one of the saltiest in franchise history.
  • Key defensive players include Leonard Williams, Byron Murphy II, Ernest Jones IV, Drake Thomas, Devon Witherspoon, and Nick Emmanwori.
  • Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald utilizes a scheme that maximizes the strengths of the front seven and defensive backs, incorporating creative blitzes and simulated pressures.
  • The “Legion of Boom” featured stars like Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Earl Thomas.
  • Brooks argues that while the “Dark Side” may be superior in some categories, the “Legion of Boom’s” accomplishments, including a Super Bowl win and four consecutive defensive scoring titles, give them the edge.
  • The article also mentions the Broncos starting QB, Bo Nix, suffered a season-ending ankle injury and will be replaced by Jarrett Stidham in the AFC Championship Game.

Critical Analysis:
The constant comparisons between the “Dark Side” and the “Legion of Boom” are fueled by the Seahawks’ recent defensive dominance and their return to Super Bowl contention. The historical context shows the Seahawks rebuild was successful, and now the team is back at the NFC Championship. Fans and analysts are eager to crown the new Seahawks defense, but Brooks injects a dose of reality, emphasizing the importance of tangible achievements like Super Bowl wins.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 2025 Seahawks defense is a force to be reckoned with, but still has a ways to go before it can surpass the “Legion of Boom” in franchise history.
  • Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald’s scheme is effectively utilizing the team’s defensive talent.
  • Winning championships remains the ultimate measure of success in the NFL.
  • The current news cycle focuses on the Seahawks returning to glory after rebuilding, emphasizing defensive prowess and comparing the team to the former Super Bowl champions.
  • The comparisons between current and past eras highlight the cyclical nature of success and the importance of sustained dominance.

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