The Book

an opposing team's scout sizes up the Seahawks

"ON PAPER, you look at the Seahawks I and say they're a lot worse than last year. But it's the second year in Mike Holmgren's system, and the players will be more comfortable. I'd expect them to be just as good as last year, or better....

Is Jon Kitna the guy who can take them to the next level? I doubt it. I think Mike was hoping he'd progress a little more last year....

Ricky Watters still runs as hard as anybody, but can he handle not being the Man and sharing time with Shaun Alexander?... Derrick Mayes is underrated; the guy runs good routes, finds a way to get open and makes great catches. Sean Dawkins isn't fast or physical, and he hates to block, but give him this: He'll go across the middle and make tough catches....

I'm a huge Shawn Springs fan. He's got a good head, he's tough, he has great speed and size, and he'll continue to get better. Reggie Tongue is a big hitter who will help them at safety....

Are they kidding with George Koonce at linebacker? His lack of space ability got him re-leased in Green Bay last year."