One of the game’s pivotal plays came from Uchenna Nwosu, whose 46-yard interception return for a touchdown put Seattle up 29-7 and effectively sealed the victory. The play was initially ruled a fumble, but after review it was confirmed the ball never hit the ground, changing the call to an interception.
CBS Sports’ Patrick Peterson lauded the Seahawks’ defense after the trophy presentation, saying New England couldn’t solve Seattle’s front and that Maye never looked settled. “It looked like the Seattle defensive line was too much for the offensive linemen that were protecting him for the most part, but Drake never seemed comfortable the entire game,” Peterson noted, adding that pressure often drives young quarterbacks off their progression.
Maye completed 27 of 43 passes for 295 yards, but the Patriots were stymied by Seattle’s stout run defense, finishing with just 79 rushing yards. Peterson pointed out that Maye never had time or space to operate, and Seattle’s relentless pass rush prevented receivers from creating separation.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba joined the praise for Seattle’s defense on NFL Network, emphasizing the group’s readiness and its pivotal role in the win. “They’ve been ready. It starts with defense, and defense wins championships,” he said, underscoring the unit’s impact in erasing the early-game momentum.
Offensively, Kenneth Walker III led the way with 135 rushing yards on 27 carries (5.0 per attempt), providing the engine Seattle needed. Quarterback Sam Darnold added 202 passing yards on 19 of 38 attempts with one touchdown, as the Seahawks’ offense finally found its footing in the second half behind a dominant defensive effort.
Ultimately, Seattle’s defense established the tone and carried the victory, complementing a late offensive surge to secure the championship. The performance reinforced the Seahawks’ defensive identity as the defining story of Super Bowl LX.
