Hawks Can’t Stop Browns in Second Half in 33-30 OT Loss

Posted by Matt Loede on November 4th, 2007 filed in Game Stories

All they needed was a few inches.  As has been the case all season, the Seahawks could get no push on the offensive line, and they were unable to get a fourth-and-inches in overtime Sunday in Cleveland, and with it that led to the teams 4th loss of the year, falling 33-30 in OT in Cleveland.  The team had a 3rd-and-8 and it looked as if QB Matt Hasselbeck ran for the first down, and was awarded it on the field.  But then after a review it was determined that he was inches short, and on the 4th down play Maurice Morris was stuffed for no gain.  Another failed shot for a team that really could have used a big road win.

The Hawks led the game 21-6 in the second quarter, and were doing a good job on Browns QB Derek Anderson.  But then in the second half Anderson led the Browns on four scoring drives and then the game-winner in OT.  Seattle’s defense went in the tank, while the offense, had moments of falling asleep.

Anderson ended the day with 364 yards on 29-of-48 passing and one interception.  The overtime drive was highlighted by a simple screen from Anderson to back Jamal Lewis, who rumbled 34 yards from the Browns 45 to the Seattle 21.  This came after the Seahawks went for it on 4th-and-inches and back Maurice Morris was stuffed for no gain.  The Browns needed just six plays to allow kicker Phil Dawson to hit a chip shot 25-yard field goal for the win.

This loss was a tough one for the Hawks, as their passing game seem to be hitting early, but then fell asleep for part of the second half before they were able to rally to drive and kick the game-tying field goal on the last play of regulation.  Matt Hasselbeck went 30-for-47 for 318 yards with two scores and an interception.  The Hawks running game compiled 105 yards on 28 carries, but it was not enough to hold off the Browns.

Cleveland’s passing game was paced by tight end Kellen Winslow, who caught a career-high 11 passes for 125 yards.  “It’s about how bad do you want it,” said Winslow. “I’m just so proud of us because we fought as a team. We deserve this.”  Braylon Edwards, who should have an invite to Hawaii before the year is over, caught 5 passes for 67 yards.  Lewis rushed for four touchdowns.

For the Seahawks, they are at home for the 49’ers on Monday night.