The 2014 and 2015 seasons have seen the Seahawks descend somewhat from those loftier heights. While they are in the mix of very good teams, they are not, however, the same freak-show outfit they were a couple of years ago.
The main reason for the drop can be traced to a somewhat weakened pass defence (from a peak of about 60% above average to around 20%) by mid-season in 2014. Starting a few weeks later, the Russell Wilson lead passing attack fell notably as well, and by late 2014 was approaching a -20% (or 20% under average) pass rating.
Since the reset in mid 2014, the story has been one of slow steady improvement in offence performance but with that being offset with further leveling in defence.
Going into the 2016 season, the Seahawks are an above average team in all these key facets of the game, which makes them a formidable opponent.
Look this year to see if the passing offence can continue some of it’s later 2015 season momentum. Also to see whether the defence can continue to perform at an above-average level and not slide further into the zone of mediocrity.