Matt Hasselbeck didn’t hold back when analyzing what could be the key factor for the Seattle Seahawks’ defense heading into Super Bowl LX. If there’s one trait of the New England Patriots that could potentially expose Seattle’s weaknesses, it’s their quarterback’s ability to scramble. Hasselbeck, a former Seahawks quarterback and now a commentator with strong ties to Boston, sees this as the one aspect that could shift the game in New England’s favor.
Hasselbeck explained that Seattle’s defense has struggled most against quarterbacks who can extend plays with their legs. When a quarterback scrambles, it often transforms a seemingly solid defensive coverage into a back-breaking first down. And that’s exactly why he’s keeping a close eye on New England quarterback Drake Maye’s running ability as the Patriots prepare for the biggest game of the year.
Super Bowl LX will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, and with the stakes so high, Hasselbeck’s comments carry weight. Maye’s scrambling ability is a dangerous weapon, and Hasselbeck believes that if the quarterback uses his legs to make plays, it could be the key to unlocking a win for New England.
Maye’s mobility has been a talking point leading up to the game, especially considering the right shoulder issue he’s been dealing with. While Maye has expressed confidence in his health, stating he feels “great,” Hasselbeck knows that availability will be crucial. “Availability is the best ability,” he stated, warning that if Maye is hurt and unable to perform to his fullest, it could be detrimental to New England’s chances. In a Super Bowl, even the slightest injury could be the difference between victory and defeat.
Hasselbeck made it clear that one wrong hit could swing the momentum in Seattle’s favor, especially if Maye’s shoulder flares up during the game.
Beyond the physical aspect of Maye’s health, Hasselbeck noted that the quarterback has a tendency to get a little too adventurous when it comes to sliding during runs. While Maye’s toughness isn’t in question, Hasselbeck’s advice is for him to be smarter about protecting himself, especially with the title on the line. A player’s health is often the most significant factor in a playoff run, and with Maye’s shoulder already an issue, taking unnecessary risks could cost New England the game.
Hasselbeck also shared his perspective on how Seahawks fans should watch Maye’s early scrambles in the game. He explained that he’s less concerned with a quarterback’s body language and more focused on the line of scrimmage and how the protection holds up. When he looks at the game, he’s paying attention to whether the offensive line can provide Maye with enough time to throw, whether the run game is effective, and if the defense is respecting the potential for quarterback movement.
This is where Maye’s legs become a game-changer. If Seattle can get pressure on Maye early and force him into long third-down situations, they can keep him in the pocket and limit his scrambling ability. But if the Patriots’ offense stays on schedule and Maye is able to turn third-and-long situations into first downs with his legs, it will stress Seattle’s defense in ways they might not be prepared for. This is the kind of situation that can lead to penalties, missed assignments, or even a late hit that extends a drive and keeps the Seahawks defense on the field.
The Seahawks have a strong, disciplined defense, but Hasselbeck’s analysis highlights how Maye’s ability to escape the pocket and make plays could expose weaknesses even against the best defensive units. “Kryptonite” for Seattle isn’t necessarily a big play downfield. It’s the small, seemingly insignificant scramble that turns a third-and-7 into a fresh set of downs. These “hidden” yards can be the difference between a punt and a touchdown, and in a game as high-stakes as the Super Bowl, every yard counts.
From the Patriots’ perspective, this could be exactly what they need to execute a successful Super Bowl game plan. New England doesn’t need to turn the game into a high-scoring track meet. Instead, they can win by utilizing Maye’s mobility with a few early designed quarterback runs, exploiting Seattle’s defense with scrambles on third down, and creating extra gaps in the defense inside the red zone. If Maye’s legs are a factor in the red zone, it forces the defense to respect the threat of the quarterback as a dual threat, adding another layer of complexity to their job.
This type of strategy, built around quarterback movement and scrambles, is exactly the kind of plan that can thrive in a Super Bowl environment. Nerves and timing are often imperfect early in big games, and if New England can capitalize on broken plays or scramble opportunities, they can keep Seattle from getting comfortable in their defensive approach. It’s the kind of plan that forces the Seahawks to play more conservatively, hesitant to attack the quarterback for fear of leaving gaps open for scrambles.
In the end, Hasselbeck’s message is clear: while the Seahawks’ defense may be elite in many areas—coverage, pass rush, tackling—it can still be vulnerable to a quarterback who can break containment and make plays with his legs. Maye’s ability to scramble, when healthy, could provide New England with an edge in a Super Bowl that doesn’t require a perfect passing day. For Seahawks fans, the importance of Maye’s scrambling cannot be overstated. It’s the one variable that Hasselbeck continues to circle as the potential game-changer for the Patriots in Super Bowl LX.
If Maye can stay healthy and use his legs effectively, Seattle’s defense may find itself unable to contain the Patriots’ offensive attack.
