Seahawks #1

ESPN is now the second major sports media organization (FoxSports.com/Football Outsiders NFL Power Rankings) to give the Seahawks the top spot in a preseason poll. The Seahawks open at No. 1 in the preseason Power Rankings, which are "determined by a poll of ESPN.com's NFL staff -- writers John Clayton, Len Pasquarelli, Michael Smith, Scouts Inc. insiders Jeremy Green and Keith Kidd and ESPN.com NFL editors Peter Lawrence-Riddell and James C. Black." Three of the seven had the Seahawks in the top spot, while three had the Steelers and one picked the Colts. It is nice to get some respect, but all of it really means nothing if the Seahawks do not back it up on the field. Considering the success we had last, it is almost a little disheartening to have our draft graded well and the preseason respect in the rankings. Remember, these are the same idiots that underestimated the Seahawks last year and criticized the pick of Lofa Tatupu.

In the Len Pasquarelli article, he points out that, on average, less than half the playoff teams make it back the following season.

"Eight of the franchises that qualified for the playoffs in 2002 didn't return to the postseason in 2003. From 2003 to 2004, the attrition rate was six teams, and last season it was seven."

Here are the pre-season power rankings and final standings for the past 2 seasons:
2005:Preseason Power Rankings and Final Standings
2004:Preseason Power Rankings and Final Standings

In the Preseason Power Rankings last season, the Seahawks were #13 and the comment was, "The Seahawks might not have wanted him back, but they are a better team with Shaun Alexander running the ball."

Injuries obviously play a role, but some other highlights:
2. Eagles, 7. Ravens, 9. Jets, 15. Broncos, 25. Giants, 26. Bears, 27. Buccaneers, and 29. Redskins. Nice job picking the NFC.