Seattle: A "must" win?

[MHS831]

Fox wasn't fired - his contract was allowed to expire. And there is a difference between a sense of urgency and a 'must-win'. The team absolutely needs to play with urgency and intent, but implying that a loss on Sunday ruins the entire season is melodramatic.

 

This point is not melodramatic if you understand the impact on the fan base-that is explained in the post; it was my response to the question--understand it for what it is.  However, there are deeper issues here.  I said this was as close to a must win as any first game I have seen.  My reasons basically imply that the impact of a loss could be extremely counterproductive from several perspectives.  If you take this literally, congrats-you are right.  But figuratively, in terms of morale, momentum, and motivation, this game is huge and could have far reaching implications. 

[KSpan]

This point is not melodramatic if you understand the impact on the fan base-that is explained in the post; it was my response to the question--understand it for what it is. However, there are deeper issues here. I said this was as close to a must win as any first game I have seen. My reasons basically imply that the impact of a loss could be extremely counterproductive from several perspectives. If you take this literally, congrats-you are right. But figuratively, in terms of morale, momentum, and motivation, this game is huge and could have far reaching implications.

I don't disagree that it would be a great springboard, but whether fans or players are being melodramatic is irrelevant. The bottom line is that there are 15 more games after this one, and a loss tomorrow is not the end of the world. However, that is no excuse to let off the gas or to not attack, attack, and attack some more.

[Cape Fear Cat]

The question is incomplete.

 

Is the game tomorrow a "must win" to what end?

 

Is it a must win in terms of a winning season or playoff birth? Certainly not. If it were, Baltimore would be out of the hunt now.

 

Is it a must win to instill confidence in the minds and hearts of the fans who are hoping for not the same old story? Absolutely.

 

I agree. I would also point out that a win in the opener goes a long way to set the tone for the rest of the schedule. A fast start that leaves us well positioned at the bye in Week 4 will build momentum and allow the team to fine tune things before we get into the heart of NFCS play in the second half. To open with a win against a consensus Super Bowl contender would prove to doubters on the team and elsewhere that this squad has what it takes to be contenders int heir own right.

[KSpan]

The question is incomplete.

Is the game tomorrow a "must win" to what end?

Is it a must win in terms of a winning season or playoff birth? Certainly not. If it were, Baltimore would be out of the hunt now.

Is it a must win to instill confidence in the minds and hearts of the fans who are hoping for not the same old story? Absolutely.

A win is the absolute best case scenario, but a loss to a talented Seattle team where the players and coaches show desire and smart gameplanning would not be entirely indicative of 'the same old story.' I absolutely want a win and think it would be an incredible start, but my enthusiasm won't unconditionally wilt if they lose because there could still be a lot of positives.

Now, a loss to both Seattle and Buffalo on the other hand...

[*FreeFua*]

Is it a must win to instill confidence in the minds and hearts of the fans who are hoping for not the same old story? Absolutely.

IMO This goes for the players as well. Cam has experienced two losing seasons. I believe they need that extra confidence that a win would give them, if they are going to have a winning record this year. This game is just as important for the players as it is for the fans.

[CarolinaNCSU]

What Zod says.

 

The win for the team's psyche may be the most important thing. A loss and it could be, oh here we go again. A win, and confidence/excitement could go through the roof and jump-start a special season.

[philp]

Knowing how slow we start off, I'm going to say yes. This team seams to find it hard to dig out of holes. Or should I say coach?

[Disinfranchised]

Now, it is a must win. All games are must wins from this perspective in time.

[nosuchthingasapanther]

it is a must win in that the panthers have consistently shown they cannot bounce back from slow starts.

 

a loss tomorrow would be deflating to the fans...and despite what people believe, to the players and the organization.

 

i want to see another 2008 season...a season opening win is what propelled the team to a 12-4 record. it gave them that "swag" that hasn't been seen since.

 

 

[Razeyfingers]

The first time I ever heard the term "must win" was well after I had played on many different teams in many various sports. The concept of that didnt make sense to me then and it still doesnt now. You "must win" when you must win.

 

You're always bringing your A game, whats wrong with you if youre not.

 

edit: hmm that would make this mostly a "must win" thing for fans then. For the players I dont think they give a fug. They deal one way or another.

[2jakefansinva]

A win would keep the media off our ass and let our QB, OC and HC get a little breathing room.

with a little pressure removed..........Monday would be a great day.

[Mr. Scot]

Realistically, Week One is never a 'must win'.

You coach to win every game, but losing the first one doesn't mean you're doomed.

[teeray]

I get the point, but no. The first game is not a must win. Actually I would contend that no matter what happens tomorrow, no matter is we win or lose against the Hawks, @Buffalo is actually the more important game.

With how tough our schedule is we have to win the games we should win and then win enough of the coin flip and underdog games to get in the playoffs.

If we lose to Buffalo it puts more pressure on us to win more games against better opponents.

Because of that I would say next weeks game regardless of what happens tomorrow is actually a more important game.

But winning the first game and a home game is always a good start

[Khaki Lackey]

We've won 15 of our last 42 games. Putting 'must win' pressure on this team seems unnecessary. Yes, there should be urgency. This team does not need a slow start, and yes, it would make things better for the coaches, players, and fans, but we are playing a team that is projected by many to win the NFC. If it was an easier opponent, a game we should win, then I would say yeah, go ahead and call it a must win.