Patriots vs. Seahawks 2012: Seattle defense proved itself against top offense

The Seattle Seahawks hung around long enough and got key defensive stops to top the New England Patriots, 24-23 on Sunday at home.

While quarterback Russell Wilson and the Seahawks made big plays in the passing game, the defensive play in the second half was paramount in slowing down a high-powered Patriots offense. After allowing 17 points to New England in the first half, Seattle allowed only a pair of field goals after halftime and intercepted Tom Brady twice.

While statistics will show the Seahawks allowed a good deal of yardage, Field Gulls believes the end result was favorable:

The gameplan was 'bend-but-don't-break' against a very, very talented and strong offense and Seattle bent, but didn't break. Not only that, they left a lot of plays on the field, and there's a lot of room for improvements.

Wilson outplayed Brady, finishing with 293 passing yards and three touchdowns, as he picked up chunks of yards through the air. The Seattle receivers had three catches of at least 46 yards or more, including the final deep bomb from Wilson to Sidney Rice to put the Seahawks up for good with one minute, 18 seconds remaining in the game.

Seattle was also disciplined, committing only four penalties for 35 yards.

In a big NFC West contest, the Seahawks will look to take sole possession of first place in the division when they take on the San Fransisco 49ers on Thursday.