by Eric Yang
Staff Writer

For Shaun Alexander, the starting running back of the Seattle Seahawks, getting worn-out for the second straight season is opening the door for secondary running back Maurice Morris.

Alexander, now in his eighth season in the National Football League (NFL), is getting old at age 31. He is much slower this year, and injuries to his wrist and knee are taking a toll on his body. His vision of the gridiron (football field) is declining and hampers his teammates’ abilities to have any sort of timing whatsoever.

It’s getting to the point where most media and fans believe the best is behind him. They’re now looking to Morris for hopes of a memorable victory.

With bad offensive line play this season, the Hawks have changed their philosophy for the offensive line. This season is an excellent time for the pass-happy offense and Morris to show what he’s got for the field.

Coach Mike Holmgren stated that the Hawks will open up the offense with an aerial attack on the gridiron. Morris is better than Alexander because he hits the hole instead of dancing around, looking for the endzone. With his agility and ability, he is bound to make the offense attack flourish like never before.

This shift from Alexander to Morris may sound familiar to those who’ve been in Seattle for a while. There was a time when faithful Seahawks fans cheered for Ricky Watters, a great player in his prime. But then Alexander was drafted in 2001 out of Alabama and they both split duty.

After a year, it seemed like Alexander was the better guy. The front office believed it and cut Watters.

Then in 2005, Alexander won the NFL Most Valuable Player award. award and led the team to the Super Bowl, marking his prime.

Now we fast forward to 2007 where the Seahawks are still leading the division with the most talent. However, believe it or not, the window of opportunity is closing, and it’s now or never for a victory. Alexander is now in Watters’ position.

At this time, Morris is better suited to work with Holmgren’s tactics with rhythm and timing as Alexander winds down.