I would say our key to success is going to be controlling the game. Same as it's been ever since we committed to running the ball midway through 2011. And the one aspect toward that aim that we aren't absolutely excellent at, is converting 3rd downs.
Seattle is explosive. We can say we're tied for 11th in 20+ yard passes. But I'd guess we're tops by miles in terms of 20 yd completions per attempt. Tied in the top third while passing for the least amount of yards total. That's not a dysfunctional passing game.
We know the efficiency. And we all know it wasn't our lack of passing attack that cost us back to back.
To me, it's all about 3rd down conversions. We can do nothing to improve anything offensively, and know that if we're given a third down conversion, our scoring rate on that particular drive doubles. If we convert 2 more third downs per game, that will on average result in 8 more plays, 40 yards in offense and a shade over 6 more points each game we do that.
Seattle was awesome at converting third and short. Converting third and medium/long we were below average. Graham should help with that. So should Lockett.
In fact, I'd put out there that Graham's biggest contribution won't be red zone catches at all. It'll be the combined easing/lessening of third down struggles in between the 20s. His effect even in the early downs should improve our offense both rushing and passing. Leading to fewer 3rd and long situations. And his ability to convert 3rd and medium (4-6 yards) should improve our substandard competency in that range.
This team has been about controlling the game. Defensively. Running the ball. That's how we win. Converting 3rd down better aligns with that philosophy and plays to our strengths. While TOP is not considered by us to be a major indicator of success, controlling possession, even if it means fewer plays for us AND our opponent is.
We aren't a shoot out kind of team. If we're in a shoot out scenario, then we're not doing what we are supposed to do. We committed over 60% of our team salary structure on the defensive side. They have zero to do with our ability to play shoot out contests. Other than to prevent them or limit them.
We control games that are most often close. Talent, draft stock and cap spend resides heavily on the defensive side.
Our keys to success are the same they've ever been. Control the game and suffocate the opponent's ability to score. We could easily go to and win a second title without having thrown for 300 yards in any game in 2016. I'd venture to guess that our win percentage against teams that do throw 300 on us is still way above .500.