Max Unger Talks Playoffs on BFT

January 17, 2013, 9:03 pm

Max Unger joined the BFT on Thursday to talk about the Seahawks season and Chip Kelly leaving the University of Oregon to become the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Down 21-0 at one point, the Seattle Seahawks nearly completed the comeback against the Atlanta Falcons in the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs last Sunday, leading 28-27 in the fourth quarter before the Falcons kicked the game-winning field goal with 13 seconds left. Center Max Unger said Thursday that he’s been telling people it was a bad end to an otherwise good season. He went on to say that the momentum the team built up in the second half of the season and the postseason push the team manifested laid the groundwork for higher expectations for next season.

A comeback in Atlanta would have been the Seahawks’ second in as many weeks, as Seattle was down 14-0 early on the road to the Washington Redskins in the Wild Card round before ultimately winning 24-14. When asked about the general mindset of the huddle when the team was trailing, Unger commented on how the confidence of his teammates never wavered.

“When you get into that huddle and you’re down fourteen points on the road in a playoff game, and you can look around and everyone knows you’re going to win the game, it’s pretty cool,” said Unger.

As the conversation turned to rookie quarterback Russell Wilson, Unger noted Wilson’s unchanging demeanor on the field, even as the season progressed and the coaching staff continued to increase his role and responsibilities.

“He’s a stone cold dude,” said Unger. “And he had a hell of a year.”

Even though he only played under Chip Kelly when Kelly was the Ducks’ offensive coordinator, Unger still recognized Chip Kelly’s ability to command the attention of his players – a trait he says Kelly shares with Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll.

“When he talks, people listen,” said Unger. “He can command a group of football players.”

When asked about being named an All-Pro, Unger stated he never imagined himself earning the prestigious title. He elaborated that he saw the award as a credit to the entire offensive line, whose play allowed for excellent statistical performances from both Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch and quarterback Russell Wilson.

Unger will play in the Pro Bowl on Sunday, January 27th; in Honolulu, Hawaii.

To listen to the entire interview, click below:

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