Miami defeated Seattle 20-11 on November 6 in a Week 10 regular season game. The victory marked Miami's first of the season, improving their record to 1-8, while extending Seattle's losing streak to nine games with an 0-9 record. Miami was coached by Jesse Graham, and Seattle was led by Russell Noguera.
The game began with a crucial turnover that set the tone. On the first play from scrimmage, Seattle's Calvin Patterson fumbled the ball, recovered by Miami's Mike McCarthy, who returned it 23 yards for a touchdown. Daniel Liller successfully converted the extra point, giving Miami an early 7-0 lead.
Seattle struggled to capitalize afterward. Steven Arnold missed a 55-yard field goal attempt in the first quarter, and the team failed to convert on crucial possessions. Miami's defense contributed significantly, forcing two interceptions and recovering three fumbles throughout the game.
Miami extended their lead in the second quarter with a rushing touchdown from Jesse Pearson, who ran in from two yards out. The extra point by Liller was again successful, pushing the score to 14-0. Shortly before halftime, Liller tightened Miami's grip on the game with a 51-yard field goal, increasing the margin to 17-0.
Seattle got on the board in the third quarter when Arnold converted a 46-yard field goal, but Miami responded with another field goal from Liller, maintaining a comfortable lead at 20-3. Miami quarterback Thomas Pugliese completed 26 of 40 passes for 175 yards, though he threw two interceptions. Miami's running game was efficient, with 31 carries for 162 yards but no touchdowns.
Seattle quarterback William Richardson completed 29 of 39 passes for 237 yards and threw one touchdown pass. The home team managed only nine rushing yards in 14 attempts, showing challenges in their ground attack.
Defensively, Miami's Ron Slater forced a pivotal fumble early in the game. Seattle's Mark Snow also forced a fumble but could not convert it into points. Miami's defense finished with two interceptions and one forced fumble, while Seattle recorded two sacks but failed to force turnovers.
Both teams struggled on third downs, as neither converted any attempts during the game. Miami committed four penalties for 20 yards, while Seattle had five penalties for 38 yards.
The win provides Miami with a needed boost as the season approaches the final stages, improving their points differential to 110 for and 191 against. Seattle maintained their position at the bottom of the division with 82 points scored and 308 points allowed this season.
Miami's special teams played a significant role, especially Daniel Liller, who made two field goals and converted both extra points. Miami's ball control and defensive pressure prevented Seattle from finding a consistent rhythm.
Miami will look to build on this momentum in upcoming games under coach Jesse Graham.
Miami Secures First Win of Season, Defeats Seattle 20-11
Michael Royal
· Miami Post
· 11/06/2078