Carroll says this year's Seahawks could be the best team he's ever coached

RENTON, Wash. – If you think you’re excited about this Seahawks season, you've got nothing on Pete Carroll.

The Seahawks’ coach said Monday this might be the best team he’s ever coached.

“There’s a chance,” Carroll said when a reporter posed the question during a press conference at the VMAC on Monday. “I’ve loved this team all along. I’ve seen it coming.”

And why not? After the Seahawks cruised past the New York Jets, 27-17, on Sunday, there’s no shortage of things to love.

They’re near the top of the NFL in virtually every important defensive category. Their offense has come alive with Russell Wilson, Jimmy Graham and Doug Baldwin delivering virtuoso performances recently. And of course the special teams have done their normal stellar job.

“I’m pretty fired up about our team right now,” Carroll said.

The Seahawks are hitting their bye week this weekend at an opportune time. Several starters played through relatively serious injuries on Sunday, including Wilson, offensive lineman Germain Ifedi, and receivers Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett.

Carroll said the extra week off will afford everybody an opportunity to rest up and return in top form.

"We’re excited about turning the corner and going into the second quarter (of the season)," he said. "We’re ready to do this."