What Happened
On August 7, 2025, the Seattle Seahawks hosted the Las Vegas Raiders in a preseason matchup at Lumen Field, marking a significant event for both teams and their fanbases. The game was particularly notable due to the return of former Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, who had left the organization in January 2024 and was now leading the Raiders. This occasion drew a large crowd of enthusiastic Seahawks fans, eager to welcome back a beloved figure in Carroll, despite his new role as an opponent.
The atmosphere in Seattle was electric, with fans gathering in Pioneer Square prior to the game to celebrate Carroll’s return. Many expressed mixed feelings about seeing him on the opposing sideline, reflecting a deep connection to his legacy in Seattle, where he led the Seahawks to multiple division championships and a Super Bowl victory. The event was not only significant for football fans but also for local businesses, which reported increased patronage due to the influx of visitors for the game.
Key Details
- Date of the Game: August 7, 2025
- Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
- Teams: Seattle Seahawks vs. Las Vegas Raiders
- Key Figures:
- Pete Carroll, former Seahawks head coach, now head coach of the Raiders
- Geno Smith, former Seahawks quarterback, now with the Raiders
- Attendance: The game attracted a large crowd, contributing to a bustling atmosphere in Pioneer Square, with local businesses experiencing significant sales increases.
- Historical Context: Carroll is a well-respected figure in Seattle, having led the Seahawks to numerous successes during his tenure from 2010 to 2023.
Multiple Perspectives
The return of Pete Carroll elicited a range of emotions among fans. Many Seahawks supporters expressed excitement and nostalgia, recalling the successful seasons under his leadership. One fan noted, “I’m kind of sad he’s on the other team now, but I’m glad he’s back,” highlighting the affection many still hold for Carroll despite his new affiliation.
Conversely, some fans felt conflicted about his presence on the opposing sideline. The sentiment was captured by a fan who stated, “I hate seeing him on the other team, but I’m excited to see him on the field.” This duality reflects the complexity of fan loyalty, where admiration for a former coach can coexist with the competitive spirit of the game.
Local business owners also weighed in, with some noting that Seahawks home games significantly boost their sales. The Alliance for Pioneer Square reported that Seahawks games can bring in over 60,000 attendees, demonstrating the economic impact of such events on the community.
Context & Background
Pete Carroll’s tenure with the Seahawks was marked by notable achievements, including two NFC Championships and a Super Bowl victory in 2014. His charismatic leadership and ability to connect with players and fans alike solidified his status as a beloved figure in Seattle sports history. His departure in January 2024 was a significant moment for the franchise, leading to a period of transition as the team sought to establish a new identity.
The matchup against the Raiders was not only a chance for fans to reconnect with Carroll but also an opportunity to assess the Seahawks’ direction under current head coach Mike Macdonald. The team is entering its second year with Macdonald at the helm, and fans are hopeful about new acquisitions, including quarterback Sam Darnold and wide receiver Cooper Kupp.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While the game provided a platform for nostalgia and celebration, it also raised questions about the future trajectories of both teams. The effectiveness of the Seahawks’ new strategies under Macdonald remains to be seen, as does the impact of Carroll’s leadership on the Raiders. Additionally, the long-term implications of player movements, such as Geno Smith’s transition from Seattle to Las Vegas, are still unfolding.
As the preseason progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to evaluate how both teams adapt and perform in the upcoming regular season. The outcomes of these early games may provide insight into the strengths and weaknesses of each franchise as they prepare for the competitive landscape of the NFL.
