Seahawks Legend Marshawn Lynch Blasts Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell for “Disrespecting Seattle” by Starting an All-Rookie Lineup Ahead of Sunday’s Massive Showdown

Seattle, Washington – 11/29/2025

The atmosphere in Seattle is boiling ahead of the Week 13 showdown, but the story shaking the entire NFL isn’t coming from the Seahawks — it’s coming from the Minnesota Vikings. With J.J. McCarthy still stuck in concussion protocol, head coach Kevin O’Connell made the most controversial decision of the week: naming undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer the starter, alongside a lineup filled with rookies in key positions. And for a Seattle team currently viewed as the strongest in the NFL, that move felt impossible to ignore.

The Vikings brought Desmond Ridder back to the practice squad, moved John Wolford to the scout team, and placed their hopes on Brosmer — who has thrown just eight passes in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Seahawks boast a fierce defense under head coach Mike Macdonald and one of the toughest home environments in the league at Lumen Field. To many, Minnesota’s approach looks less like preparation and more like showing up with a test-run lineup to one of the most intimidating stadiums in football.

No one was more furious than Seahawks legend Marshawn Lynch — a figure who has always held 12th Man close to his heart. He didn’t hesitate to call out Kevin O’Connell directly, arguing that the Vikings were blatantly underestimating Seattle.

“This is not a place for experimenting. This is Seattle. This is the NFL. Starting an all-rookie lineup in a game this big? I see clear disrespect toward us. Decisions like that don’t just overlook your opponent — they overlook the competitive spirit of this league. And that’s something a team like the Seahawks will never let slide on a Sunday like this.”

In the press room, Mike Macdonald remained calm as ever. He emphasized that Seattle had prepared for every scenario, studying Brosmer’s preseason film as well as his college tape. But even that level of discipline couldn’t hide the reality: the Vikings are walking into Lumen Field with one of the least experienced lineups at the most dangerous point of the season.

Seattle doesn’t need any added motivation. Lumen Field is poised to become a cauldron, where the roar of the 12th Man has swallowed veteran quarterbacks — let alone a rookie making his first start. And if Lynch’s words reflect anything, it’s the shared sentiment across the city: if you step into Seattle, you’d better bring maximum respect.

Sunday’s showdown will reveal whether Kevin O’Connell’s decision was bold… or reckless enough to backfire.