Super Bowl XLIX: Butler Interception (2015)
February 2015What Happened
With 20 seconds remaining and Seattle on the one-yard line, Pete Carroll called for a pass instead of handing to Marshawn Lynch. Undrafted rookie Malcolm Butler intercepted Russell Wilson, preserving New England's 28-24 victory and denying Seattle consecutive championships.
Outcome
The call was immediately labeled one of the worst in Super Bowl history. Carroll faced intense criticism; Wilson publicly defended the decision.
The loss marked the beginning of Seattle's decline from contender. Russell Wilson was traded to Denver in 2022. The franchise spent a decade rebuilding before returning to the Super Bowl.
Why It's Relevant Today
Super Bowl LX served as a redemption game, with Seattle finally defeating the Patriots 11 years after that devastating loss. The Seahawks' conservative, run-heavy approach with Walker suggested lessons learned from the 2015 play call.
