Super Bowl LX: Early DVOA Analysis

Emerson Raymont

Published: January 27, 2026 4:11 PM ET

As the Super Bowl LX approaches, an early analysis emphasizes the importance of DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average) ratings in understanding team performances. The Seattle Seahawks have displayed remarkable statistics, firmly placing them among the elite teams in history, alongside the 1991 Redskins, 1985 Bears, 2007 Patriots, and 1989 49ers. Notably, they are currently tied with the 1996 Packers in overall DVOA rankings.

Seattle Seahawks: A Historic Team

The Seahawks’ DVOA performance is even more impressive when considering their weighted DVOA, which accounts for playoff games and recent performances. Currently, the New England Patriots sit as the second-best team in these weighted ratings, demonstrating a significant climb from their ninth-place finish in the regular season.

Key DVOA Insights and Stats

The Patriots have the largest gap between total DVOA and weighted DVOA among playoff teams.
In their last five games, the Patriots have showcased their strongest defensive performances of the season.
During the regular season, the Patriots blitzed 27.4% of the time, ranking 19th. However, in the postseason, this figure increased to 41.4%.
Sam Darnold, the Seahawks quarterback, showed vulnerability against blitzes, highlighting the effectiveness of the Patriots’ strategy.

The Matchup: Seahawks vs. Patriots

Both teams have their unique strengths, particularly on first downs. The Seahawks finished fourth in DVOA on passing efficiency during these plays, while the Patriots ranked 29th. Since Week 10, including playoffs, Patriots’ defensive DVOA against first-down passes has improved significantly, now surpassing that of the Seahawks.

Offensive Performances

Both quarterbacks, Drake Maye and Sam Darnold, excelled on deep passes, ranking second and third, respectively. However, the Seahawks’ defense has been particularly effective against quick throws, allowing a negative DVOA only to this type of pass.

Defensive Weaknesses

The Patriots struggled against No. 1 receivers during the season, ranking 31st in DVOA.
During the regular season, their DVOA against such receivers worsened in the second half.
The Seahawks rank second in DVOA against scrambling quarterbacks, a potential concern for Darnold.

Special Teams and Situational Play

In special teams, the Seahawks hold a distinct advantage, particularly in kickoff coverage and returns, contrasting with the Patriots’ underwhelming performance. Notably, the Seahawks converted 70% of their short-yardage runs, while the Patriots struggled significantly in this area.

As we await the official Super Bowl LX preview, one thing is clear: both teams will have to exploit their strengths while addressing significant weaknesses to seize the championship. Fans can stay informed on the latest statistics and analyses by following Filmogaz.com.