The Seattle Seahawks cornerback Tariq Woolen owes every teammate who helped secure Seattle’s trip to Super Bowl LX with a 31-27 win over the Los Angeles Rams a big hug.
If not for a clutch defensive effort and an offense that played superbly, Woolen could be waking up Monday as an infamous character.
With the Seahawks holding a 31-20 lead late in the third quarter, Woolen appeared to have forced a pivotal punt, breaking up a pass to Rams receiver Puka Nacua on third-and-12. However, after the play, the corner repeatedly jawed at L.A.’s sideline, drawing a taunting penalty and giving the Rams new life. On the next play, Nacua beat Woolen on a double-move for a 34-yard touchdown.
“Even though I made a great play, I wasn’t great for my team,” Woolen said, via the Associated Press. “And I’ve got to be better with that and celebrate with the team. The next play, they scored a touchdown, and that wouldn’t have happened if I had just celebrated with the team.”