Seahawks Insider: Jimmy Graham on record-setting scoring binge

Yes, the Seahawks did indeed throw a pass on second-and-goal from the 1-yard line in the second half of Sunday’s game at San Francisco Santa Clara.

In fact, they ran a slant no less.

But while the situation was similar to a certain interception from a certain Super Bowl that we don’t like to mention here in Seattle, the result was quite different as tight end Jimmy Graham scored Seattle’s third touchdown of the game and his eighth TD in the past seven games.

Chancellor, Avril update | Wagner’s huge play | Seahawks rally | Recap

That matches the total number of touchdown passes he caught in his first 31 regular-season games as a Seahawk, and when it comes to finding that kind of scoring option for Russell Wilson near the end zone, it’s better late than never.

“We’re so much better now utilizing him as part of the offense,” coach Pete Carroll said after Sunday’s game, “taking what they’re giving us. He’s doing a great job coming through, but it’s really the chemistry between he and Russ has reached the level that makes them really on top of their game.”

The Seahawks’ lack of a running game has turned Graham into their putter.

Graham’s eight touchdown catches is the most ever by a Seahawks tight end in one season, breaking the previous mark of seven, which was set by John Carlson in 2009. Graham’s 16 touchdown catches is the most by any Seahawk tight end, surpassing the mark set by Jerramy Stevens, who did manage a pretty terrific 2005 season in the midst of a lengthy criminal career.

But now that Seattle has established that it can exploit Graham in the red zone, the Seahawks will have to adapt to what opponents start doing to combat that threat.

“They’ll be more creative,” Carroll said of opposing defenses. “His numbers are up there pretty good. They are going to do some more stuff for him I would think.”

Follow @dannyoneil