Originally published Friday, December 5, 2008 at 1:50 PM

Seahawks' Matt Hasselbeck is doubtful for Sunday

Quarterback didn't practice Friday, is not expected to play Sunday against New England. If Hasselbeck doesn't play, Seneca Wallace will start.

By Danny O'Neil

Seattle Times staff reporter

RENTON — Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck did not practice Friday and is not expected to play Sunday against New England because of soreness in his back.

Hasselbeck will be listed by the Seahawks as doubtful, which translates to a 25-percent chance that he will play, according to the NFL guidelines for injury reports.

Hasselbeck missed five games earlier this season because of a nerve condition in his back in which a bulging disk was pressing on a nerve, causing deadness in his leg.

Coach Mike Holmgren said the injury is the residual effect of the hits he absorbed against Dallas when the Cowboys sacked him seven times. Hasselbeck was asked if Hasselbeck is having the same problems as earlier this season with regard to his back.

"Not as severe," Holmgren said. "But some of the symptoms are the same, yes."

If Hasselbeck is unable to play, Seneca Wallace will start. Wallace took all the first-team snaps in practice Friday. Holmgren said a decision on Hasselbeck's availability will be made Sunday.

Left tackle Walter Jones and linebacker Leroy Hill also missed practice. The decision on whether they will be able to play will be made Sunday.

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Comments

what a surprise...not! Time to punt. Posted on December 5, 2008 at 2:16 PM by MoonBattery. Jump to comment

Too many whiskers on this team........drastic change needed for a youth movement. Mike, get on the Harley and get down here to Az, great weather,... Posted on December 5, 2008 at 2:19 PM by Heimster. Jump to comment

Can Matt recover for next year? I believe he's on the downslope of his career. It tough to recover from back injuries in the NFL, even... Posted on December 5, 2008 at 2:12 PM by backtorealty. Jump to comment

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