NFL Sunday Preview: Seattle Seahawks at Los Angeles Rams
This should be one of the better games this week what with Seattle QB Russell Wilson putting up MVP-like numbers and the Rams’ defensive front headed by former Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald looking to prove something after their loss two weeks ago to the Miami Dolphins. The Rams have had a bye week to prepare for what should be one of their most difficult matchups this season.
Luckily for Russell Wilson, he’s one of the league’s best mobile quarterbacks, but he’s already had at least two questionable losses this season versus the Arizona Cardinals (3 interceptions) and the Buffalo Bills (two interceptions), both of which are comparable opponents to the Rams in terms of general difficulty. The key to the game for the Rams will be forcing those interceptions. If Wilson throws more than one it should be game over.
The Seahawks’ defense is also absolutely atrocious this year, so a win will rest on Wilson’s shoulders. The ‘Hawks are allowing 30 points per game and have given up more total and passing yardage than any team in NFL history through the first eight weeks. Jared Goff may not be Russell Wilson, but he generally performs well when he has a good pocket, something that Seattle probably won’t be able to penetrate considering their incredibly mediocre pass rush.
However, the Seahawks should still have upside in this game because of their high-powered offense. One huge question mark is running back Chris Carson, who hasn’t practiced at all this week due to a foot injury and is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game. Backup Carlos Hyde was also listed as questionable on the injury report with a hamstring injury. If neither RB plays, that could be the difference between a decisive win and a catastrophic loss for Seattle, but don’t count out University of Miami alumni Travis Homer and Deejay Dallas, who are both powerful backs looking to move up the depth chart.
At the end of the day, however, the Seahawks are a passing offense, which is lucky for them considering Los Angeles’ powerful run defense. Look for Russell Wilson to put up big numbers en route to a close victory over the Rams, who will have little answer for the league’s top MVP candidate. But make sure to check that injury report before you place your bets. The potential loss of Seattle’s two top RBs will change the tide in favor of the Rams.
Prediction: Seahawks 31 – 27 Rams
-- by Kyle King
