Seattle Seahawks: Opponent Preview – Arizona Part 1
Chris Phillips
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The Seattle Seahawks find themselves in a similar situation to last week, as to who will be starting under center for their opponent. Here’s how the Seahawks can avoid the same result as last week as well.
The Seattle Seahawks are home to battle division opponent and leader, Arizona. This will not be an easy game for Seattle to win. Consequently, it’s a game that they absolutely HAVE to win! If they want to have any chance at making the playoffs they need to win this game.
If the Seahawks lose, they can kiss the playoffs goodbye. Some may not like to hear that but it’s the truth. Seattle would be 1-3 in the division. With three more division games to go and two of them on the road. So, Russell Wilson and company have their work cut out for them. Arizona comes in allowing 206.4 yards passing, just behind the L.A. Chargers and Green Bay. Let’s hope Wilson’s finger is feeling better, and that the offensive game plan calls for some easier throws for him to make.
That plan also should include Wilson not trying to force the deep ball either. Instead, taking the shorter throw and keeping the offense moving. Calling Alex Collins’ number more in the ground game will also be a good idea. Subsequently, Arizona ranks 19th against the run, allowing on average 116.6 yards per game. Again, this sounds awfully similar to last week’s opponent preview. It’s just the way the cookie crumbles.
On the other side of the ball. Bobby Wagner and the defense have their work cut out for them. Arizona ranks eighth in rushing yards per game, with 125.8 yards per game. This is a bit shocking when you consider their head coach is known for the Air Raid passing attack. Speaking of their passing game, Arizona ranks 12th in the NFL with a 249.7 yards per game average.
Bobby Wagner begins press conference talking about The Alchemist, a book he says helped him past his injury in 2014. pic.twitter.com/J6Y22eTU1J
— Bob Condotta (@bcondotta) November 17, 2021
Most of those gaudy offensive numbers came when Kyler Murray was starting. His backup, Colt McCoy, was able to match that kind of production in one of the two games he’s started. Murray is trending toward starting this week. However, Arizona’s bye week comes right after this game; so, there is speculation that they may hold Murray out for one more game. If they do, then a compromised McCoy (dealing with a pec injury) will face off against an injured Wilson.
Bottom Line
Again, this sounds game is awfully similar to last week. Both teams’ starting quarterbacks play at less than 100 percent. Consequently, I wouldn’t be expecting a shoot-out at Lumen Field on Sunday even though Arizona ranks fifth in points allowed, at 18.9 per game.
Some predictions to take to the bank. D.K. Metcalf doesn’t get ejected. Tyler Lockett goes for over 70 yards receiving and one score. Collins rushes for over 105 yards. Finally, the Seattle Seahawks win 20-17 in yet another tight ball game.
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The #Panthers are 14-0 over the #Cardinals, that was quick.
Many people believe the #Cardinals are the best team in the league.https://t.co/YbabgPKGcT
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 14, 2021
What do you think about this week’s Seattle Seahawks game against Arizona? Let us know in the comments section below or on social media.