The Seahawks have had a tremendous season up to this point, with a 6-4 record entering their bye last week. With the struggling Raiders next on the schedule Sunday in Seattle with kickoff at 1:05 p.m. they’re in a prime position to battle the San Francisco 49ers for the NFC West title, and at least capture a Wild Card playoff spot. Seattle has shown their ability to effectively run the football, and make timely passes when needed. Although their defense is very young, they have been able to work through some early struggles and find some rhythm.
They’re coming off a tough loss in Germany against Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but there isn’t much to worry about from that loss. A crucial fumble in the red zone from Geno Smith was ultimately the deciding factor in what ended up being a fairly close game. The defense did enough to keep Seattle in the game, but the offense just couldn’t put much together in the run or passing game. That one is a flush, as Seattle is still showing they compete with every team they face.
Now with a week-long break, and some time to rest their bodies after a tough ten weeks in a row of football, Seattle is ready for the stretch run to take care of business and clinch a playoff berth next month. They do have the opportunity to take the division if they can leapfrog the 49ers, but it will be a tough challenge and it could come down to when they host them Thursday, Dec. 15. For now, the focus is on facing the Raiders for the first time in three years. Instead of Russell Wilson, the Seahawks have Geno Smith leading the way.
Las Vegas is not a pushover team, but they’ve been known to make many mistakes which have led to their poor 3-7 record. They are coming off an overtime win in Denver against the Broncos, in which their defense played very well. Something to keep an eye on. Expect the Seahawks to try and limit excellent pass rusher, Maxx Crosby, from doing damage in the backfield. Seattle will most likely establish the run game early to open up the rest of the field for Geno to sling it to his two great receivers in DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
Overall, with Seattle coming off the bye they should be more than prepared for this upcoming game with the 12th man behind them. The Raiders need a win to keep their season alive, so expect a physical and close game.
Northwest Sports Desk 