Seahawks Emerge as Contenders in Wide-Open NFC After Bye Week
The Seattle Seahawks stand poised as formidable contenders in the wide-open NFC, following their Week 8 bye. With a record of 5-2, they currently occupy the fourth seed in the conference, showcasing impressive gameplay under first-year head coach Mike Macdonald.
Seahawks’ Current Standing and Performance
After a promising start, the Seahawks are focusing on maintaining their momentum. Their point differential of +57 ranks them third in the NFC, just behind the Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams. This is a notable improvement compared to two years prior, when they also started 5-2 but with a +30 point differential.
Playoff Chances
The Athletic’s playoff simulator gives the Seahawks an 84% chance of making the postseason and a 34% chance of winning the NFC West. They are in a tight race with the Rams, who lead the division with a 90% chance and 49% of winning the division.
Top Competitors
- Green Bay Packers: Currently leading the conference at 5-1-1.
- Philadelphia Eagles: Holding a 6-2 record; their defense has shown vulnerabilities.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Also at 6-2 but struggling with injuries.
- Detroit Lions and Los Angeles Rams: Each at 5-2, showing strong offensive and defensive stats.
Defensive Strength
The Seahawks’ defense has excelled, particularly in run defense, allowing the fewest rushing yards (402) and holding opponents to just two rushing touchdowns. They also rank at the top for various advanced metrics, including rush EPA and explosive rush rate.
Key Defensive Players
- Cornerback Josh Jobe: Emerging as a lockdown corner with the eighth-lowest passer rating among corners.
- Edge rusher Derick Hall and cornerback Devon Witherspoon: Expected to return in upcoming games, adding depth to the roster.
Offensive Considerations
On offense, the Seahawks rank 13th in points per drive, with quarterback Sam Darnold performing well. Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the league in receiving yards, illustrating the potential of Seattle’s passing game.
Areas for Improvement
Despite their success, the Seahawks face challenges in their run game and on third down conversion rates, which rank among the lowest in the league. Addressing these issues will be crucial as they aim to maintain their competitive edge.
Next Steps
The Seahawks are set to face the Washington Commanders on Sunday night. Coach Macdonald expresses enthusiasm about the team’s direction and potential for growth. With improvements in their run game and third-down performance, the Seahawks could solidify their status as serious contenders in the NFC.
