Ifedi return couldn’t come at a better time
By Dan Viens
Seahawks rookie guard Germain Ifedi appears to be on track to start his first game against the New York Jets this Sunday.
After the outstanding preseason he had, fans were understandably excited about first round draft pick Germain Ifedi. And after the way the offensive line as a whole has played in his absence, the prospect of his return this Sunday lends itself to optimism.
Ifedi practiced in full today for the first time since suffering a high ankle sprain in practice the Wednesday before the Seahawks first game. This followed a preseason in which he established himself not only as the no-doubt starting right guard, but as a potential star. Simply put, there were times in the preseason when he was physically dominant, sandwiched around the predictable rookie mistakes and missteps.
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The timing of his potential return couldn’t be better for Seattle. As Russell Wilson prepares to start at quarterback just a week after suffering a sprained knee, protecting him is more important than ever. A productive running game would go a long way to keeping Wilson clean, but that requires beef and strength up front. A lot of it. Because the Jets possess one of the more physically imposing defensive fronts in the NFL.
The trio of Sheldon Richardson, Muhammad Wilkerson and Leonard Williams is imposing. The aren’t going to beat you with quick-twitch explosiveness off the edge, but they are tough to move. Currently the Jets are 3rd in the league in rushing defense, allowing only 71.7 yards per game. Seattle is averaging 102 yards per game rushing, 15th in the NFL.
Many people seem to think Russell Wilson should sit this game out, rest his knee, and come back 100% healthy after the week #5 bye, but If the Seahawks can establish a consistent rushing attack Sunday, protect Wilson, and get a road win to move to 3-1….it could really set up a nice run in the 2nd quarter of the season.
Getting a healthy Germain Ifedi back this week against the Jets could go a long way towards making that happen.