How the Seahawks can still win the West

As hard as the Jaguars loss was, the Seahawks are on the verge of potentially winning of the division. With the Rams losing to the Eagles, a Seattle win puts them in sole possession of first place. Therefore, with three games left, Seahawks still control their fate.

Seahawks offensive line versus Rams front seven

There quite a few things different from the first meeting, especially the personnel and performance of the Seahawks offensive line. The acquisition of left tackle Duane Brown is one of the reasons why quarterback Russell Wilson is in consideration for league MVP. Before Brown, Wilson never seemed comfortable while in the pocket, due to the unpredictable play on his blind side.

On Sunday, the Rams have one of the best defensive players in the NFL, tackle Aaron Donald. In the first meeting, the focus was inside for protecting Seattle’s franchise quarterback. Consequently, it left the tackles one on one with the edge pass-rushers. For this reason, Russell Wilson may look far more comfortable against L.A. than he has in earlier meetings due to Duane Brown relieving the left side.

Seahawks defense versus the Rams skill players

If the magnitude of middle linebacker Bobby Wagner was not clear before he injured his hamstring, the impact showed when he exited the game. The following three plays for Jacksonville were all touchdowns.

Therefore, on Sunday, if Seattle is without Wagner and KJ Wright, their primary focus needs to be applying pressure on Rams quarterback Jared Goff and stopping the run. A talented front did not record a sack against Blake Bortles. Part of the reason it is important for a fast start is because of the Rams ability to run the ball.

The Seahawks offense needs to help the defense by scoring often. The Rams offensive play calling can have more flexibility and be balanced with a lead. Only making the task for the back-up linebackers more challenging

By the same token, the Seahawks front seven needs to improve their tackling after the uncharacteristic performance against Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette in the trenches.

What Sunday means for the Seahawks

With the NFC West crown within grasp with two home games left out of the three games. There is no better place than Centurylink for Seattle to defend the division.

Nonetheless, no matter the score or time left on the clock. Optimism should always prevail with Wilson at the helm.