The X-Factor that can lead the Seattle Seahawks to victory in Week 5
By Jake Luppino
Coming off their explosive offensive performance, the Seattle Seahawks look to get back over .500 in Week 5 on the road in New Orleans.
Although it has been exciting to see Geno Smith play at an extremely high level, it has been quite disappointing to see this defense continually get shredded. Despite the pick 6 from rookie Tariq Woolen, the Seahawks can’t stop anybody or anything.
It starts up front with the rushing defense, which eventually opens things up for the passing game. You can imagine for the near future, every X-Factor is going to be on the defensive side of the ball.
On the road against a sturdy defense, the Seahawks ability to keep the Saints out of the end zone will be the deciding factor.
Seattle Seahawks: The X-Factor who can lead them to victory
The good news is the New Orleans Saints are going to be without QB Jameis Winston and WR1 Michael Thomas. However, rookie WR Chris Olave has looked quite impressive early on.
Not to mention HB Alvin Kamara, who will make his return to the field in Week 5. Stopping Karma will be the key to victory for the Seattle Seahawks. The man who should be given the assignment to contain him in the passing game is the one who can help elevate the rest of this defense: S Ryan Neal.
Ryan Neal saw an increased amount of playing time in Week 4. He is quite familiar with this defense and is going to be needed this Sunday. With Al Woods and Jordyn Brooks leading the way in the rushing defense, Neal’s ability to contain Kamara in the passing game can be the difference in this game.
Pete Carroll says bigger role coming for Ryan Neal. "He is going to play more. He deserves to play more. ...I really like him on the field."
— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) October 5, 2022
PC didn't say it. But sensing Seahawks will use him more as a 3d safety more with Diggs, Jones + perhaps replacing Jones at SS at times
If you remember, in games past against the Saints, Kamara has had his way with this defense. Primarily in the passing game, on the many option routes, he runs out of the backfield. Keeping him in front and preventing him from getting past the first tackler can help this defense get the Saints off the field.
I am expecting a low-scoring affair in New Orleans on Sunday. If that is the case, the team who plays better defense will most likely win the game. Eventually, there will come a time in the season when this defense needs to win the game.
Next. Bold predictions for Seahawks and Saints in Week 5. dark
They certainly did it in Week 1 against Denver and I feel, they are going to need to do it again In Week 5.