The X-Factor that can lead the Seattle Seahawks to victory in Week 6

The expectations are changing for the Seattle Seahawks. Entering the season, not many would have guessed a Week 6 bout with the Arizona Cardinals could have serious implications down the road. However, the performance of Geno Smith through the first 5 games has been eye-opening enough to consider the Seahawks as a potential Wild Card team. One game could be considered a fluke, but the volume matched with production has been a beautiful sight to see from our offense.

Unlike Seattle, Arizona entered the season with high hopes and aspirations. After extending their general manager and head coach along with paying their franchise quarterback, a 2-3 start is quite disappointing for the red birds. Both of these teams are coming off a Week 5 loss. The story remains the same for Seattle. Defensive woes continue to overshadow impressive offensive performances. Nonetheless, it is not too late to turn the tides.

One middle linebacker, in particular, is going to have to step up going up against a speedy quarterback and tight end-friendly scheme.

Seattle Seahawks: The X-Factor who can lead them to victory

Jordyn Brooks is currently tied for 3rd in tackles. He has really good instincts and just like his predecessor, has a knack for hitting people. But, it hasn’t helped this rushing defense for Seattle.

With one of the worst defenses in the NFL, the Seahawks need to find a way to turn things around. The downfall is the lack of pursuit in rush defense. Besides Al Woods, no one has done a good enough job of collapsing on the holes and making the tackle on the spot.

Going up against a mobile quarterback in Kyler Murray, Jordyn Brooks will most likely be tasked with spying. Not only will that be a huge factor in getting them off the field, but it will rub off on every other level of the defense.

More importantly, the Cardinals scheme is tight end friendly. In last year’s two matchups, Zach Ertz had 15 catches for 175 yards and 2 touchdowns. With DeAndre Hopkins still serving his suspension, the Seahawks will need to focus their attention on Ertz.

There is a good chance that the Seahawks find themselves in another shootout. However, if this defense can provide one spark, whether it comes from a forced fumble, interception, or huge stop at some point in the second half, it can truly make all the difference in this game.

Jordyn Brooks needs to lead this group in getting back on track. Stop the run. Contain Kyler. Slow down Ertz. If our offense can continue its hot pace, we should be able to get back to .500.