Seattle Seahawks Week 7 X-Factor comes from rookie class

Entering Week 7 of the NFL season, the Seattle Seahawks should be classified as criminals for the highway robbery they committed in the offseason. To the surprise of many, Russell Wilson has set the kitchen on fire in Denver.

Regardless of the one-game difference in record, the Seattle Seahawks simply just look like the better team. Early indications would suggest they have won the trade. If things continue down this path, despite whatever Seattle does for the rest of the season, Pete Carroll and John Schneider will be receiving a lot of praise for moving off a Seahawks legend at the right time.

One of the picks acquired from the Broncos in the trade turned into LT Charles Cross. Arguably, the most ready-made left tackle entering this season. His play would certainly back that up. Their second-round pick, Kenneth Walker III, who came on the back end of two straight picks is being given the opportunity to prove himself.

Unfortunately, it comes through an injury that no one wanted to see Rashaad Penny suffer. Nonetheless, our young running back is ready to show out. This week against the Los Angeles Chargers, he is my X-Factor.

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

Statically speaking, the Seahawks and Chargers fall on the same defensive stratosphere. They both rank in the bottom half of passing yards allowed, rushing yards allowed and scoring defense. Does this mean we are prone to another offensive shootout on Sunday? Maybe.

However, I see it as an opportunity for this Seahawks team to build off the defensive momentum they established last week against the Cardinals. In spite of their 4-2 record, the Los Angeles Chargers find themselves pretty banged up. No one is quite sure what has happened to CB J.C. Jackson. Keenan Allen seems to be out again this weekend, and Justin Herbert is still dealing with a lingering rib injury.t

Yes, Austin Ekeler has the potential to dominate this game as did Alvin Kamara a few weeks back. But, if the Seahawks can establish the rushing attack, they can win the time of possession battle. More importantly, the rest of the offense will open up, leaving the potential for a big play down the field.

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Kenneth Walker is explosive. He has great lateral movement, which was on full display against Arizona. He has the strength to bounce off defenders and the home run play ability to break one loose. One of the weaknesses of this Los Angeles defense is their linebacker group. Expect the tight ends to be involved early and often.

The play of Kenneth Walker will dictate whether or not Los Angeles decides to stack the box. It will dictate how the offensive rhythm gets established and most importantly, will be the deciding factor in if the Seahawks can win this game and get back over the .500 mark.

I like the 2nd round pick to leave his mark on this game and let the world know why the Seattle Seahawks were so excited when they drafted him.