Seahawks vs. Packers
Sunday, 6:40 p.m. ET, Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
TV: Fox
Danny Sheridan’s line: Packers by 4
Seahawks’ keys to victory: The Packers’ defense has been susceptible to big plays in 2019, and the Seahawks can exploit that potential weakness with QB Russell Wilson and WRs DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett in the vertical passing game. Wilson, who is 0-3 in his career at Lambeau Field, completed 11 passes to the receiver pair for 222 yards in Philadelphia. The Seahawks must find ways to limit Packers RB Aaron Jones’ efficiency on early downs. Pressuring QB Aaron Rodgers on obvious passing downs while keeping him inside the pocket will also be important. Seattle got sacks from six players, including DE Jadeveon Clowney, to help beat the Eagles.
Packers’ keys to victory: The Packers have been far too inconsistent throwing the ball, but it’s possible a week off could give the offense a chance to catch fire in the postseason. The goal for coach Matt LaFleur has to be creating opportunities for WR Davante Adams and Jones, the offense’s two big-play threats. Rodgers often needs them to carry the load. The defense must win the line of scrimmage, harass Wilson in and take advantage of any takeaway opportunity created by the disruption.
Matchup to watch: Seahawks’ Metcalf vs. Packers CB Kevin King. Metcalf, a rookie, produced 160 receiving yards against the Eagles, including a 53-yard TD and the game-sealing catch. King, who is 6-3, is physically capable of countering him.
Who wins? A big night from Jones and an opportunistic defense should help.
Packers, 23-20