WHEN THE SEAHAWKS HAVE THE BALL
KEY PLAYERS
Seahawks QB Russell Wilson always seems to find himself at the right place at the right time. His uncanny knack for making big plays — and avoiding bad ones at the wrong time — could make the difference. Veteran Broncos CB Champ Bailey, healthy after recovering from a foot injury, relies on guile more than superior talent in his 15th NFL season.
ON THE GROUND
The Seahawks have an old-school, run-oriented attack with a 21st-century twist — the power of Marshawn Lynch (301-1,257, 12) and the quickness and intuition of QB Russell Wilson (96-539, 1) prevents opponents from getting a bead on what looks like a predictable attack. The Seahawks were fourth in the NFL in rushing (137 ypg), second in attempts (509) and — perhaps most important — only lost two fumbles in the run game. The Broncos were seventh vs. the run but allowed 15 TDs. Lynch is known for wearing down defenses, and the Broncos, not the heftiest defense, will be challenged to hold up all game.
IN THE AIR
If Wilson is not overwhelmed by the moment, he could have a huge game against a Broncos defense that is good but not great. Wilson is deceptive as a passer; he was 16th in passing yards (3,357) but fourth in yards per attempt (8.25). His weapons similarly are underrated, and Wilson has a lot of them, led by Golden Tate (64-898, 5), Doug Baldwin (50-778, 5) and TE Zach Miller (33-387, 5), with Percy Harvin back from an injury. If Wilson can withstand the Broncos’ pressure, he will have plenty of opportunities to make plays against a secondary that is opportunistic but vulnerable.