Game Preview: Cowboys at Seahawks in Week 3

 

Both Seahawks and Cowboys Motivated to Make A Statement

While clouds of uncertainty hangover both franchises in this week three showdown; both Cowboys and Seahawks fans will have some closure once the dust settles Sunday afternoon. The narratives in this game alone will make it a must watch. The Seahawks will try and bounce back from an 0-2 start to the 2018 campaign, victims of a brutal opening road schedule. Back on home turf, Seattle will try and prove to the 12th man that their decision to rebuild in the middle of star quarterback Russell Wilson’s career was necessary. Inevitably, (and much to Seattle’s annoyance) Sunday’s contest will further ramp up the Earl Thomas trade rumors involving the Cowboys. The Seahawks have every incentive to approach this game as if their season depends on it. Seattle wants to prove that releasing former defensive coordinator Kris Richard was necessary for the benefit of the franchise. What better way to do so than to shut out his new team *dramatic pause*.. the Dallas Cowboys.

Don’t get mislead, the boys in blue have plenty to prove this weekend as well. For starters, Dallas wants to beat Seattle into submission regarding the Earl Thomas negotiations. If the Cowboys can throw Seattle into an 0-3 crater, their offer will undoubtedly appear more appealing to the Seahawks. A second round draft pick would be beneficial to Seattle’s rebuilding process, a consolation for a team unlikely to make the postseason. Since joining the organization, Richard has been emotional dynamite for a young, hungry, and motivated Cowboys defense. Richard has been dubbed by both national and local sportswriters as the MVP of the Cowboys team for the passion and energy he brings to the table. I assure you, dear reader, he will not enter Century Link Field quietly tomorrow.

One Man Can’t Carry a Team Alone. But Russell Wilson Will Try

Wilson’s #1 option in  Doug Baldwin is ruled out with a knee injury. His next best weapon is 34 year old Brandon Marshall. Their running game is atrocious (Seahawks running backs combined for 74 yards on 22 carries for 0 TDs last week- that is an abysmal 3.4 yards per attempt). The storied “Legion of Boom” is no longer, Dallas now rates higher than Seattle in total defense. The Seahawks have already given up 12 sacks on Wilson through two games in 2018.

Despite the obstacles in his way, Wilson continues to produce productive numbers in the Seahawks passing game. Week 1 versus Denver, Wilson posted 298 yards with 3 touchdowns. Week 2, Wilson threw for 226 yards and 2 touchdowns despite being sacked 5 times in the first half. FIVE. It is nothing short of miraculous that Seattle is ranked 27th in overall offense and not 32 due to the volcanic pressure their quarterback is under. Watch Wilson stay poised and deliver a dime despite pressure in his face.

.@TDLockett12 strikes for 6! ⚡️#GoHawks | #SEAvsCHI pic.twitter.com/tvr4AKX3Y8

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) September 18, 2018

However, Dallas Doesn’t Care About Seattle’s Misfortune

Seattle allowed 90 yards on the ground Monday night. The week before, they gave up 150 rushing yards to the Broncos. Dallas has been known to run the ball occasionally. In fact, you could say their entire offense is built around doing so (because it is). Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott should finally pass the century mark at CenturyLink field (see what I did there?). Conditions seem favorable for the running game to kick into full gear this Sunday, which can only help the struggling passing game (right?).

Kris Richard seems to have the Cowboys secondary ready to defend Seattle’s receivers well into their routes, a pivotal factor in minimizing the damage Wilson can cause when he scrambles outside the pocket.

If last week was any indication, the Cowboys secondary seems up to the challenge. If the young defensive backs are able to play backyard football when the routes break down, Dallas’ endless waves of defensive ends and tackles can rotate every couple snaps, staying fresh to chase Wilson all over the field.

Bottom Line

Both teams have struggling offenses and plenty to play for. Ultimately, Dallas’ newly-found defensive strength and re-energized running game should win the day in Washington.