Before training camp started I must admit I was skeptical about the Seahawks chances of making the playoffs. There were questions about the left side of the offensive line, uncertainty at the wide receiver position, and a brutal schedule that includes the New England Patriots, the Green Bay Packers, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Chicago Bears. Now that the preseason is winding down I feel much more optimistic. The Seattle Seahawks are a legitimate pick to make the playoffs and if they can stay healthy it could be a magical season. Here's 5 reasons why the Seahawks will make the playoffs.
1. Pete Carroll. Pete Carroll is the architect, the alchemist, and the mad scientist behind the organization. In 3 short years Carroll has turned over the entire roster and infused it with young talented players at virtually every position. He preaches competition on a daily basis and puts the best players on the field regardless of age, contract money, or size. So far Pete seems to be pushing all the right buttons and the team has responded in a positive manner.
2. Russell Wilson. And to think I thought this guy made a mistake not playing baseball. The 5'10 quarterback defied the odds by beating out Matt Flynn to become the opening day starter. All he did was master the playbook, earn the team's confidence, and excel in game situations every time he stepped on the field. His arm is strong and accurate and his ability to make plays outside of the pocket give the Seahawks an added dimension they could definitely use. Wilson made the most of his opportunity and from the looks of things he will be a starter in this league for years to come.
3. Robert Turbin. I wasn't sold on Robert Turbin when the Seahawks drafted him (I thought they should have picked Chris Polk), but after watching him in training camp I'm on the Turbin bandwagon. He's got size, speed, and catches the ball out of the backfield. Turbin's skill set blends nicely with Marshawn " Beast Mode" Lynch and he's a great insurance policy if Lynch gets hurt.
4. The Defense. Without question the defense is the heart and soul of this team. They have a massive defensive line, agile linebackers, and the best secondary in football. Rookie Bruce Irvin has shown flashes of brilliance with his pass rushing ability and pro bowl safety Earl Thomas is super special. He deserves to be mentioned with the likes of Ed Reed and Troy Polamalu. If everything goes well they could potentially be a top 5 defense in the NFL.
5. Weak Division. Although the San Francisco 49ers were an impressive 13-3 last season the NFC West is not a strong division. The Arizona Cardinals and the St. Louis Rams are a work in progress that will not get finished this year. The Seahawks should sweep those two teams and split with the 49ers giving them 5 wins in the division. If they can win half of their games outside of the division and get to 10 wins the playoff are well within their reach.
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