 The New England Patriots could look to attack the Seattle Seahawks on the ground Sunday. (USA TODAY Images) |
The New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks are less than a week away from kickoff.
While much of the attention has been aimed off the field in the past week, it's time to focus back on the game. At first glance, many would look to Seahawks tailback Marshawn Lynch and how the Patriots will try to stop the league's fourth leading rusher. And, yes, that's a big task for New England this week.
However, New England's ability to run Sunday could determine which team hoists the Lombardi Trophy at the end of season.
Seattle posted a 12-4 record during the regular season, adding two more victories in the post season versus the Carolina Panthers and Green Bay Packers.
In their four losses this season, Seattle allowed an average of 139 yards on 33 rush attempts. Compare those numbers to their 14 wins, when their opponent averaged just 73 yards on 22 ground attempts.
Obviously, finding success against the Seahawks tough defense is easier said than done. After all, Seattle was second in the NFL this season in yards-per-carry allowed, averaging 3.4 ypc to opponents, behind only the Detroit Lions.
Seattle's defense is a fast and swarming unit, illustrated by their league-leading 1.37 yards-after-contact to opposing ball carriers this season. On the other hand, Pats running back, LeGarrette Blount, led the NFL this season with 2.57 yards-after-contact.
Something has to give.
Tom Brady cannot drop back 50-plus times Sunday. If the Patriots can generate some momentum on the ground, it will open up opportunities in the passing game and keep the unit balanced.
Seattle's run defense has softened up in the post season, allowing 132 yards rushing to the Panthers and 135 yards to the Packers. If the Seahawks fail to tighten up their rush defense, New England will take advantage.
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