Vindicate
In the Starting Line-Up
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- Oct 2, 2015
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Think any fair analysis would give the Seahawks the edge here but not overwhelmingly so - 40/60 or 45/55 territory.
The reality is we need our MVP-caliber QB to outplay their sometimes-hot sometimes-not QB and we win. But the latter gets to work with better offensive support (mainly JSN but Kupp is a wily vet, Walker is incredibly shifty as a receiver out of the backfield).
Drake frankly hasn't played up to his full capability in the playoffs. There have been spurts of it but he hasn't consistently brought his top level. He will need to bring his best to this game (receivers will also have to make some tough catches, offensive line has to hold up mostly) and I think we win. It really does come down to him and the rest of the offense.
They haven't played up to their capabilities in the playoffs but have made clutch plays when needed so far. This game they will need to bring consistency on top of a few clutch big plays as our defense is not facing an impaired offense so it would be unfair to expect them to hold the Seahawks to <17 pts, but at the same time I don't think they will get trucked for 25+ (Seahawks are not the Rams or Bills on offense). Our offense has the capability to score in the low/mid-20s against this tough Seahawks D on a good day...if they can do it we should be able to win a tight one. Would be easier if Darnold gives us some short fields but we shouldn't walk in expecting "bad Darnold" in this game as part of the plan.
I think they can and will score more than that. The Rams showed what it looks like for a competent offense to face the Seahawks and the Patriots had the 2nd best offense this year league wide.
Whereas our old QB found it difficult to answer interior pressure, Maye's legs are going to once again be a key to victory. It's up to the Seahawks to both apply pressure and avoid scramble gains. Good luck.
I think after the Texans and Broncos, both in bad weather, our WR's are going to never take seeing dry green for granted and will feel confident in their route running. I expect Diggs to reel in more than he has this post season, I think he will do whatever he can to be open and help Maye. He wants this so bad.
Alongside the receivers, Henderson and Stevenson are going to be deadly weapons with a more traction underneath their feet.
The whole playbook is open to McDaniels - our RB's can be trusted to run and pass catch. Our receivers will get more open. Hollins is gonna be that random target you forget about. Or Henry. It's just too many options to account for. The pressure Maye will face is the pressure he's better at handling.
The offense will help keep Darnold and Co. cold and out of rhythm.
ST is where the real fight is gonna be. And I trust our coaching staff to get them up to snuff these next few practices.











