NFC West Power Rankings: Week Nine
2 – Seattle Seahawks, 4-4 (Last week: 3)
Nov 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll reacts during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
The Seattle Seahawks entered their bye week third in the division, but with the St. Louis loss, they find themselves tied for second. The Seahawks have been extremely streaky, as they lost their first two games, then won the next two, before losing the next two, and then winning the final two before the bye week.
Quarterback Russell Wilson, despite being sacked an NFL-high 31 times behind a makeshift offensive line, has been extremely efficient thus far. He’s completed 68.8 percent of his passes for 1,878 yards, and has thrown nine touchdowns to six interceptions. His 95.0 passer rating is right on pace with his 2014 campaign.
Running back Marshawn Lynch has been inconsistent, due both to injuries and some shoddy blocking in front of him. On 103 attempts, he’s gained 375 yards and scored just twice. In comparison, undrafted rookie Thomas Rawls has gained one more yard than Lynch on 34 less attempts.
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Despite the perceived struggles from new tight end Jimmy Graham, the former New Orleans Saint leads Seattle in receptions (38), yards (450), and is tied for first in receiving touchdowns (two).
After a slow start to the year, the Seahawks’ defense is back on par with being one of the best in the game. The 16.6 first downs allowed is lowest in the NFL, the 284.9 yards allowed per game is second-lowest, and the 17.5 points allowed is third-lowest.
After the week off, the Seahawks play host to the Arizona Cardinals, who lead the division. That game could go a long way towards deciding who’s who in the NFC West.
Next: Head of the Pack