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Seattle Seahawks: Number One Key to Victory in Week 2 Against San Francisco 49ers


Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Seattle Seahawks opened the season with a somewhat boring performance overall against the Carolina Panthers. While the defense played phenomenally, Seattle didn’t manage to put many points on the board. That will have to change if they are going to have a chance against their division rival San Francisco 49ers next week.

Quarterback Russell Wilson passed for 320 yards and a touchdown in the victory, targeting an eye-opening nine different players. Without Percy Harvin in the lineup, Wilson still looked as comfortable as ever leading the offense Sunday.

The problem did not lie in the passing game, though, but in the rushing attack — or lack thereof.

Starting running back Marshawn Lynch only totaled 43 yards on 17 carries, giving him an average of 2.5 yards per carry. He also caught two passes for nine yards. This, above all else, cannot happen against San Francisco next week.

It is quite impressive that Wilson did so well without a legitimately established run game. Completing 25 of 33 passes and averaging 9.7 yards per completion, Wilson looked fantastic. Against a 49ers defense in week two, that will be a much tougher task.

San Francisco boasts one of the top defenses in the NFL, and Wilson won’t be able to win the game alone. If Seattle is smart, they will allow for Lynch to get established early on. The play of the offensive line has to be near-perfect for that to happen, though. The front seven for the 49ers is arguably the best in all of football.

If Lynch can get a bulk of carries to begin the game, Seattle will have an easier time opening up the pass. Wilson looks to keep proving that he can indeed play the quarterback position at a high level despite his size and plenty of doubters still, but Lynch has to help him out in that effort. Week two will be a big test for Wilson and the Seahawks. Will Seattle be able to lead a balanced attack? Let’s hope so.

Ryan Heckman is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.comFollow him on Twitter  @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

 

Related: 

Seattle Seahawks Need Balanced Attack in Week 2

Seattle Seahawks vs. Carolina Panthers Game Ball: QB Russell Wilson


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