Can the Seahawks Make it 3-3?
There are a few key story lines running through today's Seahawks-Browns matchup, but which ones will have the most impact on the game's outcome?
1) Holmgren Reunion. Mike Holmgren was the head coach of the Seahawks from 1999 to 2008. He cultivated Matt Hasselbeck into a solid starting quarterback, helped make the team a frequent playoff participant, and even led the franchise to their first Super Bowl in 2005. After the expiration of his eight-year contract in Seattle, he eventually settled in Cleveland as the president of the Browns. He has a reputation of turning teams around (the Packers and Seahawks were both rejuvenated under his tenure), and the Browns have already shown signs of promise that might convince their fans to take the paper bags off their heads. He also seems to have a special touch with quarterback talent (see Brett Favre, Matt Hasselbeck), and current QB starter Colt McCoy has potential.
Influence on the Outcome? We're guessing minimal. This is a great press angle for the media to attack, but should have very little bearing on the game itself.
2) Charlie Whitehurst Could Get the Start. For several months now, there has been debate about the Seahawks' starting quarterback. Tavaris Jackson was named the starter following his arrival in August, but perpetual backup Whitehurst has been playing at a good enough level to make some fans question that choice. Now, with Jackson's injury status still in question, Whitehurst is set to make his third career start in today's game.
Influence on the Outcome? Should be huge. While Whitehurst doesn't have the scrambling abilities of Jackson, he tends to be more reliable with the football and just as capable of running the no-huddle offense. Add on the fact that it's a contract year for Whitehurst, and there is no reason for him not to give it his all.
3) Injuries. Peyton Hillis, the Browns running back with the ginormous biceps, is out with a hamstring injury, which seriously limits Cleveland's running game. However, the Seahawks boast a decent run defense, which implies that the Browns might be prepared to focus on their passing game anyway. Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch sprained his ankle in the Giants game two weeks ago, but coming off a bye week it shouldn't affect him too much today. Seattle's tight end Zach Miller will be sitting out today's game with head and neck injuries, and Cameron Morrah has been activated to fill in the gaps. However, it's Morrah's first game of the season, so he could be a little rusty. Also, in reactivation news, Robert Gallery is back from a groin injury and is expected to start as left guard.
Influence on the Outcome? The Browns will definitely miss Hillis' powerful running game, but it could be an opportunity for Colt McCoy to show some creativity in the quarterback position. Zach Miller's injury is a blow for the Seahawks, but having Gallery back in the lineup is huge. So, while the injured players absence will be felt, it could open up some interesting opportunities.
4) On the Road. The Seahawks haven't won back-to-back road games since the 2007 season. They pulled off an upset over the Giants two weeks ago, are well-rested following a bye week, and the offense has been clicking. Seattle could be due for two consecutive road wins.
Influence on the Outcome? An early game in the Eastern time zone for the second game in a row could have some impact, but they managed fairly well against the Giants under similar conditions, so...we'll see.
Prediction: Should be a close one, but we're giving the Seahawks the edge.
Kickoff is at 10am.
