No team has defended their title since the New England Patriots in 2004 but this years champs led by coach Pete Caroll look poised to make a serious run at that streak of futility.
What makes the Seahawks so formidable is that their already vaunted defense is now being matched with an explosive offense that can put up points in a hurry. Former Bufallo Bill cast off Marshawn Lynch leads a running game which other teams can not seem to stop. But the biggest wildcard is Percy Harvin. he brings such explosive speed both when lined up in the backfield or as a wideout that other teams have to pay special attention. Can they be stopped? That is the million dollar question. The thursday nite opener versus the Green Bay Packers, a team many saw as potential title contenders was as one sided as you can get, with the Hawks' cruising to a 20 point win. The biggest problem for the other teams in the NFC will be hoping Seattle do not get home field advantage throughout the playoffs or else another trip to the Bowl may be inevtiable.
here are some other things to watch from the upcoming season
- Can Peyton Manning and the Broncos recreate the absolutely explosive season they had last year. Especially having lost first wide receiver Eric Decker who went to the Jets via free agency and then more crushing; losing Wes Welker to a 4 game ban.
- How much more does Tom Brady have in the tank. Surprisingly not much has been paid to the Patriots chances this year even though AFC east remains very weak
-Johnny Football. The Browns are going to the have the enigmatic rookie quarterback backup but for how long? There is just too much hype around Manziel that you just know that it will only be a matter of time before Johnny is flashing his trademark dollar signs on the field. Having lost NFL leading receiver Josh Gordon to a year long suspension, he will be missing a vital cog
- The Packers rebuilt their defence but they have already been hot with a couple of key injuries to their O-Line. Will GM ted Thompson try and bring in some replacement help which he hardly ever does or will they just make-do with what they have. If you are a packer fan you hope it is the latter.
The Philadelphia Eagles made a big splash in bringing in Darren Sproles to supplement All Pro LeSean McCoy. How will they fare in the NFC East with the Dallas Cowboys fans practically begging owner Jerry Jones for a return to the playoffs.
Can anyone in the NFC West give the Seahawks a run? The 49ers looked like the most obvious threat but their defense has looked very shaky in the pre-season. the St. Louis Rams took a massive blow with the loss of QB Sam Bradford to a season ending injury which leaves the Arizona Cardinals as possible threats to the NFC West crown.
So the battle has begun to see who will play in the 49th Superbowl to be played in Arizona. Whom will be the participants? Time will tell. In the meantime all we can do is sit back and enjoy the ride.
