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Special Preview- NFL, Week Seven
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks
Chiefs (5-0):
When they’re playing well and are relevant, I feel it’s great for the league. I’ve seen so much of them since Patrick Mahomes took over, and they’ve always had a machine of an offense. Even after Tyreek Hill was traded in 2022, I thought this offense would become even more dangerous because defenses wouldn’t know who to key in on. I’ve talked about their struggles from last season more than enough, and there’s no need to bring that up anymore because it’s in the past. Now, let’s talk about what I’ve seen from them this year. Andy Reid is one of the best offensive minds not just in the league, but in the history of the sport. As an experienced coach, he’s been able to adapt to the game, which is something many coaches don’t do these days. In all my years of watching him coach, this is by far the most balanced offensive group he’s ever had. What’s impressed me most about the Chiefs so far is that they aren’t relying on Patrick to bail them out and make magic happen on every single play. Kenneth Walker III has been a godsend for Kansas City, and because of the threat he’s become, I’ve noticed defenses committing more attention to him. That, in turn, makes the quarterback more dangerous. It brings me back to what I always say: You can’t double-team or focus on everyone. The defense has been finishing plays, getting off the field, and, in turn, getting the ball back to the offense. It’s a complete turnaround from last year. Tonight, the Chiefs make their way to Seattle for a Sunday night showdown with the champs.
Seahawks (3-3):
They’re in such a weird spot right now. Let’s get the good out of the way first. This is still one of the best defensive teams in the league, and I knew Mike Macdonald would continue to have this unit playing at the top of its game. They’ve allowed only 237 yards per game, the lowest total in the NFL, and they’re taking the football away, leading the league with 11 takeaways. The problems have occurred on the other side of the football: the offense. Let’s break this down. As great as Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been this year, the Seahawks are far too dependent on him. He’s accounted for nearly half of their receiving yards, and this is where the other players around him need to step up to throw defenses off. The running game has been practically nonexistent (I wonder why…), and they rank 18th in the league, averaging 107 rushing yards per game. When Jadarian Price was healthy, I told myself they’d be fine, but he’s hurt, and Zach Charbonnet has also yet to play this year as he recovers from an injury. The biggest issue has been Sam Darnold and his persistent turnover problems! Every time I look up, he’s giving the ball to the other team. I don’t think the Seahawks are a bad football team whatsoever. I’m not saying that at all. However, I’ve noticed that their offense isn’t playing up to the level of their defense, and that’s where the disconnect stems from. The champs will look to get back on track tonight against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Chiefs X-Factor: Xavier Worthy
I feel that the more they incorporate him into the offense, the more dangerous he can become, and Mahomes will get him the ball. With Rashee Rice out tonight, Xavier will be the primary receiver. His speed can stretch a defense and allow him to attack the secondary vertically. If the safeties back up to protect the deep part of the field, that will create opportunities underneath for Kelce and KW3 (Kenneth Walker III). One touch of the ball from Xavier could potentially flip the game, and this will be the toughest defense the Chiefs have faced this year. A deep completion, a catch followed by yards after the catch, or a manufactured touch could make all the difference.
Seahawks X-Factor: Rashid Shaheed
The Seahawks struck gold when they acquired him last season, and he’s fit in perfectly in Seattle. What Marvin Mims is to the Denver Broncos is what Rashid Shaheed is to the Seattle Seahawks.
I mentioned earlier that other weapons needed to step up for the Seattle offense to take pressure off JSN, and Shaheed could be the guy to do it. Rashid has game-changing speed, with the ability to stretch the field and get behind the secondary. He can punish aggressive defenses and provide Seattle with a threat on the outside.
However, his biggest impact comes on special teams. If he can record some productive returns, he could give Seattle prime field position.
Final Thoughts:
February 8, 2026. It’s Super Bowl Sunday, and the Seahawks are gearing up to play the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl. Kenneth Walker III has the game of his life, rushing for 135 yards on 27 carries. He’s named Super Bowl MVP, and the Seahawks win their second Super Bowl title in franchise history. On March 12 of this year, the Chiefs swoop in and sign the reigning Super Bowl MVP. For the first time since then, Kenneth will face his former team. The Chiefs must keep Mahomes protected against a Seattle defense that will look to rush the passer, apply pressure, and record sacks. Patrick will need all the time he can get to find his receivers. The Seahawks, meanwhile, must keep Jaxon Smith-Njigba under control. The Chiefs need to vary their coverages, limit yards after the catch, and force Darnold to look elsewhere to beat them. The final key is to make Darnold uncomfortable. Can Seattle take care of the ball? Limiting mistakes is vital against a productive Kansas City defense. The Seahawks must contain Kenneth Walker III, limit his rushing production, and force the Chiefs into obvious passing situations. Most importantly, the complementary pieces must step up and make plays of their own.
