Seahawks vs 49ers: Hoping for Percy Harvin to Return
By Todd Pheifer
Jan 11, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin (11) catches a pass against New Orleans Saints cornerback Corey White (24) during the first half of the 2013 NFC divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
The Seattle Seahawks will need every possible weapon when they face the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game. Therefore, it would be great if Percy Harvin could get back on the field.
Unfortunately, we will need to wait and see whether Harvin is cleared to play. As noted by The Seattle Times:
"Harvin has to be cleared by a team doctor along with an unaffiliated concussion expert physician approved by the league and players association."
One can probably assume that the team will be motivated to clear Harvin. Whether the “unaffiliated” but still “approved” physician will also give Harvin the green light is hard to determine.
One thing is clear. Harvin could be a crucial piece to the puzzle.
This is not to suggest that the Seahawks are in trouble without Harvin. The electric receiver has appeared in a grand total of two games this season. In other words, the Seahawks essentially went 13-3 without him. Granted, this is not to argue that the Seahawks can easily beat the 49ers without Harvin on the field.
The point is that Harvin could be a game changer.
Golden Tate, Doug Baldwin, Jermaine Kearse and Zach Miller may be enough to beat San Francisco. If Marshawn Lynch can run the ball like he did against the New Orleans Saints and Russell Wilson can do some effective work with his feet, the Seahawks may not need a dynamic air attack.
Still, would Harvin’s presence add a level of confidence to this team? Probably. Based on prior testimonials, Harvin’s teammates recognize his ability. If he is able to suit it, his presence may tip the scales even farther in Seattle’s favor.
Hope your head clears, Mr. Harvin. Hope to see you on Sunday…on the field.