Percy Harvin Will Play in Super Bowl XLVIII
By Todd Pheifer
Jan 11, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Percy Harvin (11) during pre game warm ups before the 2013 NFC divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Seattle defeated New Orleans 23-15. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports
Barring an unforeseen setback, Percy Harvin will play in Super Bowl XLVIII when the Seattle Seahawks take on the mighty Denver Broncos. Admittedly, this is not shocking news. Given the two-week break and the fact that Harvin was probably close to playing in the NFC Championship game, it was expected that he would be cleared.
So, what does this mean? Will Harvin take over the game, have 10 catches and run back two kickoffs for touchdowns?
Maybe, but probably not.
Certainly Harvin will be part of the offense. If he is able to get into a rhythm, stay on the field and find holes in the Denver defense, Russell Wilson will look for him.
However, Harvin’s biggest contribution may simply be his presence. The problem for the Broncos is that they will need to account for the electric Harvin. That may mean double-teams or particular coverages that are designed to thwart the speed and elusiveness of Harvin.
What we may see is increased productivity by Golden Tate, Doug Baldwin, Jermaine Kearse and Zach Miller. Harvin gets plenty of attention but the rest of the receivers don’t get nearly enough credit. In addition, Wilson is very comfortable spreading the ball around.
If Harvin gets going, it may open things up all the more for Marshawn Lynch and the running game. Does this all sound too easy?
The tough part of forecasting Harvin’s impact is that he has been a constant question all season. He could make a huge impact on this game, but he could also end up in the hands of the medical staff yet again.
Stay tuned. There are plenty of interesting stories leading up to the big game, but Harvin’s role may be the most discussed aspect of this thickening plot.