Seattle Seahawks: 3 Keys to Beating the Atlanta Falcons
By Nick Lee
3) At least slow down Julio Jones
Notice I didn’t say “stop” Julio Jones. That would be asking the near-impossible.
In their matchup early in the season, Jones did get seven catches for 139 yards and a touchdown. The Seahawks did defend him well at the most critical moments (see Richard Sherman‘s so-called “missed pass-interference” call).
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However, it will be a different animal to try to do this without All-Pro safety Earl Thomas lurking. He had three tackles and an interception in that game.
The interesting dynamic is that the Seahawks were without Kam Chancellor that day, who will be playing on Saturday. This begs the question, which will play a bigger impact on containing Jones: Thomas without Chancellor or Chancellor without Thomas?
The Seahawks absolutely need to limit big, explosive plays. The Hawks’ offense is not built to win a shootout in a dome, like the Falcons are.
Next: Seahawks vs Falcons - Latest odds & stats
Do you have any other important keys you would add, that will help the Seahawks beat the Falcons? Further, what’s your prediction for the final outcome, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section.