The NFL’s Week 1 schedule comes to a close on Monday Night Football with a compelling revenge game between Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos and his former team, the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle will be looking to capitalize on the losses of each team in their division, while the Broncos will look to take advantage of a game they should win on paper.
The Return
All eyes will focus on the play of Wilson during this game. Over the last couple of years, there were rumors that Seahawks’ franchise quarterback wanted to move on from the franchise, and over the offseason, Seattle finally decided to hit the reset button. It seemed like the best move for both sides, since Wilson wanted a new contract and a better situation to win championships, while Seattle hoped to retool their roster.
Given his impressive resume inclusive of a Super Bowl title, the reception for Wilson in Seattle should be largely positive from the fans before the game. However, Seattle’s fan base and their “12th man” alter ego will be revved up and ready for the primetime stage, meaning that the Broncos offense will have to be prepared to operate in a silent count. This will be Wilson’s first time experiencing this disadvantage as a visitor, and will be tasked with making adjustments to communication as needed.
Will Seattle’s Receivers Continue To Be Stars?
Even though the Seahawks largely focused on the running game for the majority of Wilson’s time in Seattle, he was still able to establish an excellent connection with wide receivers Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf. The tandem would be recognized as one of the very best duos in the NFL, and would often make defenses pay when Wilson kept the play alive by scrambling out of the pocket.
While Lockett and Metcalf are no less talented this year, it is fair to say that their quarterback situation this season is questionable at best. Geno Smith won the competition under center in the preseason, and will be responsible for getting his two perimeter stars involved. Smith does not have the same level of talent as Wilson, so look for Seattle to get the ball in Lockett and Metcalf’s hands in creative ways; screen passes, end-around reverses, and short slants.
Denver’s Budding Backfield Star
Even though the Broncos have been telling the public that their backfield will be a committee headed by Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon, it is abundantly clear that the public(and even possibly the team) want Williams to take the job and run with it in 2022. The former University of North Carolina back had a solid rookie campaign, highlighted by a standout game against the Kansas City Chiefs last season.
Game script figures to work in Denver’s favor, as Seattle is unlikely to put pressure on the Broncos by putting up a ton of points. This means that Williams should have a lot of opportunity to handle the football as the Broncos look to manage the clock and depart Seattle with a Week 1 victory.
