This is the seventh in a series of articles previewing the NFL season. Today we will be featuring the NFC West.
Whatifsports.com will utilize our NFL-simulation technology, statistical research capabilities, and up-to-the-minute roster and depth-chart information to preview the upcoming NFL season.
Rosters and depth charts are up to date and as accurate as possible as of June 8, 2008. A schedule of upcoming NFL preview content, including links to other previews that have already been posted, is located here.
For details on how we generate the results and the definition of the Absolute Record, click here.
Seattle Seahawks (9-7)
Despite several additions, Seattle's offense is declining. The defense, on the other hand, is one of the best in the NFL. Some of the defensive numbers for 2008 are inflated due to a relatively weak schedule (save for playing the Cowboys and Patriots in back-to-back weeks).
The talent is there, however, to dominate and help the team win its close games. The Seahawks average 20.6 points per game (26th in the NFL) and allow 18.1 points (Second) against a schedule featuring six games against 2007 playoff teams.
Absolute Record: 11-5
Most Significant Newcomer: Julius Jones, RB—Jones is the first newcomer we have discussed whose impact is not necessarily positive. By definition though, he will have more impact on this team in 2008 than any other player who was not on the roster last season.
Jones is an average NFL back with decent hands, but he lacks dynamic ability in the run and pass game. He is not really an every-down or every-situation back.
Going to a team that has seen its offensive line age and regress over the last few years may not help. Nonetheless, Julius Jones is an upgrade over no one (a.k.a. Shaun Alexander). We will see plenty of Maurice Morris again in 2008. The team is also high on T.J. Duckett.
For Jones, we project 927 rushing yards on 235 carries.
Biggest Strength:
2 comments Last one added about 1 year ago — Leave a Comment
Bryan Goldberg about 1 year ago
If the Niners went 8-8 I suppose I'd be thrilled by that result, since I don't see this team being THAT much better than last year. I think that Mariucci should have been fired, as he is more of a personnel manager than a coach (and yet they fired him as personnel manager??)
Smith simply does not have it. He doesn't. He is not a top-tier QB. Period. I'd like to see them give some of the other guys a look.
The ONLY player who gets me salivating for the season to start is Willis. He's already special, and he has a chance to be THE dominant defensive player of his generation.
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john billdo about 1 year ago
re: seahawks article
'with pollard gone from the passing game'...
don't get that statement, he was never in it. almost the worst tight end in the game. good riddence!
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