Detroit Lions: Golden Tate, 5 players who must come up big vs. Seahawks

Sep 20, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Detroit Lions running back Ameer Abdullah (21) rushes against the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

RB Ameer Abdullah

Speaking of players who can make things happen with the ball in their hands, running back Ameer Abdullah is absolutely electric, and he’s the kind of player who can prove to be an X-Factor against an elite defense like Seattle’s. As of right now, it’s been business as usual for the Seahawks run defense, because teams are putting up just 3.7 yards per carry on Ahtyba Rubin, Bennett, and Co. Sometimes I wonder if the Seahawks pass rushing prowess at DE makes people forget just how awesome this unit is at defending the run, specifically Bennett.

Abdullah’s rookie season has been a success thus far, but it should honestly be even more apparent on the stat sheet. The issue is that the Lions run blocking hasn’t been up to snuff, and that’s held Abdullah down to just 3.9 yards per carry. However, when you consider that Joique Bell has been given the rock just once less time than Abdullah and is averaging an unbelievably poor 1.1 yards per carry, it becomes clear that Abdullah is doing everything he can.

He’ll somehow have to do more against the Seahawks defense, because we all know just how dominant this unit is. Abdullah’s work in the passing game should also come in handy, even if Theo Riddick should continue to be the team’s primary option of the backfield on passing plays (Riddick has as many receptions as Tate this season).

Next: Pass Rush