Seattle Seahawks: 3 Bold predictions vs. Buccaneers, Week 9
By Samuel Teets
1. Wilson throws for 400 yards
While the Buccaneers have one of the best run-stopping defenses in the league, the same can’t be said for their pass defense. Tampa Bay is allowing 285.9 passing yards per game. Even Daniel Jones, who has thrown seven interceptions in six starts, threw for 336 yards against the Buccaneers. If a struggling rookie can do that, imagine the numbers Wilson will produce.
Wilson is passing for 265.9 yards per game, but he has already posted a 400-yard game this season. Traditionally, the Seahawks don’t go for huge passing totals and prefer to control the tempo of the game on the ground. However, Tampa Bay’s unique defensive composition invites offenses to avoid running and focus on passing.
The Seahawks have two deep-ball threats at the receiving position. Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf are both capable of taking the roof off of defenses. While Lockett is being utilized more like a short to intermediate receiver this season, he still possesses blazing speed that defenders must respect.
Metcalf, who towers over defensive backs at 6-4, is deceptively fast for his size. We’ve already seen the rookie thrive as a deep threat this season, that’s why he’s averaging 17.5 yards per reception.
Seattle might not set out to throw the ball a lot, but opportunities will present themselves against the Buccaneers. Even if the Seahawks remain committed to the ground game, Wilson will connect with receivers on several home run balls in Week 9.