Seattle Seahawks: 5 Bold predictions for Week 5 vs. Vikings
By Samuel Teets
After several close calls, the Seattle Seahawks face the 1-3 Minnesota Vikings in Week 5.
Russell Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks are one of six remaining undefeated teams through four weeks of the 2020 NFL season. The team’s evolving offense is shredding defenses every week and putting Wilson at the center of early MVP discussions.
Pete Carroll’s team hasn’t finished first in the NFC West since 2016, and it hasn’t reached the Conference Championship since 2014. Luckily, Wilson has his eyes set on ending those streaks this season.
In Week 5, the Seahawks face the underperforming 1-3 Minnesota Vikings. Fans shouldn’t underestimate Mike Zimmer’s team, which is better than its record shows. However, the Vikings also offer the Seahawks a perfect opportunity to test their mettle against a talented roster with some obvious holes.
5. Metcalf continues marching toward stardom
Through four weeks, D.K. Metcalf and Stefon Diggs lead the NFL with 403 receiving yards. Metcalf is tied with Chase Claypool for the league-lead in yards per reception (25.2) as well. After a promising rookie season, the Ole Miss product is thriving alongside his MVP-caliber quarterback. At this pace, Metcalf could quickly become one of the NFL’s top receivers.
Last season, Kenny Golladay led the NFL with 11 receiving touchdowns, and only one player (Michael Thomas) crossed the 1,400-yard threshold. Based on his averages, Metcalf should finish 2020 with 12 receiving touchdowns and 1,612 yards. That performance is deserving of an All-Pro selection and a seat among the league’s top five receivers. With injuries slowing down Davante Adams, Chris Godwin, Golladay, Julio Jones, and Thomas, 2020 is the perfect year for Metcalf’s breakout season.
Minnesota’s secondary features two star safeties, but neither has the speed to keep up with Metcalf. Zimmer’s team is also in desperate need of cornerback help. While Anthony Harris and Harrison Smith create some threats over the top, Metcalf should have no problem abusing Minnesota’s weak man coverage.
Most of Metcalf’s targets come on deep strikes, which plays into Russell Wilson’s strengths perfectly. However, the second-year receiver is still developing his short to intermediate routes. If the Vikings double Metcalf, they might have a shot at slowing him down. Of course, that opens up opportunities for Tyler Lockett to have a big game.