Jaguars: 3 matchups vs. Seahawks that will decide the game

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14). Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf (14). Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /
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OT Cam Robinson (74) of the Jacksonville Jaguars ​at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville. [Bob Self/Florida Times-Union] /

Things can change in a heartbeat in the NFL, or at least from one season to the other. The Seattle Seahawks were among the top teams in the NFC for several years but they are currently in the cellar of their division. It doesn’t look like they will leave anytime soon when you take into account that the Los Angeles Rams and the Arizona Cardinals are some of the best teams in the league right now.

Back when the 2021 schedule came out, the Jaguars looked overmatched. However, the Seahawks have won just one more game than Jacksonville this season and will be without quarterback Russell Wilson. Even though Seattle still has several playmakers, such as safety Jamal Adams and wide receiver DK Metcalf, the Jags match up favorably. In fact, analyst Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Media believes Jacksonville is the more talented team right now.

Having said that, talent and matchups won’t matter if the Jaguars can capitalize on the opportunity. They are a 4-point favorite ahead of the game and can earn their second victory of the season if they win these 3 matchups.

1. Jaguars’ offensive line vs. Seahawks’ defensive front.

The Jaguars’ offensive line has done a good job of protecting quarterback Trevor Lawrence in spite of not having elite talent up front. The unit has allowed just 10 sacks this season, one of the lowest figures in the league.

Second-year offensive guard Ben Bartch left the game against the Dolphins with a concussion but should be able to go in Week 8. The Jaguars’ offensive line will be tasked with slowing down defensive end Darrell Taylor and Benson Mayowa.