One of the biggest things regarding a topic that makes me talk about it is my perception of a team compared to the general publics perception. Its part of the reason I talk about the Niners, Seahawks, and Broncos so much. They're the leagues top teams and as such, everyone seems to have an opinion about em. Since the beginning of the season, I've held on to the belief that the Seahawks fit the superbowl blueprint better than any other team. Infact, I think I believe they fit the superbowl blue-print better than any team I've seen in recent years. The Broncos on the other hand are probably the best passing offense we've ever seen. But best passing offense does not equate to best team, and its going to take a complete team effort to win the superbowl. Here are the most important things I'm considering for this game:
Seahawks Defense vs Broncos Offense
Pressure on Manning is the key - I think this applies to most teams, but against Manning it will provide the greatest return. The common theme every time the Broncos have lost or been close to losing is pressure on the QB. The Broncos O-line did a great job of recognizing the Patriots' blitzes, but at the same time, if you need to send extra guys just to be able to get pressure, Manning will tear it apart. But the talent of Seattle's defense is on a different planet compared to New England. They have the skills, talent, and speed to beat even the best offensive lines with a 4-man rush. You might not think much of it after the SF game, but a mobile QB changes the pass-rush game. Against a mobile QB, not only is the D-line's job doubled by having to spy the QB, but an extra linebacker needs to be used as a spy. Against a statue like Manning, the 4-man rush can be much more effective at getting to the QB, and the linebackers' jobs become much simpler. Combine that with the best defensive backfield in the NFL and its almost certain they will force mistakes. This is the reason they lead the league in interceptions. Players like Manning, Brees, Brady, Rodgers can always pick up the blitz and torch you for it. When you have an effective 4-man rush, you essentially leave no glaring holes for these great QBs to exploit.
Broncos Defense vs Seahawks Offense
Shut down the running game and don't give them any big plays over the time. Those are the 2 keys to beating Seattle. The engine of the team is Lynch. As long as Lynch was getting shut down in the Niners game, Seattle struggled to move the ball. Lynch's TD run was their first touchdown for the seahawks and that really established the run game. When they pound the running game and the safties start to creep, thats when Seattle hits you with the long-ball. If the front 7 of Denver can hold strong, and the back 4 and keep everything underneath, Seattle will have to change its gameplan, and thats when they will be backed up on their heels. Denver had a great pass-rush against NE, but getting to Wilson alone will not win the game. Wilson can make plays outside the pocket, so when Denver does bring the extra guy, Wilson can buy enough time to burn you.
I think ultimately, while Denver has one of the best passing offenses of all time, they aren't as complete of a team as Seattle. I think this game will resemble the Colts-Broncos game, where Manning was pressured and made uncomfortable. On the other side I think Wilson's creativity will be enough to put up consistent points on Denver. This defense is one of the best I've seen in a long time. I'm picking the Seahawks by 4.
I would also like to note that I'm actually very confident about my pick, and even as a broke-ass student, I'm think I'm going to put down $100 on the Seahawks, which is alot for me.
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