[brid autoplay=”true” video=”856014″ player=”23231″ title=”5%20players%20under%20the%20most%20pressure%20during%20NFL%20Week%201″ duration=”148″ description=”Week 1 of the 2021 NFL season is nearing. It starts in just the matter of days when the defending champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Dallas Cowboys on “Thursday Night Football.” That game with signify the return of Dak Prescott from injury.Sunday’s games include a tremendous matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Cleveland Browns in the AFC. Is Baker Mayfield going to be up to the task of taking on Patrick Mahomes? Here, we look at five players under the most pressure in Week 1 of the NFL season.” uploaddate=”2021-09-02″ thumbnailurl=”//cdn.brid.tv/live/partners/17660/thumb/856014_t_1630626016.png” contentUrl=”//cdn.brid.tv/live/partners/17660/sd/856014.mp4″]
The Indianapolis Colts host the Seattle Seahawks to kick off their respective 2021 NFL seasons in a matchup feating Russell Wilson and Carson Wentz.
Our Seahawks vs Colts preview examines Sunday’s game info, key matchups that will decide this game and delivers odds and predictions.
Click here to see where the Seahawks and Colts land in our Week 1 NFL power rankings
Let’s examine the top matchups for Sunday’s Seahawks vs Colts game.
Both of these teams experienced some quarterback drama this offseason. In Seattle, the Seahawks didn’t quite know if Wilson would commit to the franchise or not. He called out the front office, demanded changes and seemingly came close to landing in Chicago. Ultimately, he remains the Seahawks’ quarterback and that makes them a Super Bowl contender.
Click here for Sportsnaut’s Seattle Seahawks preview
Once Philip Rivers walked away, the Colts knew they needed to find their next signal-caller. Wentz always seemed like their desired fit and it didn’t take long for something to come together. But there were bumps, most notably foot surgery and a COVID-19 scare, along the way. In the end, he’s starting in Week 1.
Advantage: Russell Wilson
Under normal circumstances, the Indianapolis Colts arguably boasts one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. We could even see this squad reclaim its recognition later in the year, but we’re not at that point. Quenton Nelson is weeks removed from foot surgery and Ryan Kelly (elbow) missed time in camp. Far more concerning, the Colts are starting their third-string left tackle.
Check out our Indianapolis Colts season forecast
On the other side, Seattle’s pass rush is a big question. Carlos Dunlap didn’t look good in 2020, but he’s just a year removed from playing at an elite level. Darrell Taylor, the Seahawks’ 2020 second-round pick, has the potential to create some problems but this will also be his first NFL game. Ultimately, it might take an X-factor to swing this matchup.
Advantage: Indianapolis Colts
One great thing about this Seahawks vs Colts matchup, wide receivers galore. We’re keeping a close eye on Michael Pittman Jr, who could be poised for a breakout season. But the popcorn is being saved for Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf against the Colts’ secondary.
Find out where the Colts and Seahawks start in our Week 1 NFL defense rankings
Advantage: Seattle Seahawks
The bottom line: It’s fair to say the Seahawks vs Colts game is flying under the radar. It’s not the marquee matchup on Sunday, but there is a lot at stake for both teams. Seattle needs a hot start with the NFC West set to be ridiculously competitive and Indianapolis must silence some critics entering the season.