Preview: Indianapolis Colts vs. Seattle Seahawks

Football is finally here, Colts fans. After months of eager anticipation, we’ve now arrived at regular season action for the Indianapolis Colts. Week1 figures to be a good measuring stick game for the Colts against Russell Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks.

Without further ado, let’s dive into Colts vs. Seahawks from both sides with a final prediction.

Seahawks

Offensive DVOA (2020) = 5th, Defensive DVOA (2020) = 16th, Overall DVOA (2020) = 5th

Consistently one of the best teams in the NFL over the past decade, the Seahawks are trying to bounce back atop the NFC’s elite. With Wilson under center, including a new offensive coordinator in former Los Angeles Rams assistant Shane Waldron, expectations are sky-high for Seattle’s offense. Expected to run a more up-tempo, air it out scheme, Seattle will rely heavily on Wilson to create points.

For the Colts, slowing down their dynamic duo at wide receiver is going to be a tough task. DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett are one of the best 1-2 punches in the NFL, and Indy having no Xavier Rhodes is a gut-punch. Metcalf will likely be lined up against Rock Ya-Sin, which could easily decide this game. Meanwhile, expect Kenny Moore to shadow Tyler Lockett throughout.

This will come down to the Seahawks’ offense against the Colts’ defense. If the front four can get consistent pressure and harass Wilson, making him uncomfortable and second-guessing his reads, this will lean in the home team’s favor. If Wilson carves up this secondary, which is probable without pressure, it will be a long day for Indianapolis.

Colts

Offensive DVOA (2020) = 12th, Defensive DVOA (2020) = 7th, Overall DVOA (2020) = 10th

All eyes will be on Carson Wentz for obvious reasons. As the Colts’ hopeful long-term answer at quarterback, a now endless carousel after Andrew Luck’s retirement, Indianapolis is betting on a big bounce-back from Wentz reuniting with head coach Frank Reich. If Went gets off to a hot start, Indianapolis will be able to be perfectly balanced while not overusing their rushing attack. I would expect Reich to test the Seahawks’ weak passing defense late in the game, once Wentz is more comfortable.

Speaking of the Colts’ power run game, Jonathan Taylor is poised to take the leap to superstar running back in 2021. Against the Seahawks, Indy will ride Taylor early to see if they can establish his presence. If all goes well, Taylor could be in line for a 125-plus yard day on the ground.

As mentioned in the Seahawks section, Indianapolis’ defense will decide this game. Expected to have a more consistent pass rush thanks in large part to first-round pick Kwity Paye now alongside DeForest Buckner, it will be crucial to win the trench battle to make Wilson hesitant.

GM Chris Ballard has built the Colts to bully opposing teams in the trenches. That’s exactly how this game will need to be won in Week 1.

Prediction

I’m expecting Colts vs. Seahawks to be one of the most entertaining matchups during the NFL’s opening weekend. Fairly even matched on both sides, this game will come down to the wire late.

I have a hard time deciding who wins this one, but I’m going to have to roll with Seattle thanks to Wilson and their aerial attack. Missing Rhodes is massive, especially against a freak athlete like Metcalf.

Seattle will put up some points if the defensive line doesn’t dominate. The question is, would Wentz be able to keep up in a potential shootout?

Seahawks = 27-23