Tomorrow it gets real for the Seattle Seahawks, who have done well so far against the dregs of the AFC, starting out the season 2-0. This week they will play host to the Miami Dolphins, who are the first playoff contender on their 2024 regular season schedule.
We've got several superlative-worthy matchups to watch this week, even with Tua Tagovailoa on IR. Here are several we will be keeping an eye on Sunday afternoon.
Riq Woolen vs. Tyreek Hill
Truthfully nobody stops Tyreek Hill one-on-one and it will take a total team effort - or at least the entire secondary working together - to contain him. However, if they do decide to play man against Hill, their best option is third-year cornerback Riq Woolen, who just might be able to match Hill's speed in the open field. Those who have tried haven't fared well, though. Hill led the NFL with nearly 1,800 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023.
On the other hand, Woolen has some remarkable athletic gifts of his own and he's off to a special start this year. So far Woolen has only allowed two catches on eight targets, allowing 14 total yards and a passer rating of zero in coverage. Woolen is also up to nine career interceptions in just 35 games.
DK Metcalf vs. Jalen Ramsey
When the field is flipped we'll get to see another extra-spicy wide receiver vs. cornerback matchup when Seahawks star DK Metcalf lines up across from former NFC West rival Jalen Ramsey. While there's no doubting that Ramsey is one of the best corners in the game (his new contract is proof enough), Metcalf has gotten the better of him more often than not in their previous battles.
Leonard Williams vs. Dolphins iOL
So far this season Seattle's most-disruptive lineman has been Leonard Williams. Heading into Week 3 he has already totaled 1.5 sacks and eight quarterback hits, which ranks second in the league behind emerging Detroit Lions superstar Aidan Hutchinson. Around the league, only Poona Ford, Cameron Heyward and Dexter Lawrence have graded out higher among interior defensive linemen so far this season. Miami's interior consisting of Robert Jones, Aaron Brewer and Liam Eichenberg may have little choice but to double team Williams, opening opportunities for Byron Murphy II and others.
Mike Macdonald vs. Mike McDaniel
Perhaps the most compelling matchup will be on the sidelines, where we'll be treated to a showdown between the hottest young defensive head coach in the league against the brightest young offensive head coach in the league. McDaniel missing his starting quarterback should give Macdonald the edge he needs to win out, but we shouldn't expect anything to come easy. This may be an Xs and Os battle for all time.
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