After a close overtime game against the Broncos, the Chargers face the Seattle Seahawks at home. The Seahawks have overperformed expectations this year with Geno Smith at QB. They’re currently tied for 8th in points per game and tied for 5th in turnovers created. This should be a good matchup to watch as the Chargers defense takes on a fairly conservative yet effective Seahawks offense. Let’s preview the matchups to watch in Sunday’s game.
Mike Williams vs Seattle Secondary
Williams was erased by Patrick Surtain on Monday Night Football and will need to step up against Seattle’s secondary. Keenan Allen is expected to return against Seattle, but Williams might have to be the main target again if he’s limited.
Seattle has an underrated secondary this year with rookies Coby Bryant and Tariq Woolen doing well when starting. Williams has a tough challenge ahead of him on Sunday.
Austin Ekeler vs Seattle Run Defense
Ekeler could be the catalyst for a Chargers win. Seattle ranks 31st in rushing yards given up per game with 165 and let up 100 yards each to Kyler Murray, Taysom Hill, and Alvin Kamara the past couple of weeks.
Ekeler struggled to get it going against the Broncos, but against a terrible run defense, he should be able to take advantage. Isaiah Spiller is expected to have a role after being inactive last game. Depending on the status of Spiller, the Chargers could end up running the Seahawks to 3-4 if all goes right.
Seattle WRs vs Chargers secondary
The Chargers secondary has been in an interesting spot all year with big free agent J.C. Jackson underperforming. There were a couple of breakdowns and miscommunications on Monday night that need to be cleaned up.
Staley confirmed Tuesday that Jackson will be back in the starting rotation after being benched against the Broncos. Jackson himself said that “I’m not really playing to my full potential; it’s kind of upsetting.”
The rest of the Chargers secondary has been solid ranking in the middle of the pack in terms of passing yards given up. Against a good duo in D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, they’ll have a bit more of a challenge than Denver.
Chargers Offensive Line vs Seattle Pass rush
The Chargers offensive line this year has been shaky due to the injuries to Rashawn Slater and Corey Linsley. A big reason the offense couldn’t get going against the Broncos was due to the pressure from the Broncos’ pass rush.
Seattle has a decent pass rush, so it’ll be up to the offensive line to give Herbert the time he needs. Former Charger Uchenna Nwosu leads the Seahawks in sacks and I’m sure he’s looking forward to some revenge. Jamaree Salyer will have to step up after a subpar performance against Denver.
