NFL Playoffs: Each team's X-factor and red flag

NFL Playoffs: Each team’s X-factor and red flag

Dec 28, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick (center) picks up his red flag on the field against the Buffalo Bills in the second half at Gillette Stadium. Buffalo Bills defeated the Patriots 17-9. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 5

Feb 5, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks secondary players of the Legion of Boom at Super Bowl XLVIII victory parade on 4th Avenue. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Seattle caught lightning in a bottle last year. Is the window still open?

Seattle Seahawks X Factor

The Seahawks fielded a dominant defense in 2013, culminating in a thorough dismantling of Peyton Manning and the Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII. Early season struggles have given way to late season dominance. The Seahawks once again ended up with the No. 1 overall defense by a significant margin.

Most importantly, they seem to be playing with an edge again. They withstood several early season challenges from teams who wanted to knock off the world champs, and have reestablished the Legion of Boom. Points are hard to come by, and when the 12th man gets into it at home, there may be no single more dominant unit in the entire NFL.

Seattle Seahawks Red Flag

Can Seattle rely on Beast Mode one more time? If not, they will make life easier on the Green Bay defense.

Marshawn Lynch got his share of yards again this year, finishing with 1,306 yards rushing and 13 touchdowns. Seattle’s offense certainly centers around Lynch and a dominant rushing attack.

However, some troubling trends have emerged. Lynch has been held to under 90 yards in 10 games this season, and 91 in another. Lynch can disappear at times, leaving the Seattle offense short handed. Green Bay handled DeMarco Murray. Will they handle Lynch?

Next: Can Andrew Luck ascend to the throne he seems destined to occupy?

Home/Green Bay Packers