Chiefs, Steelers heating up while Seahawks faltering

Without Earl Thomas, the Seahawks went into Green Bay to face Aaron Rodgers and a Packers team backed into a corner for their playoff lives after both Detroit and Minnesota won in the early slate of games. The Packers jumped all over Seattle in this one. Surprisingly, the Seahawks have really struggled to generate pass-rush of late and on the road against a very good pass blocking offensive line that was the issue again today. Clearly that is a big problem against Rodgers, who had his way with Seattle’s coverage, especially DeShawn Shead.

Seattle failed to record a sack in their past two games and in this one got to Rodgers just once. Obviously it didn’t help Seattle’s cause that Russell Wilson threw a whopping five interceptions and while not all were his fault, it was a dismal performance by the Seahawks’ star quarterback without question while targeting 10 different receiving options – but none effectively. And those receivers didn’t help their quarterback, who was under duress all game, whatsoever. Seattle lost the turnover battle 6-0 and put the defense is really difficult situations over and over.

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While this loss won’t likely knock the Seahawks from the postseason, it very well could cost them a bye with the Lions winning and there should now be much doubt surrounding this organization, especially with their conference troubles on the road. As for Green Bay, with the way Rodgers is playing and hopefully his hamstring and calf issues don’t slow him down, they could be very fierce if they end up in the playoffs.

Plus, it is safe to say that the Packers defense has improved immensely over the past few weeks. Green Bay has outscored their last three opponents 86-36 and is back over .500. But is it too little, too late?