2 reasons why the Seahawks will win this year’s Super Bowl

Reason No. 2: The Seahawks front seven

There is an old saying in football that still rings true today, even with the explosion in offensive production: Defense wins championships. That statement is something Seattle’s front seven must live by in 2021. After being almost nonexistent early in the year, the Seahawks started to pressure opposing quarterbacks late in the season.

Carlos Dunlap was a big part of the team’s resurgent pass rush. After being traded to Seattle, the 32-year-old defensive end racked up six sacks in the team’s final seven games. His presence in the backfield hurried opposing quarterbacks and allowed his teammates to finish the job. The rest of the line played better when Dunlap was on the field.

Bobby Wagner is the leader of the defense at his linebacker spot. His sideline to sideline speed and range make him a tackling machine. Wagner and the front seven allowed 95.6 yards per game, fifth-fewest in the NFL last year, according to ESPN. Stopping the run forces teams to pass, which means Dunlap and the D-line can pin their ears back and rush the quarterbacks.

Seattle’s secondary is shaky, but some of those issues can be overlooked if the line can get to the passer. The team re-signed Dunlap to a new deal, and the depth across the defensive line signal that the front seven could do some serious damage next season. If they can impose their will on opposing offenses, the Lombardi could make its way back to the northwest.