The Seattle Seahawks are still fighting for a chance to compete in the NFC Playoffs by earning a Wildcard spot.
After beating the Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle is technically in a position to secure a playoff spot in Week 17, though a lot would have to happen to make that a reality.
But two of Seattle’s top offensive weapons have been dealing with injuries, with Geno Smith and Kenneth Walker sidelined as of late.
A playoff berth is clinched in Week 17 if…
- The Seahawks beat the Titans and Steelers (Weeks 16 and 17)
- The Packers lose to the Panthers (Week 16)
- The Vikings lose to the Lions (Week 16)
- The Packers beat the Vikings (Week 17)
The only obvious hang-up is the 2-12 Panthers beating Green Bay on Sunday. Everything else is distinctly possible. If Seattle wins two games and the Packers lose one, that’ll give the Seahawks a two-game lead over Green Bay with one week to go. Minnesota losing two straight and Seattle winning two straight would similarly put them two games back of the Seahawks.
The Seattle Seahawks Could Also Be Eliminated In Week 17
On the other side of the coin, Seattle could be eliminated in Week 17.
Here’s what would have to happen.
- The Seahawks lose to the Titans and Steelers
- The Packers beat the Panthers
- The Vikings beat the Lions
Unlike the playoff-clinching scenario, the Packers-Vikings game in Week 17 would be irrelevant if these other results happen. Seattle would be 7-9, the Packers would be 7-8, and the Vikings would be 8-7. In this instance, either a Vikings win would get them to 9-7 and two clear of the Seahawks, or a Packers win would get them to 8-8 and Seattle wouldn’t be able to win a tiebreaker over Green Bay even if they both finished 8-9.
Regardless, if the Seahawks win out, they have a strong chance of making the playoffs.
Seahawks Get Major Injury News From Geno Smith And Kenneth Walker
The biggest positive when it comes to this late season push?
According to Adam Schefter, both Geno Smith and Kenneth Walker — who have battled injuries as of late — will be active on Sunday vs. the Titans.
While Drew Lock was impressive against the Eagles, the Seahawks are sticking with Smith as the starting signal caller and he’s proven he can win big games.
Kenneth Walker may be been more notable. Walker has been great this year when he has been healthy. He has played in only 12 games but has produced at a high level when he’s on the field. The Seahawks running back has 720 yards and seven touchdowns on 176 carries over 12 games.
If the Seahawks are going to make a late run, they will need these two key offensive pieces healthy and productive. Sunday will be a good test to see where they stand.
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