If the Jets are ever going to get into a shootout in 2020, it will be in Seattle this weekend.
New York’s pass defense unsurprisingly ranks second-to-last in the NFL, allowing opposing quarterbacks to rack up 291 yards per game through the air. The only pass defense worse than the Jets’ this season? That distinction goes to the Seahawks.
Seattle’s pass defense has been putrid in 2020 — and that’s putting it nicely. The Seahawks have allowed 309.8 passing yards per game and rank dead last in the NFL in total passing yards allowed (3,717). Through the first half of 2020, Seattle’s pass defense was statistically the worst in NFL history, allowing an eye-popping 362.1 passing yards per game.
Pete Carroll’s secondary has played a bit better in recent weeks, but the Seahawks are still allowing over 300-plus yards through the air and 26.8 points per game. That doesn’t exactly scream Super Bowl contender, even though Seattle is currently leading the NFC West and is highly likely to make the playoffs.
What makes the Seahawks’ struggles defending the pass so surprising is the abundance of big names on their defense. Quinton Dunbar and Shaquill Griffin are far from slouches at cornerback. Jamal Adams has never been an elite cover safety, but he was expected to bolster Seattle’s efforts against the pass. Instead, he has made most of his impact playing in the box. There’s also Bobby Wagner, who has not been quite as effective covering underneath routes as he has been in the past.
The Seahawks have also lacked a consistent pass rush throughout 2020, allowing quarterbacks ample time to stand in the pocket and go through their progressions. The tide has started to turn a bit in that regard, though, as Seattle recorded six sacks against the Eagles two weeks ago and two sacks and four quarterback hits against the Giants last weekend.
“It’s a coming together of the players, the scheme, the continuity that comes with guys playing together,” Carroll said after the Seahawks’ 23-17 win over Philadelphia, per ESPN’s Brady Henderson. “All aspects of it. It’s been coming. The potential has been here since we saw it back in camp.”
Even with Seattle figuring things out in the pass rush department, its secondary has still left plenty to be desired. That leaves the door open for Sam Darnold to target the likes of Breshad Perriman and, if he plays, Jamison Crowder early and often en route to a big day. Likewise, Russell Wilson, Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf will be able to take advantage of New York’s porous secondary.
Sunday’s matchup is shaping up to be a shootout. As long as both quarterbacks come ready to let loose, may the best team — or best of the worst pass defenses — win.