Seahawks fans hoping to see the familiar sight of running back Marshawn Lynch ripping opposing defenses in the team’s season opener on Sunday in Arizona may have to wait another week.
Head coach Pete Carroll announced at his weekly press conference on Wednesday that Lynch was still dealing with the back spasms that kept him out of the final two preseason games and would be evaluated throughout the rest of the week, leaving open the possibility he would not play.
If Lynch, who recorded the first 1,000 yard rushing season in six years for the franchise in 2011, is unable to go, rookie fourth round draft pick Robert Turbin will likely take the bulk of the carries in his first regular season NFL action. He finished the preseason with 165 yards and one touchdown on 38 carries.
Rookie quarterback Russell Wilson will make his regular season debut for the Seahawks as well, and will be matched against an Arizona group that returns nine of its starters from last year. Wilson’s playmakers on the outside have been making news as well, with tight end Kellen Winslow released earlier in the week and wide receiver Golden Tate sidelined with an injury he sustained in the final preseason game against the Oakland Raiders.The remaining tight ends are former USC star Anthony McCoy and last year’s prized free agent signing Zach Miller, who has dealt with concussions and also been used out of necessity in pass protection more often than most expected.
But with a more seasoned offensive line and the possibility of a dominant running game if Lynch is healthy, along with the quick development of Wilson, could see the passing game make strides in 2012.
The defense will face an Arizona offense that is also already dealing with its share of injuries, as Levi Brown and Jeremy Bridges are both on injured reserve to begin the season and will not play.
The Arizona offense will be led by quarterback John Skelton, who somewhat surprisingly overtook Kevin Kolb to win the starting job and becomes the fourth starter at the position in as many years for the Cardinals.
Running backs Beenie Wells and Ryan Williams are both healthy to begin the season and the always dangerous Larry Fitzgerald will also present a stiff test for the heralded Seattle secondary.
The Cardinals have taken seven of the last 11 meetings, including a 23-20 overtime win to finish the 2011 season.
Official Seahawks viewing party at Earl’s in Bellevue for opener
The team’s mascot, Blitz, will be on hand with the Sea Gals cheerleaders at Earl’s in Bellevue (700 Bellevue Way) from 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. to take photos, win raffle prizes and play free games.
There will also be giveaways for autographed footballs, team jerseys and hats and Blue Thunder will also be on hand for an appearance.
