The Seattle Seahawks defense looked familiar and dominant in their 13-10 Week 1 victory over the New England Patriots. They'll now play against an Arizona Cardinals offense that surprisingly scored 26 points in their opening win over the Los Angeles Chargers. With quarterback Sam Darnold sidelined, the Seahawks will attempt to lean on Mike Macdonald's defense in this one.
We've identified three potential X-factors for the Seahawks on defense in Week 2.
Byron Murphy II, DT
Byron Murphy II was his disruptive self versus the Patriots, notching three pressures. The Cardinals are expected to struggle with their interior pass protection this season. Heading into Sunday, both Murphy and Leonard Williams appear to have massive matchup advantages. They'll attempt to rattle
Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
Julian Love, S
Veteran safety Julian Love was arguably the Seahawks' best defender in Week 1. Without starters Ty Okada and Nick Emmanwori in the lineup at safety, Love really stepped up to the plate. He recorded an interception and had an elite Pro Football Focus defensive grade of 89.9.
Nehemiah Pritchett, CB
Third-year cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett served as the CB3 in Week 1, fending off Trevon Diggs for now. Pritchett was outstanding, having totally seized his opportunity. The former Auburn standout only allowed 25 receiving yards and also had an interception and a pass breakup.
This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: 3 potential X-factors for the Seahawks defense at Cardinals in Week 2
