New York Jets vs Seattle Seahawks: Five Players to Watch

Sep 25, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) hands off to running back Matt Forte (22) during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 24-3. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Kansas City, MO, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) hands off to running back Matt Forte (22) during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs won 24-3. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Jets
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– Christine Michael

The retirement of Marshawn Lynch left some uncertainty in the Seahawks’ backfield heading into this season. Out of the shadow of Lynch has emerged Christine Michael. Due to the injury to Thomas Rawls, Michael has been the running back that has taken the starting position and run with it.

This season, Michael has totaled 45 carries, 232 rushing yards, and two touchdowns. Against the 49ers last week, Michael had his best game of the season. In the win, Michael totaled 20 carries, 106 rushing yards, and his two touchdowns.

If Wilson is limited like we assume he will be, running the ball will be important for the Seahawks. The Jets’ defensive front is one of the best in the league, but the Seahawks have a run-first mentality even without Lynch.

Michael will be carrying a big workload like Forte for the Jets. The team that is able to run the ball more effectively might be the one that wins the game due to how good the defenses are. If Wilson is indeed limited, the Jets would be wise to stack the box to ensure that the Seahawks won’t do any damage on the ground with Michael.