Here are the three key matchups when the Seahawks (5-2) face the Falcons (1-6) at 1 p.m. Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Seahawks DE Jadeveon Clowney vs. Falcons RT Kaleb McGary: Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowl player from South Carolina, was acquired in a trade with Houston in September. This season he has recorded 15 tackles, three quarterback hits, one sack, a forced fumble and his first career interception. "Clowney has been really productive in being in the backfield," Seattle coach Pete Carroll said. "He's been all around the quarterback. He hasn't had a bunch of sacks yet, but he's had big plays and he's been a big factor on the quarterback. Knocking balls down. Intercepting a pass and returning it for a touchdown. He's a real penetrator and he makes things happen. He's been a really great addition for us." McGary is looking to bounce back after struggling against Rams edge rusher Dante Fowler last week.
Seahawks MLB Bobby Wagner vs. Falcons C Alex Mack: Wagner, who's is tied for second in the NFL with 69 tackles, is one of the top linebackers in the league. Mack will have to identify him to help set the blocking schemes for the front. "They have a lot of guys that get after the ball really quickly," Mack said. "Bobby Wagner, being the (middle linebacker), has a great nose for the ball. Gets around really well. He's one of the best in the business. So, it's definitely a challenge for the line up front." Wagner is a five-time Pro Bowler and four-team All-Pro.
Seahawks RB Chris Carson vs. Falcons LB Deion Jones: Carson, who played at Parkview High before landing at Oklahoma State, is off to another strong start after rushing for 1,1,51 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He rushed 139 times for 569 yards and two touchdowns this season. "He had three great games in a row," Carroll said. "We didn't quite get him as much production this last week running the football, but he still carried the ball 20-something times. He's been just a centerpiece along with Russell (Wilson) in our offense." Jones led the way as the defense slowed down Rams running back Todd Gurley last week. The Falcons used Jones on a few A-gap blitzes to stop Gurley before he could get rolling.
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