The Seattle Seahawks come into this crucial matchup against the Chicago Bears with an 8-7 record and their playoff hopes hanging in the balance. After dropping two consecutive games, including a narrow 27-24 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings, the Seahawks find themselves needing a win to keep pace in the NFC playoff race. This game is pivotal for Seattle, as a victory could improve their wildcard chances and provide much-needed momentum heading into the season’s final week. Led by quarterback Geno Smith, the Seahawks’ offense has shown flashes of being a top-tier unit, particularly through the air. Smith has amassed over 3,500 passing yards on the season, with standout performances from wide receiver DK Metcalf and rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Against the Vikings, Smith threw for 314 yards and three touchdowns, but his two interceptions proved costly. The Seahawks’ aerial attack, which averages 244.5 passing yards per game, remains their primary weapon. However, their ground game, led by Kenneth Walker III, has been inconsistent, producing just 91.9 rushing yards per contest. Establishing the run will be crucial against a Bears defense that has struggled against versatile offenses. Defensively, Seattle has been middle-of-the-pack, allowing 22.7 points per game. The secondary, led by star safety Quandre Diggs and rookie cornerback Devon Witherspoon, has made notable plays but has also been prone to lapses in coverage. The defensive front, anchored by Uchenna Nwosu and Dre’Mont Jones, has been effective at generating pressure in spurts but will need to dominate the line of scrimmage against a Chicago offensive line riddled with injuries. The Seahawks have also struggled to stop the run at times, a potential vulnerability if the Bears look to lean on their ground attack. Special teams could play a key role in this matchup, with kicker Jason Myers remaining a reliable option in close games. Field position battles and execution on punt and kick returns may tilt the game’s momentum, especially in the frigid December weather at Soldier Field. Seattle’s road form has been impressive, with a 4-1-1 ATS record this season, showing resilience and composure in hostile environments. This will be critical as they aim to rebound from their recent losses. The Seahawks are 1-2 ATS when favored by at least four points this season, suggesting that while they often win in these situations, they have struggled to cover larger spreads. Head coach Pete Carroll’s focus will be on cleaning up mistakes and ensuring his team starts fast. Seattle cannot afford turnovers or slow starts, as these have plagued them in previous losses. Look for Smith to target Metcalf early and often, with tight end Noah Fant serving as a security blanket in critical situations. On defense, the key will be pressuring rookie quarterback Caleb Williams into mistakes and containing his mobility. In summary, the Seahawks enter this game with everything to play for. A disciplined, mistake-free performance is essential to solidify their playoff hopes and assert themselves as a dangerous team heading into January.