Russell Wilson Vs. RG III

Added on Jan 02, 2013 by Scott in

NFL

No offense to the other Wildcard matchups, but the most intriguing game this weekend is the Seahawks-Redskins. It features a two veteran coaches, a pair of turnover happy defenses and a dynamic rookie duo under center. Of course we’re talking about Russell Wilson and Robert Griffin III, both of whom just finished two of the best first seasons in NFL history. Which of these two scintillating signal-callers has the edge? Let’s take a look.

Russell Wilson (3118 yards, 26 TDs/10 INTs, 489 yards rushing, 4 TDs) – Few quarterbacks, including Griffin, have been as hot as Wilson over the last five weeks. During Seattle’s win streak, he has accounted for 13 scores and only two turnovers. With victories over the Bears and 49ers, he’s proven more than capable of beating elite defenses. On the season, he completed 64.1% of his throws and lost only three fumbles, which is impressive for a mobile quarterback. In addition to his skill and athleticism, Wilson has displayed excellent leadership skills and calmness under pressure. The one knock would be his 3-5 road record. Besides that, he’s been better than advertised, especially for a 5’11″ third-round pick.

Robert Griffin III (3200 yards, 20 TDs/5 INTs, 815 yards rushing, 7 TDs) – Griffin carried the Redskins early in the season as the defense struggled with injuries and schematic breakdowns. After the Week 10 bye, he led the ‘Skins to six wins (Kirk Cousins won one also) while totaling 13 touchdowns and two turnovers. This included five wins over division rivals, two of which came against Dallas. He clearly benefited from fellow rookie Alfred Morris running the ball, as well as a healthy Pierre Garcon, but he never made the huge mistakes that often plague rookie quarterbacks. Despite a lack of talent in the receiving corps and a sometimes shaky offensive line, RG III played far ahead of his 22 years. He’s a deserved Pro Bowler and legit MVP candidate (even though he won’t win).

Both the Seahawks and Redskins run eerily similar offenses, so it will be interesting to watch how each defense attacks them. It’s also important to note that Griffin is still dealing with an ailing knee and has appeared slightly labored in his last two starts. Whatever the result, it should be an entertaining showdown on Sunday in D.C. The home-field should give Griffin and the ‘Skins the edge.