The offensive line for the Seattle Seahawks will be a key piece of the puzzle if they want to come away with a win over the division rival Arizona Cardinals in week one of the regular season.
The Seahawks are starting a rookie quarterback in Russell Wilson and will need the protection in order for him to get comfortable and find a rhythm with his receivers. With so much being put on this young quarterback, the line will have to be strong and give Wilson the time in the pocket he needs to find the best option.
Along with pass blocking for Wilson, the line will have to become a big presence in the trenches for the running game. With star running back Marshawn Lynch listed as questionable, another rookie might be relying on the offensive line to create holes to run through. Rookie back Robert Turbin is expected to get a majority of the carries if Lynch is unable to play.
The offensive line will be the most important part of the offense this first game. It will give Wilson the chance to gain confidence in his first regular season start as well as get the experience with his receiving unit.
The offensive line is often overlooked and shadowed by the skill positions such as the running back and quarterback but for both of those positions to have success the offensive line must do their job.
If the line protects the young rookie and opens up a path for the backs, Seattle will have an easy win over a division rival.