Seattle Seahawks vs Buffalo Bills Picks and Predictions October 27th 2024

Bills’ New Addition Amari Cooper Ready to Boost Offense vs. Seahawks

Amari Cooper is already making waves in Buffalo just one game into his tenure. Acquired from Cleveland mid-last week, Cooper hit the field quickly, recording four catches for 66 yards and a touchdown in his debut against the Tennessee Titans. Now, with a full week of practice alongside quarterback Josh Allen, the Pro Bowl receiver has his sights set on enhancing the Buffalo Bills‘ passing attack when they face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

Cooper’s Immediate Impact and Future Potential

Even with limited preparation, Cooper’s arrival provided a significant boost to a Bills offense that had been struggling in the air. With Allen averaging just 193 passing yards per game through the first six games, Cooper’s influence was immediately apparent as Allen threw for 323 yards in the 34-10 victory over the Titans. Buffalo now leads the AFC East with a 5-2 record and is looking to extend its winning streak to three.

“Guys of (Cooper’s) caliber, they don’t need a lot,” Allen commented on his new teammate. “They go out there, give him a clear mind, let him go play. That’s what he did … finding zones, finding windows.”

Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott was also impressed by Cooper’s performance on such short notice. “It’s good to have (Cooper) here,” McDermott said. “To come out on day five here and execute like he did was impressive.”

The Seahawks’ Response and Injury Concerns

Seattle, which sits atop the NFC West with a 4-3 record, enters Sunday’s game off a 34-14 win over Atlanta that snapped a three-game losing streak. Kenneth Walker III played a major role, despite battling flu symptoms. The running back recorded a rushing touchdown and caught a 17-yard pass for a score, celebrating his 24th birthday in memorable style. “Two touchdowns on his birthday, that was sick,” remarked quarterback Geno Smith.

However, the Seahawks’ offense could face challenges against the Bills’ strong defense, especially with star receiver DK Metcalf nursing a knee injury (Grade 1 MCL strain). Metcalf’s status remains uncertain, with head coach Mike Macdonald noting Metcalf’s determination to play: “We know DK. He’s going to probably do anything humanly possible to play in this game.” Additionally, Walker’s illness has limited his practice, along with defensive end Leonard Williams (knee) and cornerbacks Tre Brown and Nehemiah Pritchett, both dealing with ankle injuries.

Injury Updates for the Bills

Buffalo is also dealing with key injuries this week. Wide receiver Curtis Samuel (pectoral), tight end Dawson Knox (ankle), defensive linemen DaQuan Jones (foot) and Dawuane Smoot (groin), and linebacker Terrel Bernard (ankle/pec) have all missed practice time. Cooper’s arrival provides a welcome solution to the Bills’ wide receiver depth issues as they manage these injuries.

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Key Matchups and Implications for the Game

1. Amari Cooper vs. Seattle’s Secondary
   Cooper’s route-running skills will be pivotal against a Seattle secondary dealing with injuries. With an entire week to work with Allen, Cooper’s presence could open up Buffalo’s deep game and make it challenging for the Seahawks’ defense to keep up.
2. Geno Smith’s Passing Game vs. Bills’ Defense
   Smith faces a Buffalo defense that ranks second in the league in point differential (+63) and has been particularly effective at containing the pass. If Metcalf is out or limited, Smith may lean more heavily on Walker and other targets like Tyler Lockett, but they’ll need to find ways to create separation against Buffalo’s secondary.
3. Buffalo’s Momentum vs. Seattle’s Home Advantage
   The Bills will bring significant momentum into this matchup, bolstered by Cooper’s addition and back-to-back wins. However, Seattle’s home field is notoriously tough, and the Seahawks will be eager to protect their lead in the NFC West.

With Cooper poised for an even bigger role and the Seahawks navigating injuries, this matchup holds high stakes for both teams. The Bills seek to solidify their AFC East lead, while the Seahawks hope to stay on top of the NFC West, making Sunday’s game a pivotal clash for two playoff hopefuls.