Playing eight times, twice in the playoffs, since the 2010 season the Seattle Seahawks closely resembled a Carolina Panthers divisional rival. Last year was the first time the two teams on opposite sides of the country hadn’t faced off in five consecutive seasons, but the rivalry renews on Sunday.
Both teams are in similar circumstances vying for a wildcard playoff berth as their respective division leaders have a firm grasp on the lead. Six games remain and the Seahawks trail Los Angeles by four and a half, having already lost both games against their divisional opponent. Carolina trails NFC South leader New Orleans, who they face twice over the final three weeks, by three games.