The Seahawks need help getting to the playoffs. They could win out, of course, and put themselves in a position of strength. But any team winning its last seven games (which is what Seattle would be doing including Thursday’s win over the Packers) is not overly realistic.
On Sunday, however, the Panthers gave Seattle a little help. Carolina not only lost to the Lions but it was the way they lost that was surprising. And something they did to themselves. Kicker Graham Gano missed an extra point and a field goal. If he would have made the field goal, Carolina has the lead after a late touchdown pass by Cam Newton.