[r8rh8rmike]

I've kind of purposely kept myself from getting too worked up about this game, but now it's close and all the ramifications (no pun intended) are sinking in. I can't imagine a bigger game all season. We're really in a state of flux right now with no real barometer of how good we are, so this is very likely a defining contest that could make us or break us.

A win not only puts us in a good position to challenge for the division, but would also be a huge boost for the psyche of the team at a time when they need to pull together and prepare for a series of very tough games. It could also serve to damage an already inconsistent, unspectacular Seahawk team who have yet to prove they can repeat what they did last year. I still remember well 2004 when the Seahawks looked unbeatable coming into the first matchup with the Rams at 3-0. We beat them and they were never really the same, going 6-7 the rest of the season. I think this game could have that same impact.

On Sunday we find out if we're for real, if we deserve respect, if we can play through adversity and if we are a possible playoff contender. I can't wait.