I don’t know. I don’t think any franchise in the NFL has gotten more attention from the national media over the last five years than the Seahawks. As you pointed out, I think it comes down to Watson being new and fresh.
I see zero evidence that the defense is worse. The core are all squarely in their primes. Wagner looked great in the preseason. Chancellor hardly played, but unlike last year he's been there throughout training camp. I'm not going to assume a decline until we see it in regular season games.
I think this is all about Siliga. Hill is battling Bryant/Jefferson for a spot. I'm also surprised to see anyone down on Rubin. He's the best 3 tech we've had in the Carroll era.
I'm sure a lot of people said this when LeBron went to the Heat. Instead what happened is TV ratings went through the roof. It's always great for sports leagues when there's a true villain.
Wilson playing perfect football has enabled Seattle to blowout their opponents. I think if he's merely very good, they can beat anyone. Unless you just have zero faith in this defense to slow down the better offenses they'll have to face.