Seattle (13-3) is an old-school football team that shows dominance on both sides of the ball. With the best defense in the NFL, they are the only team who can pose a challenge to Denver’s pass-heavy offense.

The Seahawks last went to the Super Bowl in 2006, losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers 21-10. The key to winning the franchise’s first championship will be shutting down Denver’s attack, which ranks first in passing yards per game (340.3).

The Seahawks’ stellar defense starts with Richard Sherman, an All-Pro defensive back with a regular season-best eight interceptions. Sherman, 25, is arguably the most complete corner in the league. He is the lifeblood of a dominant secondary that includes Pro Bowl safeties Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor.

On offense, the Seahawks play smash-mouth football with running back Marshawn Lynch. When the opposing defense gets worn down, they turn to second-year QB Russell Wilson and a deadly play-action pass game. The Seahawks’ balanced attack often results in slow, methodical drives, which gives the defense enough time to rest up before it has to go back on to the field.

For the Seahawks, their Super Bowl hopes hinge on the secondary and their ability to stop Peyton Manning. They will have to play good coverage against Manning’s receivers and force him to make accurate throws in tight spaces. Since the ‘Hawks have played good defense all season, do not expect them to let up on the national stage. I predict the ‘Hawks will win 21-17.