Russell Wilson named Seahawks' starting QB for Friday

After two weeks of picking apart third- and fourth-string defenses, Seahawks rookie quarterback Russell Wilson will finally get a chance to play with the first team.

Wilson will start against Kansas City on Friday at Arrowhead Stadium, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The move means Matt Flynn, who started the previous two games, will be most likely be coming off the bench.

The game against Kansas City marks preseason game No. 3, which is generally the most important one of the NFL exhibition season. It's often seen as a dress rehearsal with starting units playing well into the second half.

By giving Wilson the start against the Chiefs, it seems that coach Pete Carroll is acknowledging that the third round draft pick from Wisconsin might give the Seahawks the best chance to win in 2012. And he's giving Wilson a shot to prove that.

Wilson has started the second half in each of the Seahawks' first two preseason games and has impressed each time. In 3.5 total quarters of action against Tennessee and Denver, Wilson has completed 66.7 percent of his passes (22 of 33) for 279 yards and three touchdowns while only throwing one interception. Wilson has also scrambled eight times for 92 yards.

With starting wide receivers Doug Baldwin and Sidney Rice on the bench so far this preseason, Flynn has struggled. The first team offense has yet to score a touchdown this preseason and Flynn's numbers haven't been eye-popping. In two games, Flynn has completed 17 of 26 passes for only 102 yards.

If Wilson shines in Kansas City on Friday, don't be shocked to see him under center when the Seahawks open the regular season at Arizona on Sept. 9.

For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis from Seahawks blogger John Breech follow @JohnBreech and @CBSSportsNFLSEA.