The San Francisco 49ers play host to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday afternoon in an NFC West showdown from Levi's Stadium. The 49ers are coming off of a shocking loss to the Bears on the road last week, though a return trip home could shift their momentum. On the other side, momentum is sky high for the Seahawks after springing the upset at home in their opener on Monday Night Football. Last season, Seattle was able to sweep the season series for the second straight season, despite their struggles. San Fransisco will want to grab their first win of the season and their first win in the series since 2019, though it won't be easy with Seattle riding their high.
Many thought the Seahawks could be one of the NFL's worst teams this season, though a win in primetime last week against the Broncos at home showed the league that this isn't a group teams want to take lightly. Going on the road against a divisional foe could prove to be slightly more challenging this week, though momentum is a wild thing. The Seahawks haven't lost to the 49ers since all the way back in 2019 and even though the last few seasons haven't been filled with success, there is something about this rivalry that brings out the best in the Seahawks. Starting 2-0 would be impressive and would turn some heads, though it won't be easy to make it five in a row against San Francisco.
Like many teams heading into week two, the Seahawks do have concerning injuries as they prepare for the road contest. The defensive side has been hit hard, especially with Jamal Adams (quadricep) going onto the IR af ter last week's injury. With two other cornerbacks ruled out and another two questionable, the thinning of the secondary could be problematic. A healthy offense, including Kenneth Walker III likely being in the lineup, could give them the injection they need on the road in this one.
NFC Defensive Player of the Week vibing. ??#GoHawks x @UchennaN_42 pic.twitter.com/RuWHCWlfJt
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) September 15, 2022
Despite coming away with the win, Seattle's offense left quite a bit to be desired last week. They barely reached 250 yards of total offense and with only 177 yards through the air with Geno Smith at the helm, it could be a challenge. The 49ers' defense is one of the best in the league, even despite last week's loss and Seattle will need to find a way to find success. Moving the ball on the ground was beneficial for the Bears last week against San Francisco and with Rashad Penny in the backfield, Seattle will rely heavily on him to help control the clock as well.
Defensively, Seattle let the Broncos move the ball with ease, especially through the air. While the 49ers might be slightly inexperienced on the offensive side, especially their passing attack, the injuries to an already concerning secondary is only more reason to worry. Forcing turnovers was key last week while bending but not breaking in the red zone was crucial a s well. If they can do the same against San Francisco, it'll give them a fighting chance in this one, though it will be dificult for them to duplicate that level of luck.