Inside the matchup: Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers

With the loss against the Arizona Cardinals, the Seattle Seahawks need to beat the San Francisco 49ers next week in order to win the division. Unfortunately, the injuries suffered at running back this week will make that very difficult. Losing Rashaad Penny (torn ACL) against the Rams was bad enough but to lose both Chris Carson (hip) and C.J. Prosise (broken arm) against the Cardinals could be too much to overcome. Since all three of the injuries are reported to be season ending, the Seahawks will need to find replacements between now and next week’s game. Alfred Blue and former Seahawk Robert Turbin worked out for the team last week in an effort to find a replacement for Rashaad Penny. It will be interesting to see who the Seahawks can find on short notice to play. Win or lose, they are still in the playoffs so their season will continue past next week regardless of the outcome.

The Seahawks still have the advantage at quarterback. #10 Jimmy Garoppolo has played better of late and has 27 touchdowns to go with 13 interceptions on the season. Russell Wilson will have to both run and pass well in this game for Seattle to have a chance. He will also need a better performance from his offensive line than he received this past week.

The Seahawks look to have the advantage at receiving this game. The 49ers have the better depth at the position, as thirteen different players have a receiving touchdown. #17 Emmanuel Sanders and tight end #85 George Kittle continue to lead the team in yards per game. Seattle’s receiving core is healthy with Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf leading the way for the Seahawks.

San Francisco‘s running game has changed since the last time they played Seattle. #31 Raheem Mostert has emerged and surpassed both Matt Breida and Tevin Coleman in total rushing yards. He also has a rushing touchdown in each of his last five games. Advantage 49ers.

At defense, San Francisco continues to have the best pass defense in the NFL. They are second to only the New England Patriots in fewest yards allowed per game. With Seattle’s running game a huge question mark going into next week the 49ers have to be considered the favorite.

Three keys to the game for Seattle:

Find three free agent running backs.

Sign three free agent running backs.

Hope Jadeveon Clowney is healthy enough to play.