As the Seattle Seahawks prepare for their highly anticipated rematch against the San Francisco 49ers this Sunday, head coach Mike Macdonald faces a perplexing question: how much weight should he give to the game film from their previous meeting just a month ago, considering the significant changes both rosters have undergone since then?
The Seahawks suffered a disappointing 36-24 loss to the 49ers in Week 6 at Lumen Field, marking their sixth consecutive defeat in the rivalry. Even without star running back Christian McCaffrey, who has since returned from injury, San Francisco managed to rack up an impressive 228 rushing yards and a 6.9-yard average against Seattle’s defense.
Seahawks’ Lineup Overhaul
Heading into Sunday’s clash at Levi’s Stadium, the Seahawks’ starting lineup will look noticeably different, with some changes aimed at bolstering their chances while others may prove detrimental.
Defensive Adjustments
Seattle’s defense has undergone a major overhaul, particularly at the inside linebacker position. The surprising release of leading tackler Tyrel Dodson this week, replaced by rookie Tyrice Knight, completes the in-season transformation that began with the acquisition of Ernest Jones IV from the Tennessee Titans last month.
The secondary also looks more formidable, with Pro Bowl cornerback Riq Woolen healthy after missing the first 49ers game and rookie Josh Jobe supplanting Tre Brown as the third cornerback. Rotational defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris, acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the return of first-round pick Byron Murphy II at defensive tackle further bolster the front seven.
Offensive Line Woes
On the offensive side, the Seahawks’ line took another hit with the sudden retirement of center Connor Williams, thrusting rookie Olu Oluwatimi into the starting role. However, the potential season debut of right tackle Abraham Lucas, arguably their top blocker as a rookie in 2022, could provide a significant boost.
The absence of tight ends Noah Fant and Brady Russell may limit Seattle’s passing game, especially considering Fant’s season-high 63 receiving yards in the previous matchup.
McCaffrey’s Return
Unlike their first meeting, the Seahawks will have to contend with the dynamic Christian McCaffrey, who returned last week from an Achilles injury. The All-Pro running back has been a thorn in Seattle’s side, averaging 141.5 scrimmage yards with four total touchdowns in four games against them since joining the 49ers in 2022.
“He’s one of those jack-of-all trades. He can do it all… We’ve got a great task ahead of us this week with their team and what they have, but I know what we have, so I’m excited.”
– Ernest Jones IV on facing Christian McCaffrey
Playoff Implications
With only a 6.2% chance of making the playoffs, according to ESPN Analytics, and the fifth-hardest remaining schedule, the Seahawks’ postseason hopes may hinge on snapping their losing streak against the 49ers. A seventh straight loss would drop them to 0-3 in NFC West play, a daunting hole to climb out of.
“It’s very personal, man. When you think about division opponents, these games matter the most, especially with the 49ers… if we want to be that type of team that we say we are, we got to go through teams like this…”
– Geno Smith on the importance of the 49ers matchup
As the bitter rivals prepare to clash once more, the Seahawks are acutely aware of the stakes. With a revamped roster and a chip on their shoulder, they’ll aim to prove they can compete with the cream of the NFC crop. The question remains: will the changes be enough to reverse their fortunes against a 49ers team that has had their number for over two seasons?
Sunday’s showdown at Levi’s Stadium will provide the answer, as the Seahawks-49ers rivalry writes its latest chapter. For Seattle, it’s not just about snapping a skid; it’s about reasserting themselves in a division they once dominated. With playoff hopes fading, there’s no better time for the Seahawks to make a statement against their longtime foe.
