Week 7 kicks off Thursday night with a huge NFC West showdown between the visiting Seattle Seahawks (4-2) and the San Francisco 49ers (4-2).
The 49ers are looking to bounce back from their worst defeat under coach Jim Harbaugh after a crushing loss to the NY Giants on Sunday 26-3. While the Seahawks pulled off another big victory at home by coming from behind to beat the Patriots 24-23. However, an alarming statistic to note is the Seattle defense gave up a season-high 475 yards to the Pats. This for a team that is fourth in the NFC in defensive yards per game at 294.
The 49ers next three opponents are against division foes so a victory at home over Seattle is imperative to their chances of winning the NFC West this season as so many have predicted (including ME!). The Seahawks are not the same team on the road, 1-2, as they are playing in front of the “12th Man” in Seattle. Also, let’s keep in mind, the 49ers got flat out embarrassed at home this past Sunday and will be looking to bounce back with a statement game. But this will be a stiff test for Alex Smith, who is much improved as a pocket passer and throwing outside the numbers. Smith and this offense have been fantastic on first downs, which is key since they are not built to sustain a lot of third-and-long situations. The 49ers come into the game seventh in the NFC in scoring at 25 ppg and first in the NFL in rushing at 176 ypg. However, the key to victory for the 49ers is getting back to the running game led by Frank Gore but this will be tough going up against Seattle’s defense, which is second in the NFL in only yielding 70 ypg.
This is a classic “Strength vs Strength” match up. Prediction: San Francisco 20 Seattle 14 (Seattle covers +7.5).
