Seahawks (1-2) at 49ers (2-1)
Sunday, 4:05 p.m. ET, Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: 49ers by 2 ⁄2
1
Seahawks’ keys to victory: Seattle desperately needs a bounce-back game against a scuffling 49ers offense. It’ll all start up front with how the Seahawks get pressure. If DEs Kerry Hyder and DE Carlos Dunlap and the rest of the D-line can force 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo to make throws under pressure, it’ll be a big day for the defense. On the other side, QB Russell Wilson needs to take advantage of a beaten up 49ers secondary and feed WRs DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
49ers’ keys to victory: It’s all about keeping Garoppolo upright long enough to let him get in a rhythm, especially if they’re not going to run the ball effectively. Creating explosive plays to TE George Kittle and WR Deebo Samuel is paramount, but don’t be surprised if rookie QB Trey Lance gets a more extended look in the game. Defensively their biggest key is getting enough of a pass rush on Wilson without letting him extend plays, which will make things easier on their ailing secondary. DE Nick Bosa and DL Arik Armstead need to be the most impactful players on the field for the 49ers’ defense to have any chance. LB Fred Warner also needs to make plays when Wilson gets to the edge.
Matchup to watch: Seahawks’ Metcalf vs. 49ers CB Emmanuel Moseley. Moseley is the 49ers’ top cornerback, and he’s had a little bit of success against Metcalf. The Seahawks receiver is off to a monster start, however, and slowing him down may be too tall a task.
Who wins? This is the biggest game of the year, and Seattle is the healthier, more desperate team.
Seahawks, 34-26