49ers (4-3) at Seahawks (5-1)
Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET, CenturyLink Field, Seattle
TV: Fox
Danny Sheridan’s line: Seahawks by 3
49ers’ keys to victory: San Francisco has a steep hill to climb to remain competitive in the NFC West, arguably the best division in the NFL. Riddled by injuries early, the 49ers have been mounting an honorable campaign. The 49ers were without their starting safeties Jaquiski Tartt and Jimmie Ward in Week 7 but desperately need them back if they are to stop Seattle QB Russell Wilson and his offensive efforts. San Francisco signal-caller Jimmy Garoppolo needs to do a little “cooking” of his own if his squad is going to emerge victorious.
Seahawks’ keys to victory: They are off to one of their best starts in franchise history. The Seahawks were also without a starting safety in Week 7, but the expectations are high that Jamal Adams can recover from his lingering groin injury in time. Wilson and Co. have been able to cover for what Seattle’s defense has not, but it’s doubtful the momentum can carry throughout the whole season. The Seahawks should be wary of Garoppolo and his weapons and play clean football.
Matchup to watch: Seahawks QB Wilson vs. 49ers secondary. Again, the health of both team’s secondaries is going to be crucial in securing a win. However, Wilson usually finds a way to work some magic in the fourth quarter, and a last-minute score for the victory is what he does best.
Who wins? There is no denying the 49ers have put together a solid lineup this season, but Wilson is playing the best football of his career. San Francisco will keep it close, but ...
Seahawks 34-28