After a well-timed bye week, the Seattle Seahawks are set to hit the road for a high-stakes matchup against the NFC West rival San Francisco 49ers. Coming off a hard-fought 23-20 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 49ers will look to build on their momentum as they prepare to host Seattle at Levi’s Stadium. With both teams vying for playoff positioning, this primetime showdown promises to be a crucial test for two of the most competitive squads in the NFC. The Seahawks, fresh from their week of rest, will aim to capitalize on the opportunity to close the gap in the division, while the 49ers, led by their dynamic roster, will look to extend their winning streak and keep their hopes of winning the division alive. Fans can expect a fast-paced, intense battle as both teams bring their best to the gridiron in one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the season.
Seahawks Keys to Victory
To secure a win against the 49ers in Week 11, the Seattle Seahawks must focus on containing San Francisco’s potent offense, particularly the run game. Christian McCaffrey is a key weapon for the 49ers, and limiting his ability to break off big runs will be essential for Seattle’s defensive success. The Seahawks’ defensive front, including key players like Derick Hall and Boye Mafe, must win the battle in the trenches to disrupt the run game and force Brock Purdy to beat them through the air. While Purdy has been effective, his relative inexperience means Seattle’s pass rush must generate consistent pressure, especially on third down, to force him into uncomfortable situations. The Seahawks’ secondary, led by standout cornerbacks Tariq Woolen and Devin Witherspoon, will also need to lock down on San Francisco’s playmakers, including Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, to prevent big plays downfield.
On offense, Seattle must establish a balanced attack while protecting quarterback Geno Smith from the 49ers’ aggressive defense. Given San Francisco’s ability to create pressure and force turnovers, Seattle’s offensive line must provide solid protection, particularly on third downs, to give Smith enough time to connect with key targets like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. The Seahawks should aim to control the tempo with a mix of the run game—utilizing Kenneth Walker—and short-to-medium-range passing, with rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba playing a key role. If Seattle can sustain drives, control the clock, and avoid turnovers, they can capitalize on any mistakes the 49ers make and put themselves in a strong position to secure a crucial divisional victory.
X-Factor: DK Metcalf
The Seahawks, who have been without Metcalf the past couple of weeks, have struggled in the passing game, and getting him back will be a big boost. Without Chavarious Ward I think the 49ers will have a tough time guarding Metcalf and I think he will have a big game registering 100 yards and a touchdown.Â
49ers Keys to Victory
To secure a win against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 11, the San Francisco 49ers must control the line of scrimmage on both offense and defense. Offensively, a strong running game led by Christian McCaffrey is essential to setting up play-action and keeping Seattle’s defense on its heels. The 49ers’ offensive line must provide Brock Purdy with the time and protection he needs to make accurate throws and avoid pressure from the Seahawks’ pass rush. Defensively, San Francisco needs to pressure quarterback Geno Smith, disrupting his rhythm and limiting his ability to extend plays. Shutting down Seattle’s top wide receivers, DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, is crucial in preventing the Seahawks’ offense from gaining momentum.
In addition to physical dominance, the 49ers must play disciplined, mistake-free football to avoid turnovers that could swing the game in Seattle’s favor. Purdy must remain calm and avoid unnecessary risks, while the team protects the ball, particularly McCaffrey during the running game. Special teams will also be pivotal, as the 49ers must win the field-position battle and prevent big returns. By executing a balanced offense, dominating defensively, and staying mistake-free, the 49ers can impose their will on the Seahawks and come away with a critical divisional victory at home.
X-Factor: Christian McCaffrey
The 49ers offense revolves around McCaffrey. The Seahawks below average run defense will be in for a big test this week.
Predictions
Ultimately, I think the 49ers emerge victorious in this matchup. They are 6-0 in their last 6 games against Seattle, and I see this improving to 7-0. The Seahawks will be outmatched again against their division rivals and the return of Christian McCaffrey makes it a taller task for Seattle. The 49ers will win this one 30-24
Best Bets
San Francisco 49ers -6.5: -110
George Kittle Anytime TD Scorer: +155
DK Metcalf OVER 80+ Receiving Yards: +170
For an in-depth breakdown of the Seahawks and 49ers matchup checkout this YouTube video