3 Keys to 49ers Victory: Battle in the Trenches vs Seattle

49ers face Seahawks in matchup with heavy playoff implications. Both teams have injury concerns, but 49ers are favored to win.

The first of two matchups between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers is set to take place at Levi's Stadium in Week 14. This game holds significant playoff implications, as the Seahawks are just one game behind the 49ers at 6-4.

As the 49ers prepare for the matchup, they are facing some health concerns. Guard Spencer Burford did not practice all week and is listed as questionable, while fellow guard Aaron Banks is also questionable after practicing in a limited fashion on Tuesday and Wednesday. If either of these players is unable to go, guard Jon Feliciano is expected to earn the start.

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the 49ers are seen as seven-point favorites heading into the game, with the over/under set at 43.5 points.

The Seattle Seahawks have experienced both success and setbacks throughout the season, currently holding a 6-4 record. They entered Week 9 in first place in the NFC West at 5-2 but have since dropped two of their last three games.

As they prepare for Week 12, the Seahawks have a few injury concerns, with running back Kenneth Walker listed as doubtful, and quarterback Geno Smith and right tackle Abraham Lucas listed as questionable.

Seattle has struggled with a negative point differential this season, allowing 21.8 points per game while scoring 21.6. Their rushing attack ranks 25th in the NFL, averaging just 96.6 yards per game on the ground.

Defensively, the Seahawks have allowed 345.6 yards per game, ranking 23rd in the NFL, and have a 19th-ranked scoring defense, giving up 21.8 points per contest.

Despite these challenges, the Seahawks have a strong receiving duo in D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, as well as an improving young offensive line.

One area of concern for the Seahawks is their red zone defense, as they rank 28th, allowing touchdowns on 65.4 percent of opponent red zone drives. This could pose a challenge against the 49ers' offense, which ranks fourth in the NFL in red zone opportunities.

The 49ers have also excelled in the turnover department, winning the turnover battle in each of their last two games. They will need to continue this trend against the Seahawks, who rank seventh in the NFL in terms of turnovers.

In terms of getting to the quarterback, the 49ers will face a strong Seattle offensive line, while the Seahawks will need to contend with a resurgent 49ers defensive line led by Chase Young.

Overall, while the 49ers may appear to have the advantage on paper, the Seahawks pose a compelling challenge for San Francisco's offensive and defensive lines.

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