Seahawks vs. 49ers: 5 questions about the Niners for week 15
By Lee Vowell
Roster changes coming for the 49ers?
12th Man Rising: The 49ers roster is pretty much set for 2019 with many key players already under contract next year. Is 2018 just an aberration because of all the injuries or does the team need to make big roster changes this coming offseason to be greatly improved in 2019?
Panacy: Kind of related to the above issues with the pass rush, since that’s been such a big part of the defensive lapses. But, yes. Injuries have hurt. That said, the two biggest injuries — quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and running back Jerick McKinnon — haven’t totally derailed Shanahan’s offense. This unit isn’t playing like a top-five group, or anything like that. But the Niners offense has remained OK for a good chunk of the season.
The good news is San Francisco has a lot of the cornerstone pieces in place. Tight end George Kittle is a bona fide playmaker, so adding Garoppolo and McKinnon back to the fray only helps. So does the idea of Pettis’ ongoing maturation.
Defensively, a true edge rusher is desperately needed. A quality free safety (hey, Earl Mitchell, wanna come to S.F.?) would also help this Cover 3 scheme thrive the way Seattle made it thrive for years.
It doesn’t seem as if the Niners are too far away from having a more complete roster, which is good.
Who wins when the Seahawks play the 49ers in week 15?
12th Man Rising: Who wins when the 49ers play the Seahawks in week 15 and why?
Panacy: The Seahawks still probably win this one. They’re playing hot right now, winners of four straight and gunning for a playoff berth. But the Niners likely offer up a much better showing of themselves instead of being blown out. Remember, the Broncos were also gunning for the postseason, and San Francisco was able to toss a proverbial “monkey wrench” in their plans.
Next. Grading Seahawks defensive starters so far in 2018. dark
The 49ers don’t have anything to lose by going all out in this contest. They can play free, knowing all that’s on the table is pride and the chance to hinder Seattle’s playoff hopes. Plus, a lot of the younger players are vying for roles in 2019 and will need to showcase their abilities now to make it happen.
That said, I’d look at a final score of something like 27-21 in favor of the Seahawks.