For Pete's Sake: 5 critical observations from Seahawks Thanksgiving blow-out loss

Kenneth Walker III's absence was significant

It's always tough when one of your top-performing players goes down in a game when you're set to play your next one just four days later. So when Kenneth Walker III left last week's game with an oblique injury and was almost immediately ruled out, it was clear he would not be on the field for the Week 12 game.

His absence elevated Zach Charbonnet to the top of the running back depth chart, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. However, it's asking a lot from a rookie against one of the best defenses in the league this year.

Because of that, it didn't allow for Seattle's offense to have much of a run game, recording just 21 carries for 88 yards and the longest carry going for only 11 yards. Unfortunately, this might be the case over the next few games since they are facing some of the better defenses in the league, and it could become even worse if Walker remains out.

Ball security, ball security, BALL SECURITY!

At this point in the season, it's disappointing to have to reiterate something like ball security still, but that's where the Seahawks are through 11 games. Although they were facing a tough team whose defense is known for swinging the momentum in their favor, some of the mistakes made when Seattle had the football in their possession are inexcusable.

The first instance was Geno Smith's interception early in the second quarter. Often, the receiver is at fault in a situation like this. But this feels like it was more of a lousy decision throw by Smith than any mistake made by Tyler Lockett on the catch.

Smith threw the football to Lockett despite being essentially covered by a defender on the sideline. On top of that, Lockett had to turn around in order to even attempt at the reception. It allowed Ambry Thomas to get in front of him and snag the interception, ending what could have been an otherwise productive offensive drive.

The other heartbreaking turnover occurred just over ten game-time minutes later, when DeeJay Dallas muffed the catch on the punt, and the football was recovered by the 49ers at Seattle's 22-yard line.

The Seahawk defense stepped up when needed and forced the 49ers to kick a field goal, keeping the score within reach. But that good outcome doesn't outweigh the potentially better one had the offense been able to have another possession to move down the field.

Ball security will need to remain a priority for this team moving forward, even more so with the teams they are set to face over the next month. The opponents themselves will be tough enough without handing over easy opportunities for them to make the job of winning even more difficult.

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