Merry Christmas! The 49ers Faithful received an early X-mas present yesterday with a 19-17 win over the hated Seahawks.  The offense clicked late in the game, while the defense dominated throughout.  Check back tomorrow for a full review and Game Gold Nuggets. Go 49ers and cheers!

San Francisco 49ers (11-3) vs. Seattle Seahawks (7-7)

CenturyLink Field

Kickoff: Saturday, 1:15 PM (PST)

Here are five things to watch for in the divisional matchup between the 49ers and Seahawks:

Dominate Defense

All the 49ers need is another dominate performance by the defense and they win.  Yes, the Seahawks have an emerging offense that has contributed to the team scoring at least 30 points in the last three games, all wins.  The 49ers defense led by Patrick Willis, Justin Smith and Carlos Rogers dominate teams by physically pounding the offense on each play and pressuring them into mistakes.  Against the Steelers the defense recorded its fifth game this season with 10 or fewer points given up and did give up a touchdown.  The Seahawks can expect the same dominate performance from the defense especially if Willis is able to play. 

Carlos Rogers and the secondary will be hunting for interceptions all game and should be able to cover the Seahawks receivers eliminating the passing game.  A consistent pass rush like they had against the Steelers will go a long way in stopping QB Tarvaris Jackson from making any big plays down the field.  The Seahawks offense may be without WR Doug Baldwin who might miss the game with an ankle injury.

(more…)

This week injured 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis talked for the first time since injuring his hamstring three weeks ago.  Willis said he hopes to play on Saturday against the Seahawks and participated in his first practice on Thursday since his injury.  Willis did not participate in practice on Wednesday and he was listed as “limited” which means he might play on Saturday.

There is a chance it might rain before and during the game making the field wet and slick, which is not good for a hamstring injury.  It would be great to have Willis back on the field but only if he is 100%.  Jim Harbaugh cannot risk re-injuring Willis’ hamstring causing him to miss the rest of the season and the playoffs.  LB Larry Grant has filled in nicely for Willis with 16 tackles and five defended passes.

(more…)