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3 questions 49ers need to answer leading into Week 10 vs. Seahawks

By Akshaj Dwivedula

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Earl Thomas #29 of the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 26: Marquise Goodwin #11 of the San Francisco 49ers is tackled by Earl Thomas #29 of the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium on November 26, 2017 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 27: Kwon Alexander #56 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts against the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium on October 27, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

How will Kwon Alexander’s loss impact the 49ers defense?

Folks here at Niner Noise have spent considerable time going over the various nuances of linebacker Kwon Alexander‘s torn pectoral. But the time spent is warranted.

Alexander provided an intangible spark to this defense and a tangible impact. His coverage ability was critical for the defense, especially with the frequency of zone the Niners run. However, his run defense was just passable, and when faced with screens against Arizona, he did struggle.

The 49ers will probably call upon rookie linebacker Dre Greenlaw to replace Alexander in nickel defensive sets, although there are other ways to boost up that pass defense. Against Seattle, Alexander’s loss will be an interesting case.

On one hand, Alexander’s speed and coverage ability would have been great when Russell Wilson managed to get outside the pocket, forcing linebackers to either collapse on him or stay glued to their man. On the other hand, the Seahawks will indubitably run the ball, a issue that could be covered up now.

From the limited game tape available without Alexander, it hasn’t been particularly pretty. With the extra time, how the defense adjusts will be key for this game and the future.