49ers vs. Seahawks: 5 players to watch in Week 17 NFC West showdown

6 of 6

Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney #90 of the Seattle Seahawks (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

No. 5: 49ers O-line vs. Jadeveon Clowney

It’s no secret EDGE Jadeveon Clowney totally dominated the 49ers in Week 10 to the point that he was the difference between a win and a loss. Clowney only had one sack, but also forced a fumble, had five quarterback hits and a defensive touchdown.

The 49ers offensive line was totally unprepared for the awesome force of Clowney, but the 49ers are prepared now.

The Niners have extra blocking weapons in George Kittle and fullback Kyle Juszczyk, so they have options to stifle his influence aside from just the offensive line.

Also in their favor is Clowney had to sit out the previous two games due to a core muscle injury, so he may not be in peak football condition.

Next. 49ers vs. Seahawks: 3 X-factors San Francisco must overcome in Week 17. dark

For the 49ers to win, quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo needs time to throw. Clowney is by far their best player on the defensive line, he must be stopped at all costs.

If they do that, the 49ers could very well leave Seattle with the division and conference under their belt, as well as the No. 1 seed and home field advantage for the playoffs.