The Seahawksâ rushing attack has been the seasonâs real evolution. In Week 1 Seattle managed just 84 rushing yards, but by Week 18 they piled up 180 on the ground. Seahawks.com writer John Boyle noted the resurgence, with AJ Barner crediting the teamâs persistence and physicality up front. Head coach Mike Macdonald added that weekly adjustments have helped refine how many runs the team can carry, the types of runs, and what to put on the quarterbackâs plate. đââď¸đ¨đ
Questions remain at quarterback, as Sam Darnold has battled an oblique injury and could be limited. Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet become even more important if Darnold isnât at full strength. Macdonald expressed optimism that Darnold could go â100 percent,â while acknowledging the possibility of a plan B if needed. The team will also look back to last weekâs success against a depleted defense to guide their approach. đ¤đŞ
Against the 49ers last week, San Francisco surrendered 140 rushing yards to the Philadelphia Eagles, a benchmark Seattle hopes to mirror. Barnerâs remarks about weather and playing in Seattle suggest the Seahawks intend to lean into the ground game and grind out yardage in the elements. The run gameâs continued improvement could be the deciding factor in a matchup thatâs become a familiar, edge-of-your-seat rematch. đ§ď¸đ§
In short, the Seahawks and 49ers know each other well after three meetings this season, and the tiebreaker could determine who advances. Seattleâs improved rushing attack, the health and performance of Darnold, and the ability to replicate strong run defense against San Francisco will shape what promises to be a pivotal playoff showdown. đđŻ
