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Seahawks and 49ers Head Into Week 5 Defensive Standoff

Seattle plans patient, on-schedule offense against a coverage-first San Francisco defense that limits big plays and affects the NFC West race.

Overview

  • Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold told reporters on Thursday that Seattle will emphasize staying on schedule on early downs and trust that explosive plays will come naturally rather than forcing them.
  • San Francisco’s unit has allowed about 16.0 points per game and has conceded only 14 plays of 15+ yards through four weeks, a mark tied for the fewest in the NFL.
  • Reports cite new defensive coordinator Raheem Morris leaning heavily on coverage discipline, with Cover 4 used on roughly 45.8% of snaps to keep plays in front of defenders.
  • Seattle’s defense ranks among the league’s best, allowing roughly 246.8 yards per game and keeping opponents to one of the lowest scoring totals through four weeks.
  • The 49ers have produced strong results despite injuries, and coach Kyle Shanahan said Mykel Williams increased his practice workload as the team evaluates a possible season debut, a development that could change San Francisco’s pass-rush outlook.