Key Storylines to Watch in Saturday’s Divisional Round Game
The upcoming Divisional Round game promises intense matchups, particularly focusing on the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers. Both teams come in with contrasting strengths and weaknesses that could significantly influence the game’s outcome.
Key Storylines to Watch in Saturday’s Divisional Round Game
Dominant Pass Rush of the Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks feature one of the most potent pass-rushing attacks in the NFL. They have five players who have recorded over 40 pressures this season, the highest in the league. The team ranks fourth with a QB pressure rate of 38.9 percent while blitzing infrequently, at 25th in the league.
According to NFL Pro, Seattle ranks 11th in defensive efficiency without blitzing, and they excel while blitzing, presenting challenges for opposing offenses. This poses a significant threat for the 49ers, particularly their quarterback, Brock Purdy, who has struggled under blitz pressure, ranking 24th in passing efficiency this season. In their two matchups, the Seahawks increased their blitz rate dramatically, forcing a completion percentage below expectation. This left the 49ers’ offense struggling to gain traction.
San Francisco’s Defensive Struggles
Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers are grappling with defensive issues, particularly after losing key pass rushers to injuries. They currently sit last in the league for sacks with 20 and are tied for 29th in interceptions with just six. Their pressure-producing unit is the second weakest in the NFL, generating pressure only 26.7 percent of the time.
There was a glimmer of hope in their latest encounter with Seattle, where they achieved a pressure rate of 36.7 percent, surpassing Seattle’s 34.4 percent. If the 49ers can consistently apply pressure against Sam Darnold, they may create critical opportunities, but achieving this consistently has been an ongoing challenge.
Seattle’s Ground Game vs. Darnold’s Performance
During their last meeting in Week 18, Seattle showcased a strong ground game, with Kenneth Walker III running for 97 yards and Zach Charbonnet adding 74 yards and a touchdown. This running dominance highlighted Seattle’s ability to succeed without heavily relying on Darnold, who has had a problematic season marked by unreliability.
Seattle may opt for a run-heavy strategy again, especially with Darnold dealing with an oblique injury. The decision will aim to leverage the strength of their running game while mitigating the risks associated with Darnold’s performance under playoff pressure.
San Francisco’s Defensive Trends
San Francisco’s run defense will face a tough test against a resurgent Seahawks rushing attack that averaged 140.6 yards per game from Weeks 10 to 18. They recently struggled against the Philadelphia Eagles, allowing 140 rushing yards and a season-high of 180 yards in their last encounter with Seattle.
As the game approaches, San Francisco’s defensive coordinator, Robert Saleh, is likely preparing strategies to neutralize Seattle’s ground game. The outcome of this battle could play a crucial role in determining which team advances in the playoffs.
