by Joe Lami

The San Francisco 49ers return to action this Sunday, as they travel to Seattle to take on the Seahawks. Seattle has faced their own struggles as well this season with a 4-5 record heading into Sunday. However, three of their five losses have been by less than four points.

It was just a month ago where the Seahawks blew out the 49ers 20-3 on Monday Night Football in Santa Clara. The 49ers offense couldn’t get anything going, even though their defense held them in the game for the majority. San Francisco will have someone new under center from a month ago, as Blaine Gabbert will be starting his second straight.

He won his first start of the year with a 17-16 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. He led two touchdown drives, throwing for 185 yards on 60% pass percentage. The 49ers offense looked revived with Gabbert under center, finally having a quarterback that can get the ball into their receivers hands.

Gabbert’s biggest challenge will come to his right as he will have to avoid Richard Sherman. Sherman hasn’t done much yet this year, with eight pass deflections and no interceptions. Earl Thomas leads the mighty Seahawks secondary with three picks on the year. The 49ers will also be using their make shift running back core, with Shaun Draughn expected to get the majority of carries once again.

San Francisco wasn’t able to stop Marshawn Lynch in their first matchup, who will be looking to have a field day come Sunday.

Seattle has just dominated the 49ers at home in recent years, as San Francisco hasn’t won in the pacific northwest since 2011. The streak will continue this year, as expect Seattle to just dominate the banged up 49ers defense. Gabbert should be able to get something going offensively however.

Seattle 28 San Francisco 13