San Francisco 49ers quarterback Nick Mullens rolls out during a drill at practice on Oct. 18, 2018. (Ryan Gorcey / S.F. Examiner)

By: Joe Lami

SANTA CLARA — The rivalry is renewed this Sunday as the 2-9 San Francisco 49ers travel up to Seattle to take on the hated 6-5 Seahawks. The rivalry has been relatively one-sided of late with Seattle taking every game since 2013.

They’ve done an exceptional job defending Century Link with the assistance of the 12th man, as the 49ers haven’t won in Seattle in 2011. Much of this is thanks to Russell Wilson, who is 11-2 all-time against the red and gold. Wilson is once again having an incredible season, passing for 2,531 yards thus far with 25 touchdowns and five interceptions.

It’ll be an uphill climb for the 49ers’ defense that has only forced five turnovers all season, including just two interceptions all year. They’ll need a huge rebound after the worst performance of the season in an 18-point embarrassment where the defense failed to get a takeaway. It’s especially horrendous when it happens against the Bucs, who have been handing out turnovers like they’re Christmas presents with 29 on the season.

The Seahawks are right in the middle of the playoff fight, currently the first team out, but a huge win against an abysmal 49ers team will most likely bump them right back in.

This Sunday, we’ll learn whether or not last weekend’s performance was due to the Reuben Foster meltdown that occurred on Saturday night or if this team has quit on Shanahan and co. If it’s the latter, it’s time to recognize the hot seat.

One player that would love to go into Seattle and turn things around is Richard Sherman. The all-pro corner returns to his old stomping grounds for the first time in red and gold, chirping all week long in preparation.