Alex Smith is atrocious. He wasn't very good last year with 5 more turnovers than touchdowns, and he is already -2 in that department through 2 games. He seems to be able to throw about as many touchdowns as interceptions (a big improvement over his rookie year), but that isn't any big achievement and he still manages to lose fumbles on a regular basis. Losing his tight end (Vernon Davis is out with a sprained MCL) will hurt him even more. The Seahawks defense should be able to crowd the box, stuff Frank Gore, and force Alex Smith to beat them. Don't worry, he can't.
The Seahawks will likely face a lot of nickel. That is actually a good personnel grouping for the 49ers. They can get Keith Lewis in the game with Mark Roman and Michael Lewis. The 49ers will run a 3-3-5. The problem with that is the safeties are suited to play the run. Even though it will be essentially a nickel package for much of the game, the Seahawks should be able to pass against that defense. If Holmgren allows Branch and Burleson to run deep routes, then Hasselbeck is looking at a 3-TD game.
Nate Clements is good against the run. Lewis and Lewis, and Roman are as well. So look for the wideouts to stretch the defense. Nolan will probably adjust, and Alexander should go for 100 yards in the second half alone. If Mike Holmgren is worth his salt as an offensive guru, the 'Hawks should have no problem finding paydirt at least 4 times. The 49ers will play a nickel that is strong against the run. Answer: pass. Then they will play 3 CBs and over pursue the pass. Solution: run Alexander or Strong on draws.
I normally hate the way Holmgren relies on the draw, but that play alone should eat up plenty of yards and go for at least one TD on Sunday.
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