When the NFL put together the 2007 season schedule, I’m sure they envisioned the second match up between the Seahawks and 49ers to be a little more enticing (something a little more worthy of a Monday Night game). Going into the season, the 49ers were something of a dark horse. Some “experts” actually thought they had a chance to win the NFC West. Fast forward to week 10 and the 49ers are sitting on a 2-6 record with the leagues worst offense in both yards and points per game.

While San Francisco is certainly struggling, Seattle is also having problems. Despite having a 12th ranked (in yards, 15th in points) offense, many Seattle fans would guess that the Seahawks are playing at a level more akin to a 30th ranked offense. Shaun Alexander continues to struggle running the ball. Whether this is due more to his ineptitude or the subpar performance of a once-dominate offensive line is yet to be determined, but tonight’s game might shed some light on the subject as it appears Alexander will be riding the pine (due to his recent flair-up of pussitis). This will allow backup Maurice Morris to show Seattle what he’s really made up. I’m still sticking to my belief that RB/FB Leonard Weaver should get the start, but the chances of that happening are pretty slim.

With their offense struggling, the Seattle defense has had to pick up the slack. While no one is comparing this years Seahawks to the ’85 Bears, they are doing more than you might think. Going into week 10, the Seahawks’ defense is 19th in the league in yards allowed. Undaunting to say the least, but while they may allow 333.6 yards per game, Seattle’s defense is only allowing 17.6 yards per game (7th in the NFL) and keeping this team in games. Even more impressive is the fact that Seattle’s secondary has allowed only five pass touchdowns all season, best in the league. This bodes well for a defense that is facing Alex Smith (only two TD passes all season).

Despite key injuries to Alexander and Deion Branch, it would be quite a shock if the Seahawks lost tonight. Look for receivers D.J. Hackett and Bobby Engram to have big games and the defense to pitch a near shutout.

31-3, Seattle