The Seattle Seahawks took care of business at Qwest Field last Sunday, overcoming a slow start to drop the Carolina Panthers, 31-14. It was a dominating second half for the Seahawks, who used 28 unanswered points, including a 21-point third quarter outburst, to come from behind and overcome a 14-3 halftime deficit. This weekend, the Seahawks head to San Francisco to battle the division rival 49ers.
The Seahawks' run game experienced a resurgence at Qwest Field Sunday as Marshawn Lynch rushed for 83 yards and three touchdowns against the Panthers. Change of pace back Justin Forsett was the lightning to Lynch's thunder, adding 60 yards on just six carries. With Matt Hasselbeck struggling, and throwing two interceptions against the Panthers, the ability of the Seahawks to pick-up yards on the ground proved to be the difference.
The Seahawks were without Hasselbeck's favorite target last week and may be without him again this Sunday. Mike Williams, nursing a variety of different injuries, was hit with the injury bug again against Carolina, spraining his ankle early-on. The receiving corps was depleted, with both Williams and Ben Obomanu having to leave Sunday's game, giving Hasselbeck only three healthy receiving options against the Panthers. Obomanu is recovering from a severe hand laceration and may be able to play against the 49ers this Sunday.
The ability to stop the run game is still a concern for the Seahawks. Last weekend, Jonathan Stewart became the latest in a length list of running backs that have gashed the Seahawks on the ground. Stewart rushed for 92 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries while Mike Goodson picked up 19 yards and a touchdown on Sunday.
After starting the year strong, injuries have crippled the Seahawks defensive line, leaving them in a vulnerable position against the run. With Frank Gore out for the season with a fractured hip, Brian Westbook will carry the load against the Seahawks as San Francisco looks to exploited Seattle's deficiencies.
The Seahawks and 49ers kick-off this Sunday at 1:05 p.m. on Fox.