These two teams split last season with each team winning on their home turf.  The Seahawks though have blown up the roster to go with new head coach Pete Carroll’s guys.  Here is a look at the match-up for Sunday’s game:

When the Seahawks have the football:  The Seahawks have a lot of injuries along the offensive line which is going to limit what they can do on offense.  I look for them to throw the ball short and attempt to run the ball.  I’m very anxious to see what Pete Carroll’s boy (Mike Williams) can do this week as he has been a complete bust to this point in his career.  Deion Branch and John Carlson will also see a few targets each in this game.  Justin Forsett and Leon Washington will probably get the bulk of their yards catching the ball out of the backfield as it’s going to be hard to run against a 49ers’ D with Patrick Willis sitting in the middle of it.

When the 49ers have the ball:  Rookie free safety Earl Thomas of the Seahawks is going to get a baptism by fire as he will have to deal with Niners’ TE Vernon Davis quite a bit in this game.  The Seahawks do have a nice set of linebackers who will likely be chasing Frank Gore quite a bit.  The Seahawks will need to get some help from the front seven in rushing Alex Smith or else the Niners are going to have a very big day.

PREDICTION:  49ERS 27, SEAHAWKS 10