The Seattle Seahawks had a difficult game on their home field against the San Francisco 49ers, losing 31–13. This was especially true of their offensive performance. The Seahawks offense only scored three of the 13 points on the scoreboard, so even those numbers are deceptive. The first field goal for the Seahawks was the result of a lengthy kick return, and their only touchdown came from a pick-six on a ball that was tipped. With the exception of a single field goal drive, Seattle’s offense was essentially worthless.
Coach Pete Carroll was pragmatic when questioned about the offense after the game. According to Carroll, “there is nothing that is okay in this one,” Bob Condotta of The Seattle Times reported.
The Seahawks offense was completely overpowered by the 49ers defense. They held Seattle to just 3-11 on third down conversion attempts, forced a fumble and interception, and sacked Geno Smith six times. With three crucial pass breakups, cornerback Charvarius Ward shut down the Seattle receivers, forcing the Seahawks into multiple 3-and-out situations. Seattle’s offense was unremarkable save for a superb one-handed catch made by rookie wide out Jaxon Smith-Njigba. They have now gone seven periods without scoring an offensive touchdown.
The Seahawks did have some ailments going into the game; Kenneth Walker III was sidelined due to an oblique issue, while Geno Smith was dealing with an elbow injury. They didn’t assist the Seahawks either, even if Seattle would not use them as an excuse and they are by no means the only offensive problems during the game.