Seahawks vs. 49ers 2014 picks and predictions: Experts split on NFC West Thanksgiving showdown

Both teams enter the game at 7-4.

The defending champion Seattle Seahawks righted their ship with last week's win over the Arizona Cardinals. They try to make it two in a row when they take on the San Francisco 49ers on Thanksgiving.

Seattle hasn't bowled over opponents this year the way it did during its magic Super Bowl run. While the defense remains one of the league's better units, it has taken a noticeable step back, allowing nearly six more points per game than a season earlier. Part of that can be attributed to injuries to Brandon Mebane, Bobby Wagner, and several key reserves. Missed games have also been an issue on offense, where linemen James Carpenter and now Max Unger have suffered their own injuries. Marshawn Lynch continues to terrorize defenses, but the line's shortcomings have affected the play of quarterback Russell Wilson.

As for the 49ers, they're beginning to overcome some of their injury woes. Linebacker Chris Borland has played more than capably in the absence of Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman, and star pass rusher Aldon Smith returned two weeks ago and has already registered two sacks. On offense, Colin Kaepernick has limited mistakes, throwing only six interceptions and fumbling away two balls. However, he hasn't produced as many big plays as in past years, running for fewer yards and as of yet recording no rushing touchdowns.

The experts are understandably split on the outcome of Seahawks vs. 49ers. Five of CBS Sports' eight-man panel sided with the defending champs.

CBS Sports senior writer Pete Prisco had this to say about the game:

This should be a physical war, like these games have been in recent years. The Seattle defense looked much better last week, and San Francisco's has improved the past three months. Look for both quarterbacks to struggle to get it going. I think the 49ers will find a way behind Colin Kaepernick to win it late.

Here at SB Nation, four of our seven experts are leaning toward the Seahawks.

	Ryan Van Bibber	Stephen White	David Fucillo	Danny Kelly	PFT Commenter	Matt Ufford	Joel Thorman
SEA vs. SF	SEA	SF	SF	SF	SF	SEA	SEA

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