Seahawks face adversity as LT Charles Cross ruled out for critical clash against 49ers
As the Seattle Seahawks gear up for a pivotal regular-season matchup against the San Francisco 49ers this Saturday night at Levi’s Stadium, the stakes could not be higher. The NFC West title is at stake, along with the promise of a first-round playoff bye and home-field advantage throughout the postseason. Conversely, the losing team will have to contend with a Wild Card berth and the challenges of a road game in the first round.
Playoff Atmosphere Intensifies
Both teams are approaching this game with the intensity of a playoff battle. 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan encapsulated this sentiment, stating, “I see this as a playoff game.” Such high stakes have prompted injured players to attempt to return for what could be the season’s defining moment. Unfortunately for Seattle, their efforts will be hampered by the absence of a crucial offensive lineman—starting left tackle Charles Cross.
Cross, who sustained a hamstring injury during Jason Myers’ game-winning field goal on December 14, has not participated in practice since. The Seahawks made the decision to rule him out for the season finale, further complicating their quest for the NFC West championship and the conference’s top playoff seed.
Offensive Line in Flux
With Cross sidelined, the Seahawks are left to navigate the challenges of the offensive line. His backup, Josh Jones, is currently listed as “questionable” due to lingering knee and ankle issues after missing practices earlier in the week. Seattle’s depth is limited; the only other tackles on the 53-man roster are rookies Amari Kight, who was recently promoted from the practice squad, and Mason Richman. Additionally, center Jalen Sundell has some experience playing tackle, both in college and during his time with the Seahawks last season.
Quarterback Sam Darnold, who has only been sacked 25 times in 451 dropbacks this season, understands the importance of protection from his offensive line. A clean pocket is vital for his success, especially against a formidable opponent like the 49ers. In their previous encounter, a Week 1 matchup in Seattle, defensive end Nick Bosa exploited the Seahawks’ line, pressuring Darnold into a game-altering fumble.
Darnold’s Previous Playoff Experience
Darnold’s playoff journey has been fraught with difficulties. Last year, he led the Minnesota Vikings into a similar high-stakes game but struggled, completing just 18 of 41 passes in a 31-9 loss. The following week, he was sacked nine times in a crushing defeat against the Los Angeles Rams, ending the Vikings’ postseason hopes.
49ers Face Similar Challenges
Adding to the drama of this matchup, the 49ers may also be without their star left tackle, 12-time Pro Bowler Trent Williams, who is dealing with a hamstring issue and is currently listed as “questionable.” Shanahan commented on Williams’ potential return, saying, “If Trent and the doctors OK it and Trent believes he can do it and get through it, then there’s no decision on my part and we’ll definitely have him up.”
As the Seahawks prepare for this decisive game, the absence of Cross looms large. Both teams are facing injuries that could significantly impact their performance, making this clash an unpredictable and highly anticipated showdown.
