Seattle Seahawks QB Geno Smith on Playing San Francisco 49ers Defense: 'They Fly Around!'

The Seattle Seahawks face a tough test against the San Francisco 49ers, and quarterback Geno Smith knows that going against the 49ers' defense will be a challenge.

The Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers will battle for the first time this season with top spot in the NFC West on the line during Thursday's Thanksgiving matchup at Lumen Field. The Seahawks come into the game off the back of a 17-16 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, while the 49ers got past the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 27-14.

Seattle quarterback Geno Smith missed two offensive drives with a tricep injury and is in a race against time to be fit for the game. But as far as what he thinks of Steve Wilks' defense? It will be one serious challenge.

“I think you got to start up front, they got obviously one of the better D lines in the league, a lot of first-rounders on that on that front seven,” Smith said. “They have a really good mike linebacker with Fred Warner, and Dre Greenlaw is also a great player and then you look at the secondary, their corners are very aggressive, like to attack the football. 

"They like to really press your receivers, challenge your receivers, and they're a really good bunch, man, they fly around, they play hard, they make plays, and so, as always, every single week, it's going to be a challenge, but I love those challenges.”

It will be a tough challenge going against the 49ers defense, but the Seahawks boast weapons that can trouble Wilks' unit.

Much of it will depend on Smith's health and if he takes the field (which he is expected to do) and running back Kenneth Walker, who is listed as doubtful and isn't expected to play.

Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith knows the challenge the 49ers' defense presents / © Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With the likes of DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Zach Charbonnet, and tight-end Noah Fant, some weapons could trouble this 49ers' defense.

But with Wilks' defense forcing a turnover in every game this season except for one, which includes six in their last two games, Smith and the offense must be careful about gifting Brock Purdy and co extra possessions.

The 49ers' defense flies around, and Smith must ensure they stay grounded. Easier said than done, but the Seahawks, as they showed in the playoffs last season (a game in which they led at halftime), can match it with Kyle Shanahan's team.

Geno Smith Questionable, But Expected to Play vs. 49ers

It's a division game at Lumen Field on national television, with top spot in the NFC West up for grabs.

Buckle up.