Why Seahawks Will Win NFC West Over 49ers

The AFC seems to be set in recent seasons with regard to top-tier teams, but the NFC appears to be up for grabs. And the Seahawks are doing their best to close the gap on division rival San Francisco and establish themselves as one of those top NFC teams.

The Seattle Seahawks are just days away from the start of training camp, and after a somewhat surprising and successful 9-8 record and second place finish in the division last season, hopes are high for another return to the postseason.

The AFC seems to be set in recent seasons with regard to top-tier teams, but the NFC appears to be up for grabs. And the Seahawks are doing their best to close the gap on division-rival San Francisco and establish themselves as one of those top NFC teams.

It's only logical to believe Seattle will be better than last year, especially on the heels of quarterback Geno Smith's brand new three-year, $105 million deal. Last offseason, Smith went into training camp in a full-blown quarterback battle with Drew Lock, who arrived via the same trade with the Broncos that sent franchise signal-caller Russell Wilson to Denver.

But now, Smith has not only established himself as a starter, but is coming off a Pro Bowl appearance and as winner of the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year award. Smith and coach Pete Carroll should now have chemistry, and be more familiar with each other's intricacies. 

Another reason the Seahawks might be better equipped to close in on San Francisco is because there are questions within the 49ers house. Namely, questions at quarterback. Mr. Irrelevant is irrelevant no more, as Brock Purdy came out of nowhere to lead San Francisco to the NFC title game. But Purdy is recovering from injury, as is Trey Lance.

It's still unknown who will start the season under center for the 49ers. The beginning of the season could be a huge question mark for coach Kyle Shanahan and San Francisco. So if Seattle can get off to a quick start in 2023, the outlook could be bright for the Seahawks to aim for a division title.

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