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Seahawks playing for big stakes in finale vs. 49ers Sunday

Seahawks are fighting for the possibility of a first-round bye while the 49ers are playing out the string of a disappointing season.
Credit: AP
Seattle Seahawks tight end Jacob Hollister (86), top, celebrates with teammates after he caught a pass for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Scott Eklund)

GLENDALE, Ariz. — The stakes for this season’s finale between fierce NFC West rivals Seattle and San Francisco are far more one-sided that a year ago. 

Instead of a prime-time showdown for a division title the Seahawks are fighting for the possibility of a first-round bye while the 49ers are playing out the string of a disappointing season. The Niners made it to the Super Bowl last season.

The Seahawks can earn the top seed in the NFC playoffs and a first-round bye with a win over the Niners and losses by Green Bay and New Orleans. 

Seattle will rest veteran tight end Greg Olsen on Sunday. Head coach Pete Carroll says Olsen “tweaked” his foot last week against the Los Angeles Rams. Olsen returned last week after missing a month due to a torn plantar fascia in his left foot. Carroll said the move is precautionary in the hopes Olsen is ready for next week, with the Seahawks likely hosting a playoff game.

Running back Carlos Hyde will also miss the game with an illness that is not COVID.   However, starting right tackle Brandon Shell and defensive back Damarious Randall have been placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list after being in close contact with someone outside the team who tested positive.

The “home” game for the 49ers will be played in Glendale, Arizona, due to COVID-19 restrictions in Santa Clara County. 

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