Seattle Seahawks: Studs and duds vs. 49ers in Week 17
By Samuel Teets
Stud: D.K. Metcalf, WR
Remember when people were seriously concerned about Metcalf’s route running? I was one of those people, and now I feel like an idiot. With his Week 17 performance, which we’ll talk about in a moment, Metcalf brought his rookie season totals up to 58 receptions, 900 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. He finished in the top three among rookie wide receivers in each of those three categories.
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Against the 49ers, Metcalf made six catches for 81 yards and a touchdown. On the biggest stage, he shined brighter than fellow wide receiver, Lockett. While the physically freakish rookie still has plenty of room for improvement, he outplayed expectations this season.
Dud: Jadeveon Clowney, DE
When the Seahawks acquired Clowney from the Houston Texans in early September for Jacob Martin, Barkevious Mingo, and a 2020 third-round draft pick, they expected an elite edge rusher. However, Clowney battled injuries late in the year and failed to make an impact against San Francisco.
When the Seahawks and 49ers first met in Week 10, Clowney went off. After many underwhelming weeks, the former first overall pick imposed his will on San Francisco’s offensive line. He finished the game with a sack, five quarterback hits, a forced fumble, and a fumble returned for a touchdown.
Things went the opposite way in Week 17. Clowney made just one tackle for loss. In the biggest game of the season, the three-time Pro Bowler contributed only one tackle.