San Francisco 49ers: 5 Toughest Games in 2015

January 10, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks defensive end

(56) celebrates after sacking Carolina Panthers quarterback

(1) during the second half in the 2014 NFC Divisional playoff football game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

2. Week 11-@Seattle Seahawks

Let’s face it, no matter who lines up on the lines for the Niners and Seahawks, the crowd at CenturyLink Field will always be a formidable foe. The 12th Man prides itself on being the loudest and most fearsome home crowd there is. Play calls are often difficult to communicate from sideline to the huddle due to the roar of the crowd.

It also doesn’t help San Francisco’s odds that all the main familiar faces are back in Seattle, hungry for another shot at a title. It goes without saying that losing the Super Bowl on a turnover from less than three yards away will stick with a team, and likely make them even more determined down the line.

To further the underdog status of the team, the 49ers will also have to try to find a way to stop the Seahawks’ newest evil toy bound to crush opponents in his path — tight end Jimmy Graham. The team traded their Pro Bowl center Max Unger in exchange for the massive receiving target.

The ‘Hawks traded for Graham during the offseason, after they all but jettisoned Percy Harvin from their receiving core. If Paul Richardson can stay healthy and learn from Graham, Seattle will be flying higher than ever this year.

Next: Week 3: Arizona Cardinals