Frank Gore

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Gore rushed for 110 yards in the win including a 51-yard run that set up the game-winning field goal. In his previous two games against Seattle, he had only accounted for 58 total yards. Gore provided balance to the offense while running through one of the best defenses in the league.

If Gore continues to rush like he did Sunday, no one will be able to stop this offensive attack. If the 49ers meet Seattle again in the playoffs, Gore will need another breakout performance, especially in the unfriendly confines of CenturyLink.

Colin Kaepernick

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Colin Kaepernick recorded his first win as a starter against the Seahawks. Kaepernick did not put up stellar numbers against the Seahawks, but he led his team to a win in spite of adversity. He threw for only 175 yards and a touchdown, but a late run helped the 49ers milk the clock.

Just like many other quarterbacks, Kaepernick has struggled in Seattle. If the 49ers want a return trip to the Super Bowl, Kaepernick will have to perform in the raucous environment.

Jim Harbaugh

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Jim Harbaugh got a win over his longtime rival Pete Carroll. The two coaches have had bad blood between each other going back to their college coaching days. Harbaugh had the edge over Carroll this week, but a playoff rematch is what both coaches will savor.

Harbaugh had the edge because he did not take many risks. He played for field position, kicked field goals and was conservative with the play calls. Coaches that try and get cheeky with this disciplined defense usually end up paying for it.

In a rematch, Harbaugh will need to stick to the game plan and not get cute with the Seattle defense. If he calls the game like he did this week, the 49ers will be in the game to the very end.

Special Teams

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Phil Dawson hit four field goals in the win, and two of them came from 45-plus yards. The 49ers have had glaring holes at special teams in the past, but this year the kicking game has been sound. The return game was also effective in the game.

For San Francisco to win in the playoffs, Dawson just needs to do what he has been doing all year.

Home-Field Advantage

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Home-field advantage has been key in this rivalry for years. San Francisco held serve at home and avenged the loss at Seattle, but can the 49ers go on the road and get wins?

The 49ers are the most balanced team in the NFC and San Francisco will need that balance when playing on the road. San Francisco has the best chance of any team to dethrone Seattle at home because of the team's balanced attack and dynamic playmakers.