Kittle, McCaffrey, Juszczyk return for 49ers in crucial NFC West clash vs. Seahawks

The San Francisco 49ers are poised to make a strong statement in their regular-season finale against the Seattle Seahawks, with key players returning from injury.

Why it matters: This pivotal matchup will not only determine the NFC West Division champion but also dictate playoff positioning, as the winner secures the No. 1 seed in the NFC and home-field advantage throughout the postseason.

• With a record of 12-4, the 49ers trail the Seahawks, who sit at 13-3, making this game critically significant for both teams.

What’s new: Tight end George Kittle is expected to play after recovering from a sprained left ankle, alongside running back Christian McCaffrey and fullback Kyle Juszczyk, who have returned to practice following their injuries.

• Kittle's presence adds a dynamic element to the 49ers’ offensive strategy, particularly in their west coast offense that relies on quick passes and tight end utilization.

By the numbers: Kittle missed the previous game against the Chicago Bears due to his injury but participated fully in practice on Wednesday after being limited earlier in the week.

• The 49ers have scored an average of 28 points per game this season when Kittle is active, showcasing his impact on their offensive efficiency.

What to watch: As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on how effectively Kittle, McCaffrey, and Juszczyk can integrate back into the lineup.

• Each player plays a crucial role in the 49ers' diverse offensive schemes, which include both zone running and play-action passing, designed to exploit defensive mismatches.

Yes, but: While the return of these key players is encouraging, the Seahawks pose a formidable challenge with their strong defensive front and capable secondary.

• Seattle has been known for its ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks, which could limit the effectiveness of the 49ers' passing game if not managed properly.

Zoom In: Kittle expressed confidence regarding his availability for the game, stating, "Absolutely. [I feel] fabulous. Great position for Saturday night to punch a 1-seed."

• His enthusiasm reflects not just personal readiness but also the collective urgency within the 49ers’ locker room as they aim for playoff success.

The bottom line: As both teams prepare for this high-stakes encounter at Levi's Stadium on Saturday at 5 p.m. PT, the implications of the game extend far beyond a simple win or loss, impacting playoff trajectories for both franchises.

• With the stakes elevated, fans can expect a fierce competition that showcases the best of what the NFC has to offer.