Russell Okung injury opens the door for 49ers pass rush

Fooch's Update No. 3: Pete Carroll told Michelle Tafoya he does not expect Okung to return.

Fooch's Update No. 2: Okung is back on sideline, standing up, but not wearing helmet and Tafoya said he's still looking gimpy.

Fooch's Update: Michelle Tafoya reported it appeared to be a toe injury and he is "questionable" to return. She said Okung was urging the cart to hurry there as he seemed to want to get back to the game.

The 49ers and Seahawks always play a physical brand of football, and it is already taking its toll in the first half of Sunday Night Football. Seahawks left tackle Russell Okung was taken off the field and carted back to the locker room. He appeared to have some tape on his ankle, but on replay, it was hard to tell what the injury was. This followed Ian Williams departing with what has been reported as a broken ankle.

The loss of Okung is significant, as he defends Russell Wilson's blind side against the 49ers monstrous pass rush combination of Aldon Smith and Justin Smith. The absence was felt quickly as a couple plays later we saw Aldon Smith sack Russell Wilson to force a punt. The Seahawks appear to be moving tight end Zach Miller to that end for extra protection at times, but for now, the 49ers have a significant advantage. This will be a matchup to watch all night long while we wait for word on Okung.