With the realignment, the 49ers will cut almost 10,000 miles off their schedule. They will travel 6,172 miles during divisional play instead of 16,286. 49ers general manager Terry Donahue said less travel will boost team morale. The regimen and routine that players and coaches keep is so very demanding. And, also, there's a physical aspect of not having to take a five-hour flight.
Fans can relate more with playing in Seattle than they do in some of the eastern cities.
The Seahawks could indeed become staunch rivals. Not only are they coached by former 49ers offensive coordinator Mike Holmgren, they also might include receiver Jerry Rice, who is expected to be released by the 49ers June 1. Rice visited the Seahawks last month. Mariucci, an assistant to Holmgren for four years with the Green Bay Packers, spoke Tuesday with his mentor. He's happy about it.