San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi's Stadium. Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Christian McCaffrey's 72-yard run sets up 49ers TD

The Seattle Seahawks (6-6) might be in for a rough day against the San Francisco 49ers (9-3).

On the first play of the game, 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey barreled past the Seattle defense for a 72-yard gain. On the ensuing play, fellow RB Jordan Mason punched it in for a three-yard TD, giving San Francisco a 7-0 lead. 

RBs rarely win Most Valuable Player. Former Minnesota Vikings star Adrian Peterson was the last RB to win the award (2012).

However, McCaffrey is undoubtedly making a strong case. Through 12 games, he leads the NFL in rushing yards (1,032), is second in carries (210) and tied for second in rushing TDs (12). 

And he's one reason the 49ers could win their first championship in 29 years. San Francisco is first in the NFC West and ranks second in the NFL in points scored (29.3). As of Sunday, oddschecker lists the Niners as Super Bowl favorites (+430).

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