Marshawn Lynch is set to make his return to the NFL this week and most important his return to the Seattle Seahawks against the San Francisco 49ers. It is a massive game for both teams as the NFC West division title is on the line. There could be no bigger circumstance for Lynch to make a return to Seattle.

Seattle was forced to look to the free agency market after seeing running backs Rashaad Penny, Chris Carson, and C.J. Prosise all go down with season-ending injuries. In addition to Lynch, the Seahawks signed fellow free agent running back Robert Turbin to add more depth.

Shortly after agreeing to return to the Seahawks, Lynch explained why he made his return to the field.

All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at some bold predictions for Lynch this week in a massive rivalry game against the 49ers with huge playoff implications.

Marshawn Lynch Will Carry The Football 20 Or More Times

Let's start this off by making it clear that Lynch was signed to have a big role. He wasn't brought in to sit the bench. Lynch is going to see a fairly heavy workload this week against a stout San Francisco defense.

When everything is said and done, Lynch will have carried the football at least 20 times. He may or may not have a big game, but he will be given the opportunity. Seattle is hoping to have “Beast Mode” back on the field as soon as possible.

He Will Rush For Over 65 Yards

We're not going to be crazy and predict that Marshawn Lynch will have a 100-yard rushing game, but he is still going to be able to pick up some tough yardage. Let's set the prediction at a modest, yet still solid, number.

Lynch rushing for 65 yards would be a win for the Seahawks. Being able to grind out three or a little more yards per carry is needed against the 49ers' defense. Any kind of run game will help take some pressure off of Russell Wilson's arm.

Beast Mode's Return Helps Power Seattle To A Win

Seattle is hoping to throw a wrench in San Francisco's plans of having the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. If they can come up with the win this week at home, they will do just that.

How tough would it be for the 49ers to have their big plans foiled by their arch-rivals? Marshawn Lynch may not be the reason for the win, but he is going to help. Come playoff time, Lynch might be able to handle more of a workhorse type of role.