Seahawks' Richard Sherman: 49ers got 'benefit of a few calls'

Richard Sherman (left) was called for two of Seattle's nine penalties. (Brian Bahr/Getty Images)

The Seahawks lost only their second game of the season on Sunday, a 19-17 decision in San Francisco.

Loquacious Seattle cornerback Richard Sherman thinks the loss can be pinned on the officials.

“We didn’t project it to be this way,” Sherman, who had three tackles, said after the game. “We expected to blow them out, but they got the benefit of a few calls tonight throughout the game and that helps you, especially on third down. We will see them again and it will be a different result.”

SI WIRE: Peyton Manning most talked about public figure on Facebook in 2013

Seattle had nine penalties for 85 yards, including two holding penalties on Sherman, both on third down. The first led to a second-quarter field goal, and the second was declined because Anquan Boldin caught a 27-yard pass. San Francisco scored a touchdown on the drive.

“The penalties, that is what made the difference today,” Sherman said.

The 49ers were flagged seven times for 70 yards.

Sherman is tied for fifth in the league with four interceptions and he has 16 interceptions in three NFL seasons.

Seattle (11-2) still has the best record in the NFC, one game ahead of the Saints.

SI WIRE: Cardinals rookie Tyrann Mathieu tore ACL in Sunday's win