Posted on Jan 04

Seahawks defeat 49ers 13-3; CMC's drop costs chance for comeback

Posted Jan 4, 2026

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the San Francisco 49ers 13-3, handing them their lowest offensive output of the season.

Why it matters: This defeat marked a significant setback for the 49ers, who had been on a strong trajectory leading up to this game. Their inability to generate offense could have implications for their playoff standing and strategy moving forward.

The loss dropped the 49ers to a 12-5 record, forcing them to navigate the playoffs without the benefit of a bye week.
With key players like Trent Williams missing from the lineup, the 49ers struggled to establish offensive rhythm against their divisional rivals.

What’s new: The 49ers managed only 173 yards of total offense, their lowest since head coach Kyle Shanahan took over in 2017.

Brock Purdy faced challenges throughout the game, notably failing to convert crucial fourth-and-short situations.
Christian McCaffrey's interception, resulting from a dropped pass, ended any hopes of a fourth-quarter comeback.

Yes, but: Despite the disappointing outcome, the team remains optimistic about its playoff chances.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the resilience of his squad: "This team has been through a lot this year. Now, we've got to do it the hard way."
Players like George Kittle expressed determination, acknowledging their loss but looking ahead to the next opportunity.

By the numbers: The statistical performance of both teams highlighted key areas of struggle for the 49ers.

San Francisco's rushing attack was also stymied, with no player exceeding 50 yards on the ground.
Sam Darnold, filling in for the Seahawks, contributed to Seattle’s victory despite a fumbled handoff that nearly cost them possession.

Zoom In: Individual performances played a pivotal role in shaping the game's outcome.

Drake Thomas's interception of McCaffrey was a turning point, showcasing Seattle's defensive prowess.
Injuries to key players such as linebacker Tatum Bethune and Dee Winters raised concerns heading into the playoffs.

What’s next: As the 49ers prepare for the postseason, adjustments will be critical.

They must address offensive inefficiencies, especially in critical third- and fourth-down situations, if they hope to make a deep playoff run.
Monitoring the health of injured players will be essential to their playoff strategy as they aim for redemption after this tough loss.

The bottom line: The 49ers face an uphill battle as they transition into the playoffs, needing to overcome both physical injuries and mental setbacks from this disappointing defeat.

Seahawks defeat 49ers 13-3; CMC's drop costs chance for comeback

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 4, 2026

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the San Francisco 49ers 13-3, handing them their lowest offensive output of the season.

The loss dropped the 49ers to a 12-5 record, forcing them to navigate the playoffs without the benefit of a bye week.

With key players like Trent Williams missing from the lineup, the 49ers struggled to establish offensive rhythm against their divisional rivals.

What’s new: The 49ers managed only 173 yards of total offense, their lowest since head coach Kyle Shanahan took over in 2017.

Brock Purdy faced challenges throughout the game, notably failing to convert crucial fourth-and-short situations.

Christian McCaffrey's interception, resulting from a dropped pass, ended any hopes of a fourth-quarter comeback.

Yes, but: Despite the disappointing outcome, the team remains optimistic about its playoff chances.

Head coach Kyle Shanahan emphasized the resilience of his squad: "This team has been through a lot this year. Now, we've got to do it the hard way."

Players like George Kittle expressed determination, acknowledging their loss but looking ahead to the next opportunity.

By the numbers: The statistical performance of both teams highlighted key areas of struggle for the 49ers.

San Francisco's rushing attack was also stymied, with no player exceeding 50 yards on the ground.

Sam Darnold, filling in for the Seahawks, contributed to Seattle’s victory despite a fumbled handoff that nearly cost them possession.

Zoom In: Individual performances played a pivotal role in shaping the game's outcome.

Drake Thomas's interception of McCaffrey was a turning point, showcasing Seattle's defensive prowess.

Injuries to key players such as linebacker Tatum Bethune and Dee Winters raised concerns heading into the playoffs.

What’s next: As the 49ers prepare for the postseason, adjustments will be critical.

They must address offensive inefficiencies, especially in critical third- and fourth-down situations, if they hope to make a deep playoff run.

Monitoring the health of injured players will be essential to their playoff strategy as they aim for redemption after this tough loss.

The bottom line: The 49ers face an uphill battle as they transition into the playoffs, needing to overcome both physical injuries and mental setbacks from this disappointing defeat.