Posted on Jan 04

Seahawks secure NFC's No. 1 seed with win over 49ers; Darnold shines

Posted Jan 4, 2026

The Seattle Seahawks secured the NFC's No. 1 seed with a decisive 13-3 victory over the San Francisco 49ers, positioning themselves for a strong playoff run.

Why it matters: With this win, the Seahawks not only clinched a first-round playoff bye but also showcased their dominance heading into the postseason.

This victory marks the Seahawks' seventh consecutive win, demonstrating their momentum and resilience as they prepare for the playoffs.
The win solidifies Sam Darnold’s role in leading a team that has experienced significant transitions this season.

What’s new: The Seahawks success was largely attributed to Sam Darnold's calm under pressure and effective game management.

Darnold completed 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards without throwing a touchdown or committing a turnover, highlighting his ability to execute the game plan effectively.
This performance echoes his past leadership, having previously led the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record and a Pro Bowl selection.

By the numbers: The Seahawks have demonstrated impressive road performance under head coach Mike Macdonald.

They improved to an NFL-best 15-2 on the road over two seasons, including an outstanding 8-1 record this year.
Their defense held the 49ers to just three points, showcasing a dominant effort that could prove crucial in the playoffs.

Between the lines: Darnold emphasized teamwork as a key to their success, recognizing the contributions of both the offensive line and running backs.

"It was a total team effort tonight," he stated, underscoring the importance of collective play in achieving victory.
His acknowledgment of the offensive line reflects a commitment to a balanced attack, crucial in modern offensive schemes like the West Coast offense.

What to watch: As the Seahawks prepare for the playoffs, their performance will be closely monitored by analysts and fans alike.

With home-field advantage secured, they could potentially return to Levi's Stadium for Super Bowl LX, a rematch that would be a compelling storyline.
The integration of Darnold into the team's dynamics will be pivotal as they face tougher competition ahead.

The bottom line: Seattle's ability to maintain momentum through strategic execution and teamwork will be essential as they advance in the playoffs.

If Darnold continues to manage games effectively while leveraging the strengths of his teammates, the Seahawks could emerge as serious contenders for the championship.

Seahawks secure NFC's No. 1 seed with win over 49ers; Darnold shines

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 4, 2026

The Seattle Seahawks secured the NFC's No. 1 seed with a decisive 13-3 victory over the San Francisco 49ers, positioning themselves for a strong playoff run.

Why it matters: With this win, the Seahawks not only clinched a first-round playoff bye but also showcased their dominance heading into the postseason.

This victory marks the Seahawks' seventh consecutive win, demonstrating their momentum and resilience as they prepare for the playoffs.

The win solidifies Sam Darnold’s role in leading a team that has experienced significant transitions this season.

What’s new: The Seahawks success was largely attributed to Sam Darnold's calm under pressure and effective game management.

Darnold completed 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards without throwing a touchdown or committing a turnover, highlighting his ability to execute the game plan effectively.

This performance echoes his past leadership, having previously led the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record and a Pro Bowl selection.

By the numbers: The Seahawks have demonstrated impressive road performance under head coach Mike Macdonald.

They improved to an NFL-best 15-2 on the road over two seasons, including an outstanding 8-1 record this year.

Their defense held the 49ers to just three points, showcasing a dominant effort that could prove crucial in the playoffs.

Between the lines: Darnold emphasized teamwork as a key to their success, recognizing the contributions of both the offensive line and running backs.

"It was a total team effort tonight," he stated, underscoring the importance of collective play in achieving victory.

His acknowledgment of the offensive line reflects a commitment to a balanced attack, crucial in modern offensive schemes like the West Coast offense.

What to watch: As the Seahawks prepare for the playoffs, their performance will be closely monitored by analysts and fans alike.

With home-field advantage secured, they could potentially return to Levi's Stadium for Super Bowl LX, a rematch that would be a compelling storyline.

The integration of Darnold into the team's dynamics will be pivotal as they face tougher competition ahead.

The bottom line: Seattle's ability to maintain momentum through strategic execution and teamwork will be essential as they advance in the playoffs.

If Darnold continues to manage games effectively while leveraging the strengths of his teammates, the Seahawks could emerge as serious contenders for the championship.