Seahawks Soar to Top Seed, Shatter Franchise Record with Decisive Victory Over 49ers

The Seattle Seahawks have emphatically stamped their ticket as the NFC's top seed, securing a crucial home-field advantage throughout the playoffs and paving a strong path toward the Super Bowl. Their dominant season culminated Saturday night with a decisive victory over division rivals, the San Francisco 49ers, marking a franchise-best 14 regular-season wins.

Despite a 10-point margin of victory, the Seahawks showcased overwhelming control, outgaining the 49ers 363 yards to 173 and running 64 plays compared to San Francisco's 42. While Seattle left some points on the field – missing a fourth-quarter field goal and turning the ball over on downs in the first quarter – their defense proved impenetrable, ensuring these missed opportunities didn't come back to haunt them.

The 49ers' best chance to narrow the deficit evaporated in the fourth quarter when quarterback Brock Purdy threw a critical interception at Seattle's three-yard line while trailing by 10 points. This pivotal play effectively sealed the game for the Seahawks, denying San Francisco a late resurgence.

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, in his inaugural season with the team, delivered a composed performance, completing 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards. His steady play was instrumental in orchestrating the game's sole touchdown in the first quarter.

Darnold's outing was a stark redemption from a disappointing Week 18 performance last season with the Minnesota Vikings, where he struggled in a similar high-stakes contest. Reflecting on the difference, Darnold told ESPN in a postgame interview, "Learning from mistakes, and staying calm from the pocket," was key.

Meanwhile, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy endured a challenging night, managing only 127 yards and the costly late-game interception. His evening ended with a significant hit on his final pass, leaving him slow to rise, though he eventually walked off the field under his own power as Seattle ran out the clock.

With the top seed locked down, the Seattle Seahawks are now poised for a deep playoff run, carrying the momentum of a historic regular season into the postseason. Their blend of offensive efficiency and defensive tenacity makes them a formidable contender as they chase Super Bowl glory.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks fails to catch the ball against Ji'Ayir Brown #27 of the San Francisco 49ers during an NFL game on Jan. 3, 2026 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. (Matthew Huang/Icon Sportswire)

Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks carries the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter of a game at Levi's Stadium on Jan. 3, 2026 in Santa Clara, California. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)