Seahawks Secure Big Win Against 49ers to Reach NFC Championship Game
SEATTLE — In a decisive performance, the Seattle Seahawks secured their spot in the NFC Championship game with a commanding 41-6 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday night. Rashid Shaheed opened the game with a remarkable 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, marking one of only four kickoff returns for a touchdown to begin a playoff game since 2000 and the longest postseason kick return in franchise history.
Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold, who overcame an oblique injury, threw a touchdown pass and achieved his first playoff win in his inaugural season with the Seahawks (15-3). The team will host either the Chicago Bears or the Los Angeles Rams next Sunday, with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line.
The Seahawks set the tone early, leading 7-0 just 13 seconds into the game. Darnold demonstrated his composure by directing two additional scoring drives before the 49ers managed to get on the board with one of their two field goals. He completed 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and connected with Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a touchdown in the receiver’s playoff debut.
The 49ers (13-6) faced challenges throughout the game, suffering one of the most lopsided playoff losses in franchise history. Missing three key All-Pro players—tight end George Kittle, linebacker Fred Warner, and defensive end Nick Bosa—San Francisco struggled to mount a competitive performance. Quarterback Brock Purdy completed 15 of 27 passes for 140 yards but was hampered by an interception and a lost fumble against Seattle’s formidable "Dark Side" defense.
Kenneth Walker III continued to shine, rushing for three touchdowns, which ties him with Shaun Alexander for the most rushing touchdowns in a playoff game in franchise history. The 49ers will need to regroup after this defeat as they prepare for future competition.
