Seahawks Secure Top Seed with Strong Defensive Performance

In a thrilling showdown at Levi’s Stadium, the Seattle Seahawks secured their place as the NFC’s No. 1 seed by defeating the San Francisco 49ers 13-3 in a game that showcased their formidable defense. The victory not only solidified their position in the playoffs but also marked the first time since 2020 that the Seahawks have claimed the NFC West title.

Zach Charbonnet led the charge for the Seahawks with a 27-yard run in the first quarter, setting the tone for a dominant defensive performance. The Seahawks’ defense proved to be a force to be reckoned with, shutting down the high-powered 49ers offense and limiting them to just three points. This win is particularly significant as it was the fourth season-ending game where the winner was guaranteed the top seed in the playoffs.

Seattle (14-3) now stands two home wins away from returning to Levi’s Stadium for the Super Bowl next month. The team has a history of success when it comes to the playoffs, having reached the Super Bowl in their previous three seasons with the No. 1 seed, including their only championship in 2013.

“We all have respect for the Legion of Boom, but I feel like we deserve some recognition at this point, too,” said defensive tackle Leonard Williams. “We call ourselves the Dark Side.”

The Seahawks have maintained an impressive record in their home playoff games, winning their last 10 matches in front of fans. Their only loss since the 2005 season came during the 2020 season when fan restrictions were in place due to the pandemic.

“It’s huge to be able to play in front of the 12s,” said quarterback Sam Darnold. “It’s unlike any other stadium in terms of how loud it can be and how tough it can be for the other offense. We’re really looking forward to being at home for the playoffs.”

The loss means the 49ers will head into the wild-card round on the road next weekend against an opponent yet to be determined. Coach Mike Macdonald’s defensive unit managed to outmaneuver a 49ers offense that had been one of the most potent in the NFL since Brock Purdy returned from an injury in Week 11.

The Seahawks didn’t allow a single first down in the opening quarter, generating three sacks and making a crucial defensive play early in the fourth quarter when Drake Thomas intercepted a pass that went off the hands of Christian McCaffrey.

“It’s a play I have to make, absolutely have to make,” McCaffrey said. “I expect nothing less but to make that play and it’s completely on me.”

Darnold provided just enough support for the Seahawks, who relied heavily on their running game. He completed 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards without turning the ball over once.

Kenneth Walker III ran for 97 yards, while Charbonnet added the long TD, helping the Seahawks finish with 180 yards on the ground, their second-highest total of the season. On the other side, Purdy completed 19 of 27 passes for 127 yards and an interception, while McCaffrey was held to 23 yards on eight carries.

The 49ers’ 173 yards gained were their fewest in any regular-season game under Shanahan, and they now head into the playoffs on the road. “We’re ready for it,” said Shanahan. “It would have been nice to have a home game here — or both home games — and get a bye. But it is what it is. This team’s been through a lot this year. Now we got to do it the hard way.”

The Seahawks controlled the first half, outgaining the 49ers by 127 yards and allowing only three first downs. However, they led only 10-3 at the break after two long drives ended without scoring. Seattle was stopped on fourth-and-goal from the 4 on the opening drive but managed to force a three-and-out that set up Charbonnet’s TD run.

“I love how we started the game,” said Macdonald. “Felt like we really set the tone.”

Jason Myers missed a 47-yard field goal attempt, going 2 of 4 on the night, missing from 26 yards late in the fourth quarter.

Injuries

Seahawks: LT Josh Jones, who was starting in place of Charles Cross, left briefly in the second half but quickly returned.

49ers: LB Dee Winters (ankle) and LB Tatum Bethune (groin) both left the game with injuries that could sideline them for the playoff opener. … LT Trent Williams (hamstring) and WR Ricky Pearsall (knee) were inactive.

Up Next

Seahawks: Will host the divisional round on either Jan. 17 or 18.

49ers: Will play a wild-card game on the road next weekend.