Seahawks Secure NFC No. 1 Seed with Dominant Defensive Performance

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The Seattle Seahawks are heading into the playoffs as the top seed in the NFC, thanks to a strong defensive showing that proved they can shut down even the most formidable offenses in the league. In a thrilling 13-3 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday night, the Seahawks demonstrated their ability to control the game and secure a crucial win.

Zach Charbonnet made an immediate impact by scoring a 27-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. The Seahawks’ defense then took over, effectively neutralizing the high-powered 49ers offense. This win marked Seattle’s first NFC West title since 2020 and placed them just two home wins away from returning to Levi’s Stadium for the Super Bowl next month.

Seattle has a history of success when it comes to the playoffs, having reached the Super Bowl in each of their previous three seasons with the No. 1 seed. This includes the franchise’s only championship season in 2013, which was powered by one of the most formidable defenses in recent NFL history.

“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 last 10 home playoff games, with their only loss since the 2005 season coming 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,” quarterback Sam Darnold said. “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 now head to the wild-card round next weekend, facing an opponent that will be determined after Sunday’s games. Coach Mike Macdonald’s defensive unit managed to confuse a 49ers offense that had been dominant since Brock Purdy returned from injury in Week 11.

The Seahawks didn’t allow a single first down in the opening quarter, recorded three sacks, and made a key defensive play 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, leading them to a Week 18 victory after a disappointing performance a year ago against Detroit. He completed 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards without turning the ball over once, as the team relied heavily on the running game.

Kenneth Walker III rushed for 97 yards, while Charbonnet added the long TD run. The Seahawks finished the game with 180 rushing yards, marking their second-highest total of the season.

Purdy completed 19 of 27 passes for 127 yards and an interception, while McCaffrey was held to 23 yards on eight carries. The 49ers’ performance marked their lowest-scoring game since a 23-3 loss to Carolina in 2017 under coach Kyle Shanahan.

The 49ers gained just 173 yards, their fewest in any regular-season game under Shanahan. Now, they will have to face the challenges of the playoffs on the road.

“We’re ready for it,” Shanahan said. “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 halftime after two long drives ended without punting.

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 a short field and Charbonnet’s TD run.

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

Jason Myers missed a 47-yard field goal attempt, finishing 2 of 4 on the night. He also missed a 26-yard kick late in the fourth quarter.