Seahawks Claim NFC’s Top Seed with Win Over 49ers

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — In a decisive matchup, Zach Charbonnet rushed for a 27-yard touchdown in the first quarter, leading the Seattle Seahawks to a 13-3 victory against the San Francisco 49ers. This win not only showcased Seattle’s defensive prowess, but also clinched the No. 1 seed for the upcoming NFC playoffs.

With a record of 14-3, the Seahawks emerged as divisional champions for the first time since 2020, marking their fourth historical victory over the 49ers (12-5) in a season finale that determined the top playoff seed. Now, they stand just two wins away from a trip back to Levi’s Stadium for the Super Bowl next month.

This loss leaves the 49ers preparing for the Wild Card Round next weekend, a fate that will be finalized after the games on Sunday.

Seattle’s defense, led by Coach Mike McDonald, effectively disrupted San Francisco’s offense, which had been the league’s best since quarterback Brock Purdy returned from injury in Week 11.

The Seahawks dominated the first quarter, not conceding a single first down, recording three sacks, and making a game-changing interception by Drake Thomas early in the fourth quarter that thwarted a promising 49ers drive deep in Seahawks territory.

Quarterback Sam Darnold performed well during this critical game, completing 20 of 26 passes for 198 yards while Seattle heavily leaned on their running game. Kenneth Walker III rushed for 97 yards, and Charbonnet’s touchdown highlighted a strong performance, resulting in a total of 180 rushing yards for the team—its second-best mark of the season.

Purdy, however, struggled, throwing for 127 yards with one interception as Christian McCaffrey managed only 23 yards on eight carries. This marked the 49ers’ lowest offensive output since a 23-3 defeat to Carolina in 2017 during Kyle Shanahan’s first game as head coach.

The 49ers’ 173 total yards represented a dismal performance under Shanahan’s leadership, reflecting their inability to find rhythm during the game.

Seattle clearly controlled the first half, outgaining the 49ers significantly but only led 10-3 at halftime. Despite a couple of promising drives, the Seahawks could not extend their lead, and Jason Myers notably missed a 47-yard field goal attempt, going 2-for-4 in the game.

Ultimately, Seattle managed to convert a fourth-and-goal opportunity into Charbonnet’s touchdown run, turning the tide in their favor and sealing their victory.