Seahawks Dominate 49ers 41-6 in NFC Divisional Round Playoff

The Seattle Seahawks delivered a stunning performance in the NFC Divisional Round playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers, winning decisively with a score of 41-6 on January 17, 2026, at Lumen Field. The game kicked off with a bang as Rashid Shaheed returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, marking the longest postseason kick return in franchise history. This electrifying play set the tone for what would become a dominant display by the Seahawks, who advanced to the NFC Championship Game for the first time in over a decade.

From the outset, the Seahawks showcased their offensive prowess, building a commanding 17-0 lead by the end of the first quarter. Quarterback Sam Darnold, despite nursing an oblique injury, led the charge with precision and poise, throwing a touchdown pass to rookie sensation Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Darnold’s efficient play was complemented by a stellar performance from running back Kenneth Walker III, who rushed for 116 yards and three touchdowns, tying Shaun Alexander's franchise playoff record. The Seahawks’ offense was relentless, scoring on their first two possessions and maintaining control throughout the game.

The 49ers, on the other hand, struggled to find their rhythm. Quarterback Brock Purdy completed just 15 of 27 passes for 140 yards, with one interception and a lost fumble. The 49ers managed only two field goals in the second quarter, leaving them trailing significantly. Star running back Christian McCaffrey was largely ineffective, with limited gains and even a negative yardage play. The Seahawks' defense, often referred to as the "Dark Side," was a formidable force, holding the 49ers to a mere 236 total yards and a season-low six points. They recorded three takeaways, including an interception by Ernest Jones and a fumble recovery, showcasing their dominance on the field.

The pre-game atmosphere was electric, with appearances from Seahawks legends like Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Doug Baldwin, energizing the famed "12th Man" crowd. This was the Seahawks' first home playoff game in nearly a decade, and the fans were ready to support their team. While there was some concern regarding Darnold's injury status, the team’s overall health was relatively stable, aside from injuries to Zach Charbonnet and Charles Cross during the game. The 49ers, however, were missing key players, including All-Pros George Kittle, Fred Warner, and Nick Bosa, which undoubtedly impacted their performance.

With this victory, the Seahawks not only advanced to the NFC Championship Game but also gained significant momentum heading into the next round. They are set to face either the Chicago Bears or the Los Angeles Rams, with aspirations of reaching their fourth Super Bowl appearance. The Seahawks' performance echoed the glory days of the "Legion of Boom," with a defense that seemed to recapture its former dominance. As for the 49ers, their season ended at 13-6, and they will need to regroup and address their shortcomings in the offseason. The questions surrounding Purdy and head coach Kyle Shanahan will loom large as they look to heal and reload for the 2026 season. Overall, this game was a testament to the Seahawks' resilience and determination, setting the stage for what could be a remarkable playoff run.