Seahawks Dominate 49ers in Playoff Showdown
SEATTLE — Sam Darnold’s oblique injury was a big topic before the Seahawks’ playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. Fans worried when he left practice just two days prior. But when game time came, those fears quickly faded.
Rashid Shaheed electrified the crowd by returning the opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown. That set the tone for a stunning 41-6 victory. The Seahawks jumped out to a 17-0 lead and maintained control throughout the game, showcasing a powerful defense that has become their hallmark this season.
Coach Mike Macdonald praised the team’s performance, calling it “the most complementary game” they’ve played. This victory marked the 49ers’ worst loss under Coach Kyle Shanahan, signaling a shift in the competitive landscape of the NFC West.
Excitement brewed at Lumen Field as it was the Seahawks’ first playoff game with fans in nine years. The energy soared as Shaheed’s return ignited the crowd. Darnold, despite his injury concerns, played effectively. “Felt great,” he said, underscoring his resilience.
Darnold’s injury occurred during a practice drill when he felt discomfort in his left side. Although he was initially uncertain, he pushed through it for the game, which paid off. Completing 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and a touchdown with no turnovers, Darnold managed the game well, aided by a strong running game led by Kenneth Walker III.
Kenneth Walker III had a standout performance, rushing for 116 yards and three touchdowns. This was the fourth straight game the Seahawks rushed for over 160 yards, a significant turnaround from their earlier season struggles. Walker’s success came mainly on runs outside the tackles, showcasing the effectiveness of Seattle’s offensive strategy.
The Seahawks’ defense was equally impressive. They pressured 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy on 58% of his dropbacks, forcing three turnovers. Linebacker Ernest Jones IV was a star performer, with two key takeaways that shifted the momentum.
The win boosts Seattle’s hopes for a second Super Bowl title. Heading into the NFC Championship Game next week, Macdonald remains optimistic about injuries to players like Zach Charbonnet and Charles Cross.
With the Seahawks’ current form, their run in the playoffs looks promising. The blend of a stout defense and a revitalized offense could lead them a step closer to another Lombardi Trophy.
