Opening Kickoff TD Sets Tone, Darnold Leads Offense Rashid Shaheed returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, the longest postseason kickoff return in franchise history and only the fourth opening‑kickoff score since 2000[1][2]. Quarterback Sam Darnold, listed questionable with an oblique injury, completed 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and connected with Jaxon Smith‑Njigba for a touchdown in his playoff debut[1][2]. Kenneth Walker III added three rushing touchdowns on 116 yards, tying Shaun Alexander’s franchise playoff record for rushing scores[1][2].

49ers Hampered by All‑Pro Injuries, Purdy Struggles San Francisco entered the game without tight end George Kittle, linebacker Fred Warner and defensive end Nick Bosa, all sidelined by injuries, which limited its offensive options[1][2]. Brock Purdy completed 15 of 27 passes for 140 yards, threw an interception and lost a fumble, contributing to the Niners’ inability to sustain drives[1][2]. Trent Williams later noted the depth challenge of fielding practice‑squad replacements, underscoring the impact of the injuries on the 49ers’ performance[2].

“Dark Side” Defense Dominates Season, Earns Accolades Seattle’s defensive unit embraced the nickname “Dark Side,” a moniker voted on by linemen and teammates to reflect its intimidating presence[3]. Under second‑year coach Mike Macdonald, the 2025 defense led the league in scoring defense, ranked third in rushing yards allowed, and posted the fifth‑most sacks, marking a significant leap from the prior season[3]. The unit extended a 26‑game streak without allowing a 100‑yard rusher, a metric the team highlighted as evidence of its run‑stopping prowess[3]. Four Seahawks defensive players earned AP All‑Pro second‑team honors, with Ernest Jones IV posting five interceptions, one of the league’s best totals[3].

Seahawks Advance to NFC Title Game at Home The 41‑6 victory moved Seattle into the NFC Championship, where the Seahawks will host the winner of the Bears‑Rams matchup for a chance at the Super Bowl[1][2]. Lumen Field will see its first playoff game since early 2017, and the crowd’s energy is expected to bolster the “Dark Side” defense in the upcoming contest[3]. Seattle’s dominant performance, highlighted by special‑teams scoring and a balanced offensive attack, positions the team as a favorite heading into the title game[1][2].