Seahawks lock division crown and top playoff seed Seattle’s 13‑3 win over San Francisco clinched the NFC West and secured the conference’s No. 1 seed, the team’s first division title since 2020 and guaranteeing a first‑round bye[1][2]. The victory also positions Seattle to host the divisional round on Jan. 17 or 18, while the 49ers head to the wild‑card round on the road[1][2]. Both outlets note the win gives Seattle home‑field advantage through the playoffs if it continues to advance.

Run‑heavy offense controls clock and yardage Seattle ran the ball 39 times for 180 yards, the second‑most rushing total of the season, with Zach Charbonnet and Kenneth Walker combining for 230 yards on 40 touches[1][2]. Charbonnet’s 27‑yard touchdown run opened the scoring, and Walker contributed 97 rushing yards, allowing the Seahawks to dominate time of possession[2]. The ground game was highlighted as the backbone of Seattle’s offense, keeping the 49ers off balance throughout the contest.

Defense limits 49ers to minimal production Seattle’s defense allowed only nine first downs and 173 total yards, sacking quarterback Brock Purdy three times and hitting him eight times, resulting in a bloody thumb and a stinger[1]. Drake Thomas intercepted a pass at Seattle’s 3‑yard line in the fourth quarter, sealing a key turnover[2]. The defensive pressure forced the 49ers into a low‑output attack, contributing directly to the shutout.

Playoff schedule sets Seattle for home advantage With the No. 1 seed, Seattle will enjoy a bye week before hosting its first playoff game, while the 49ers must travel for the wild‑card round[1][2]. The Seahawks could secure home‑field advantage for the Super Bowl if they win two more games, underscoring the strategic importance of the victory[2].