Early Special Teams Explosion Sets Tone Seattle opened the contest when Rashid Shaheed returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown just 13 seconds in, marking the longest postseason kickoff return in franchise history and the fourth such opening score since 2000 [1][2]. The quick strike gave the Seahawks a 7‑0 lead and established momentum that they never relinquished. Seattle’s special‑teams unit continued to pressure San Francisco throughout the game.

Darnold Guides Efficient Scoring Drives Quarterback Sam Darnold, listed as questionable with an oblique injury, completed 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and connected with rookie Jaxon Smith‑Njigba for a touchdown, delivering his first career playoff win in his inaugural season with Seattle [1][2]. Darnold’s poise on the field helped sustain drives that extended the lead before halftime. His performance contrasted with the Niners’ offensive struggles.

Walker’s Triple Rush and Defense Stifle San Francisco Running back Kenneth Walker III rushed for 116 yards and three touchdowns, tying Shaun Alexander for the most rushing scores in a Seahawks playoff game and contributing to a team total of 175 rushing yards [1][2]. San Francisco entered the game without three All‑Pro defenders—tight end George Kittle, linebacker Fred Warner and defensive end Nick Bosa—and quarterback Brock Purdy managed only 140 passing yards, one interception and a lost fumble, while Seattle’s defense recorded two sacks and recovered a fumble by tight end Jake Tonges [1][2]. The combination of Walker’s ground dominance and Seattle’s “Dark Side” defensive scheme turned the contest into a rout.

Seahawks Advance to Host Next NFC Championship Contender The victory improved Seattle’s record to 15‑3 and secured a home game against the winner of the Bears‑Rams matchup for a spot in the NFC Championship, putting the Seahawks one win away from the Super Bowl [1][2].