Seahawks Outlast 49ers in Divisional Round Thriller

Seattle's defense steps up to contain McCaffrey and 49ers' high-powered offense

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:07am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football game between the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the dynamic action on the field.The Seahawks' defensive dominance and the 49ers' offensive struggles are captured in a cubist-inspired illustration of the intense NFC Divisional Round matchup.Union Today

In a highly anticipated NFC Divisional Round matchup, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the San Francisco 49ers in a hard-fought battle, 24-20. The Seahawks' stifling defense was the key, limiting the 49ers' star running back Christian McCaffrey and forcing quarterback Sam Darnold into several crucial turnovers. Despite injuries to key players on both sides, the game lived up to the hype as these two NFC West rivals clashed for a spot in the conference championship.

Why it matters

This game showcased the intensity of the Seahawks-49ers rivalry, which has been one of the fiercest in the NFL over the past decade. The outcome impacts the playoff picture, with the Seahawks advancing to face the top-seeded team in the NFC. It also raises questions about the 49ers' ability to overcome injuries and whether their high-powered offense can be contained by elite defenses.

The details

The Seahawks' defense was the star of the show, swarming McCaffrey and forcing Darnold into two costly interceptions. Seattle's pass rush, led by Jamal Adams and Darrell Taylor, consistently pressured Darnold and disrupted the 49ers' rhythm on offense. On the other side, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith managed the game effectively, connecting with wide receiver DK Metcalf for a crucial touchdown in the fourth quarter.

  • The game was played on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Seahawks and 49ers last met in the playoffs during the 2023 season, with the 49ers winning that matchup.

The players

Jamal Adams

All-Pro safety for the Seattle Seahawks, known for his hard-hitting style of play and ability to make game-changing plays.

Darrell Taylor

Seahawks' pass-rushing linebacker who had a dominant performance, recording two sacks and several QB hits.

Christian McCaffrey

Star running back for the San Francisco 49ers, considered one of the most versatile and dynamic offensive players in the league.

Sam Darnold

Quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, who was playing through an oblique injury and struggled with turnovers against the Seahawks' defense.

DK Metcalf

Seahawks' star wide receiver, who caught the game-winning touchdown pass in the fourth quarter.

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What they’re saying

“Our defense really stepped up today. Jamal and Darrell were disruptive all game, and that was the difference-maker against a talented 49ers offense.”

— Geno Smith, Quarterback, Seattle Seahawks

“We just couldn't get into a rhythm offensively. Credit to the Seahawks' defense for making it tough on us all day. We'll have to go back to the drawing board and figure out how to bounce back from this.”

— Christian McCaffrey, Running Back, San Francisco 49ers

What’s next

The Seahawks will now face the top-seeded team in the NFC in the conference championship game, with a chance to advance to the Super Bowl. The 49ers' season comes to an end, as they will have to regroup and address their injury concerns in the offseason.

The takeaway

This game showcased the intensity of the Seahawks-49ers rivalry and the importance of strong defensive play in the playoffs. The Seahawks' ability to contain McCaffrey and force turnovers proved to be the difference, highlighting the importance of complementary football in the postseason.