49ers vs. Seahawks NFC Playoff Preview

49ers vs. Seahwaks NFC Playoff Preview

A familiar NFC West rivalry takes center stage this weekend as the San Francisco 49ers travel to face the Seattle Seahawks in the second round of the playoffs. Seattle earned a bye week after finishing the season strong, while San Francisco is coming off a stunning upset of the defending champion Eagles.

These two teams know each other well, and that history sets the stage for a physical, emotional playoff battle.

49ers Coming Off Emotional Upset

San Francisco shocked the football world by knocking out Philadelphia in the Wild Card round. Quarterback Brock Purdy stayed calm under pressure and helped guide the 49ers to a 23–19 win.

The victory didn’t come without heartbreak. Star tight end George Kittle suffered a torn Achilles and will miss the rest of the playoffs. Despite the loss, San Francisco showed creativity and toughness, including a surprise trick-play touchdown and clutch late scoring from Christian McCaffrey.

The 49ers now face the challenge of replacing Kittle’s leadership while staying confident after eliminating the champs.

Seahawks Rested and Rolling

Seattle enters this matchup well-rested after earning a bye week, thanks in large part to a seven-game winning streak to close the season. Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba had a breakout year and became the engine of Seattle’s passing game.

The Seahawks have already shown they can beat San Francisco, holding the 49ers to just three points in a late-season 13–3 win. Seattle’s defense played fast and physical, forcing mistakes and shutting down big plays.

On offense, Seattle leans on balance. Their running game wears teams down, while Smith-Njigba consistently moves the chains through the air.

Key Matchup: Can San Francisco Adjust?

Without Kittle, San Francisco must find new ways to attack the middle of the field. Seattle will likely focus on stopping McCaffrey and forcing Purdy to beat tight coverage.

For Seattle, the goal is simple: start fast, feed off the home crowd, and let their defense control the game.

What to Expect

Expect a tough, low-scoring playoff battle filled with hard hits and big moments. San Francisco brings momentum and belief. Seattle brings rest, confidence, and home-field advantage. With a trip to the NFC Championship on the line, this rivalry is about to reach another level.