Seahawks Anticipate Familiar Battle Against 49ers in Divisional Playoff Rematch.

RENTON, Wash. — The Seattle Seahawks will face a well-known opponent as they attempt to advance toward what would be the fourth Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.

Seattle, the NFC’s top seed with a 14–3 record, hosts the San Francisco 49ers (13–5) on Saturday night in the divisional round. The matchup marks the second meeting between the NFC West rivals in three weeks and their third postseason showdown overall. The Seahawks clinched the No. 1 seed and the division title with a decisive 13–3 road victory over San Francisco on Jan. 3, holding quarterback Brock Purdy and the 49ers to their lowest point total since Kyle Shanahan’s first season as head coach in 2017. Still, Seattle knows the challenge ahead remains significant. Purdy acknowledged the advantage of familiarity but emphasized the need for adjustments against the league’s top-ranked scoring defense. He said the recent meeting provides a clear reference point, while also allowing San Francisco to build in necessary changes. Defensive lineman Leonard Williams echoed that sentiment, noting that despite Seattle’s recent success, the 49ers’ offense has consistently demonstrated its ability to score. Williams said he remains confident in Seattle’s preparation and execution. The Seahawks enter the postseason riding a seven-game winning streak and setting a franchise record for regular-season victories. However, one of their three losses came at home against San Francisco in Week 1, a reminder that the margin between the teams is slim. Seattle’s offense faces a potential concern after quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a left oblique injury during Thursday’s practice. Although he was listed as questionable, Darnold expressed confidence that he will be able to play. Head coach Mike Macdonald, who also handles defensive play-calling, said he does not expect major surprises from San Francisco’s scheme given the short time between meetings. Preparation, he explained, is largely based on evaluating what worked and anticipating subtle adjustments.

San Francisco, meanwhile, faces another short turnaround. The 49ers played their wild-card game on Sunday and now must travel to Seattle on a condensed schedule, similar to the final weeks of the regular season. Shanahan pushed for a Sunday divisional game but instead adjusted practice and meeting schedules to prioritize rest. Linebacker Eric Kendricks said the team remains focused despite the limited recovery time, emphasizing the importance of the moment and the opportunity to compete in meaningful games. Seattle is also preparing for the possible return of wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, who has been sidelined since late December with a knee injury but returned to limited practice this week. His presence would help offset the loss of All-Pro tight end George Kittle, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon in last week’s win over Philadelphia. Macdonald praised Pearsall’s versatility and expects him to be part of San Francisco’s game plan if he is cleared to play.

The matchup also highlights the chess match between two respected play-callers. Macdonald’s defenses have consistently troubled Shanahan’s offense, including Seattle’s two regular-season meetings this year and a 2023 contest when Macdonald was Baltimore’s defensive coordinator.

Despite recent struggles against Seattle, Shanahan praised the Seahawks’ defensive cohesion and scheme, noting the continuity and talent that have allowed the unit to perform at a high level over the past two seasons.