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49ers vs. Seahawks: A History of Shifting Power

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 16th 2026 at 5:52 GMT by Sporting News

A History of Shifts in Power

For decades, the narrative was simple: the 49ers, a powerhouse franchise boasting Super Bowl pedigree, routinely dispatched the fledgling Seahawks. The overall record reflects this dominance, with San Francisco holding a decisive 25-16 advantage. Early games were often one-sided affairs, a consequence of the 49ers' consistent contention and the Seahawks' struggles to establish a winning identity. However, the landscape dramatically altered with the arrival of Pete Carroll and Russell Wilson in Seattle. The Seahawks' emergence signaled a seismic shift, transforming the series from a predictable outcome to a fiercely contested battle for NFC West supremacy. The introduction of players like Richard Sherman further amplified the rivalry's intensity, etching their names into the folklore of both franchises.

Defining Moments: More Than Just Wins and Losses

The rivalry's modern iteration isn't just about the scoreboard; it's about the unforgettable moments and the emotions they evoke. The 2013 NFC Championship Game stands as a pivotal moment. The Seahawks' 23-17 overtime victory wasn't merely a win; it was a declaration of Seattle's arrival as a legitimate force in the NFL. The game encapsulated the shift in power, and the raw emotion displayed by both teams fueled a heightened sense of animosity.

Just as impactful was the 2014 NFC Divisional Round game. The 49ers' improbable 23-20 comeback victory, sealed by a last-second field goal, remains a classic contest. The play, and the surrounding drama, became synonymous with the rivalry, providing countless highlight reels and water-cooler discussions. The preceding game in 2012, popularly dubbed the "Fail Mary" game, further exacerbated the tension and laid the groundwork for the dramatic 2014 matchup. These games served as more than just playoff contests; they were defining moments that solidified the rivalry's place in NFL history.

Key Games That Shaped the Narrative

Examining specific games offers a deeper understanding of the rivalry's evolution:

• January 12, 2014: 49ers 23, Seahawks 20: This divisional round victory for San Francisco was a nail-biting affair decided by a last-second field goal. The comeback nature of the game, combined with the playoff implications, made it a classic.
• January 19, 2013: Seahawks 23, 49ers 17: Seattle's NFC Championship win marked the apex of their dominant run and signaled their ascension to the league's elite.
• November 23, 2013: 49ers 17, Seahawks 7: This defensive struggle showcased the 49ers' ability to adapt and overcome a previous loss, solidifying their resilience.

The New Generation: Brock Purdy and the Future of the Rivalry

Fast forward to 2026, and the rivalry continues to evolve. The emergence of Brock Purdy as the 49ers' quarterback has introduced a new dynamic to the competition. Purdy's unexpected rise and continued success have provided San Francisco with a fresh narrative, while the Seahawks are navigating a period of transition, searching for their own identity under a new coaching staff. This period of change creates an interesting dynamic, as both teams compete not only for divisional supremacy but also to define their individual trajectories within the NFC.

The intense competition for the NFC West title and the shared history of dramatic, high-stakes games ensure that the 49ers vs. Seahawks rivalry remains a cornerstone of the NFL's landscape. As both teams continue to build their legacies, the future promises even more thrilling contests and unforgettable moments.