SEATTLE — In a crucial matchup, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith showcased his skills when it mattered most, leading Seattle to a 20-17 triumph over the rival San Francisco 49ers.
With just 12 seconds remaining, Smith executed a 13-yard touchdown run that secured the victory for Seattle, marking their first win against the 49ers since 2021. During the decisive final drive, Smith managed 54 passing yards and 29 rushing yards, helping the Seahawks (5-5) snap a two-game losing streak.
Although Smith’s overall performance was not his best, recording 221 passing yards without any touchdowns, it proved to be a significant and satisfying victory, especially since he had previously gone 0-5 against San Francisco in his time with the Seahawks.
“These are the most important games of your season,” Smith reflected after the game. “The way we came out and fought as a unit really shows our urgency. I had a strong belief in how we practiced throughout the week, and I knew we’d play well and get this weight off my shoulders.”
On the offensive front, Seattle’s line rose to the occasion following the retirement of veteran center Connor Williams and welcomed the much-anticipated return of right tackle Abe Lucas.
Defensively, the Seahawks also contributed to what could be a season-defining win, limiting quarterback Brock Purdy to a mere 159 passing yards, his lowest this season, and effectively preventing the 49ers from executing the run game, which had been instrumental in their earlier victory over Seattle.
The Seattle defense made notable strides against a potent 49ers offense that averaged 262.8 passing yards per game. With notable absence of tight end George Kittle due to a hamstring injury, Purdy struggled to connect with his receivers.
Linebacker Boye Mafe recorded two pass breakups, while rookie Devon Witherspoon logged three pass breakups along with eight tackles. The Seahawks’ aggressive approach also resulted in two sacks on Purdy and multiple quarterback hits.
Though 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings had an impressive outing with 10 receptions for 91 yards and a touchdown, he was largely unsupported by the rest of the receiving corps as Purdy faced tough resistance downfield.
On the ground, Seattle managed to contain star running back Christian McCaffrey to an average of 4.2 yards per carry, with his longest run being just 11 yards. The defense did not permit a rush longer than 13 yards throughout the contest.
“We played complementary football,” said Witherspoon. “Even when things started shifting, we didn’t waiver. We always support one another. It was crucial to remain united as a team against them.”
However, challenges remain on the horizon, particularly for the Seahawks’ running game. Kenneth Walker III had a modest outing, accumulating 54 yards on 14 carries for a 3.9-yard average. Walker has the potential for explosive runs but has not been utilized extensively within offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb’s scheme. With Lucas and center Olu Oluwatimi back in the lineup, opportunities may increase for Walker moving forward.
On a positive note, rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba continued to impress, following his standout performance against the Los Angeles Rams with another strong showing against the 49ers, finishing with 10 receptions for 110 yards. His growing synergy with Smith, alongside the return of a fit DK Metcalf, elevates the offensive options.
“Jaxon’s such a special player,” Smith praised. “He’s gaining confidence and has an instinct for the game that’s beyond his years. If he keeps progressing like this, he’s poised for an exceptional career.”
On the downside, WR Tyler Lockett has fallen off in production lately while Smith-Njigba has thrived. Lockett was limited to just two catches for 19 yards in this clash, following a 63-yard outing against the Rams and previously logging a mere 9 yards versus the Bills.
Over 10 games, Lockett is averaging only 47.5 receiving yards, on track for his lowest mark since 2017. He hasn’t surpassed four receptions in a game since Week 4, suggesting a decline in his effectiveness.
In terms of injuries, WR/KR Laviska Shenault Jr. sustained an oblique injury during the match, while CB/KR Dee Williams left with an ankle concern.
An interesting statistic from the game was the Seahawks’ disciplined play, committing only four penalties for a total of 20 yards, a significant improvement given they ranked among the top three teams in the NFL for most penalties this season.
Looking ahead, the Seahawks are set to face another NFC West opponent, the leading Arizona Cardinals, in their upcoming game.