San Francisco 49ers Pull Away in the 2nd Half, Crush Seattle Seahawks on Wildcard Weekend

The Seattle Seahawks came to play for at least a half in the first game of Wildcard Weekend against the San Francisco 49ers, but it didn't last. Despite surrendering a 17-16 first-half lead, the 49ers dominated the Seahawks over the final two quarters, scoring 24 unanswered points before eventually cruising to a 41-23 win.

Beat Seattle again! (and again and again) pic.twitter.com/W0SDouv35c
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) January 15, 2023

It was a total team triumph for the 49ers. Rookie quarterback Brock Purdy peppered receivers underneath and over the top for an efficient 324 net passing yards on 31 dropbacks. Running back Christian McCaffrey dominated with 119 yards on only 15 carries, and wide receiver Deebo Samuel totalled 165 yards from scrimmage. The defense also notched three sacks and forced a crucial red zone fumble that kept the Seahawks from taking back the lead in the second half. It was a joyful day for the 49ers stars and their fans.

As for the Seahawks, they'll have to comfort themselves with the knowledge that their future is bright. Quarterback Geno Smith has demonstrated himself to be a viable starting quarterback; he was solid today before his costly fumble, ending his day with 228 net passing yards on 38 dropbacks and adding 28 yards on four rush attempts. Wide receiver DK Metcalf proved he still has plenty of firepower, nabbing 10 receptions for 136 yards and two touchdowns. With extra first-round and second-round picks from the Denver Broncos in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Seahawks have plenty of reason to believe they can close the distance on the 49ers next season.

The 49ers will host the next highest remaining seed in the Divisional Round next week, which could be either the Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, or Dallas Cowboys.