The NFL playoff landscape in the NFC is about to become even more intense for the Seattle Seahawks, as they prepare for a decisive matchup against a division rival — but which team that will be remains a secret for now. And here’s where it gets particularly interesting... the outcomes from the opening day of the 2026 playoffs have shaken up the possibilities significantly. In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Rams survived a late-game surge by the Carolina Panthers, securing a narrow 34-31 victory thanks to a game-winning touchdown by former Seahawks tight end Colby Parkinson in the final minute. This win prevented the Rams from suffering an upset loss to a Panthers team that was initially 14 points down early but fought back fiercely to take a 31-27 lead.
Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers’ unexpected loss to the Chicago Bears further shaped the playoff brackets. The Packers led comfortably at halftime with a 21-3 score but ultimately lost 31-27 after an incredible comeback led by Caleb Williams. Williams orchestrated a remarkable rally, culminating in a touchdown pass to D.J. Moore after the two-minute warning. The Packers’ defensive lapses and questionable clock management during the closing moments played a role in their downfall, paving the way for the Bears to pull off an unlikely victory. The final score was 31-27, and the outcome was decided by the Bears’ resilient defense holding firm under intense pressure.
Seahawks Divisional Round Roadmap
Looking ahead, the Seahawks' next opponent will depend on the results of upcoming games. If the Philadelphia Eagles manage to beat the San Francisco 49ers, then Seattle will face the Rams once more in the divisional round. These two teams have already seen each other this season — the Seahawks edged out the Rams in a thrilling overtime encounter in Week 16, 38-37, a game that will be remembered as one of the most exciting moments of the season. The Rams, on the other hand, had previously defeated Seattle 21-19 in Week 11.
Alternatively, should the 49ers come out on top against the Eagles, then the Seahawks' postseason journey will lead them to a rematch with San Francisco. Seattle clinched the NFC West crown and secured the top seed after a dominant 13-3 victory over the 49ers in Week 18, reversing their earlier defeat at the hands of San Francisco, who won that opener 17-13 at Lumen Field.
The schedule for the next game — including kickoff times and exact dates — will likely be announced during the Sunday Night Football broadcast, adding to the anticipation.
So, strap in and prepare yourselves. The Seahawks’ path to reaching the Super Bowl will hinge on their ability to best one more division rival — possibly the Rams or the 49ers — in what promises to be a high-stakes rematch. It’s a curveball that seemed unlikely at halftime of their Chicago game, but this is the reality now.
For more updates, insights, and analysis on the Seattle Seahawks and the NFL playoffs, check out the following resources:
- Seattle Seahawks News
- Seahawks Playoff Picture
- Seahawks Playoffs Details
- Seattle Seahawks Schedule
- Scores and Results
