49ers Edge Seahawks 17-13 in Season Opener Behind McCaffrey's Return

The San Francisco 49ers kicked off their 2025 championship chase with a hard-fought 17-13 victory over the Seattle Seahawks in a thrilling season opener at Lumen Field. The game showcased the return of superstar running back Christian McCaffrey, who missed most of last season with an injury, while the Seahawks debuted their new offensive system under coordinator Klint Kubiak.

First Quarter: Early Fireworks

The 49ers struck first in what would become a defensive battle. Quarterback Brock Purdy, fresh off his contract extension, orchestrated a methodical 95-yard touchdown drive that showcased the team's balanced attack. The drive featured key contributions from McCaffrey and tight end George Kittle, with Purdy finding Kittle for a 5-yard touchdown pass to cap off the impressive opening march.

Seattle answered right back, leaning heavily on their ground game as new coordinator Kubiak's run-first philosophy took center stage. Running backs Zach Charbonnet and Kenneth Walker III carried the load, with Walker gaining 20 yards on 10 carries throughout the game. The Seahawks' drive stalled near the goal line, setting up a crucial second quarter.

Score after Q1: 49ers 7, Seahawks 0

Second Quarter: Seahawks Strike Back

Seattle's persistence paid off early in the second quarter when Charbonnet punched in a 1-yard touchdown run, capping off a drive that began in the first quarter. The score tied the game at 7-7 and showed how Kubiak's ground-heavy approach could control the clock and keep drives alive.

Both offenses struggled to find rhythm in the middle portion of the quarter. Sam Darnold, making his Seahawks debut, completed 16 of 23 passes for 150 yards but faced pressure from the 49ers' defense, including a sack from the relentless pass rush. The 49ers had a golden opportunity to extend their lead late in the half, driving deep into Seattle territory, but kicker Jake Moody's 27-yard field goal attempt hit the left upright.

Seattle capitalized on the miss with a quick two-minute drill. Darnold connected with receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who hauled in 9 receptions for 124 yards despite two costly fumbles. The drive culminated in a 48-yard field goal by Jason Myers as time expired.

Score at Halftime: Seahawks 10, 49ers 7

Third Quarter: Defensive Struggle

The third quarter belonged to the defenses, with both teams struggling to move the ball consistently. An interception by Seattle's defense gave them excellent field position, but they couldn't capitalize with points. The 49ers answered with their own takeaway, recovering a Smith-Njigba fumble to swing momentum back in their favor.

San Francisco managed just a field goal in the quarter, with Moody connecting from 36 yards to tie the game at 10-10. McCaffrey showed flashes of his pre-injury form, contributing both as a runner and receiver in Purdy's balanced attack.

Score after Q3: Tied 10-10

Fourth Quarter: 49ers Pull Away

The final quarter saw the 49ers' championship experience shine through. After another Seattle field goal made it 13-10, San Francisco responded with a crucial touchdown drive. Purdy found tight end Jake Tonges for a 4-yard touchdown pass with under two minutes remaining, giving the 49ers a 17-13 lead.

Seattle had one final chance, with Darnold connecting with Smith-Njigba for a 40-yard completion to reach the red zone. However, the 49ers' defense held firm, with Nick Bosa recording a crucial sack and fumble recovery to seal the victory.

Looking Ahead

This victory gives the 49ers early momentum in their quest to return to the playoffs, with McCaffrey's return providing the offensive balance they missed last season. The Seahawks showed promise in their new offensive system but will need to clean up turnovers and find more consistency in the passing game.

Both teams will look to build on this performance as they prepare for Week 2 matchups against division rivals in what promises to be a competitive NFC West race.