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

The San Francisco 49ers started their 2025 championship quest with a hard-fought 17-13 win over the Seattle Seahawks in an exciting season opener at Lumen Field. The game marked the return of star running back Christian McCaffrey, who missed most of last season due to an injury. The Seahawks also showed off their new offensive system under coordinator Klint Kubiak.

First Quarter: Early Fireworks

The 49ers were the first to score in what turned into a defensive showdown. Quarterback Brock Purdy, who just got a contract extension, led a strong 95-yard touchdown drive. This drive highlighted the team’s balanced offense. Key plays came from McCaffrey and tight end George Kittle, ending with Purdy throwing a 5-yard touchdown pass to Kittle.

Seattle quickly replied with their own drive, focusing on their running game as Kubiak's strategy came into play. Running backs Zach Charbonnet and Kenneth Walker III took on the challenge, with Walker gaining 20 yards on 10 carries in the game. However, the Seahawks' drive stopped near the goal line, setting the stage for an important second quarter.

Score after Q1: 49ers 7, Seahawks 0

Second Quarter: Seahawks Strike Back

Seattle's hard work paid off early in the second quarter when Charbonnet scored on a 1-yard touchdown run. This tied the game at 7-7 and showed how Kubiak’s plan to run the ball could keep their drives going.

Both teams had a tough time getting their offenses going for much 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. The 49ers had a big chance to score again, driving deep into Seattle's territory, but kicker Jake Moody’s 27-yard field goal attempt hit the left upright.

Seattle took advantage of this miss by quickly moving the ball downfield. Darnold connected with receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had 9 catches for 124 yards despite two fumbles. The drive ended with a 48-yard field goal by Jason Myers as time ran out.

Score at Halftime: Seahawks 10, 49ers 7

Third Quarter: Defensive Struggle

The third quarter was all about defense, with both teams finding it hard to gain yards. Seattle’s defense got an interception and had a good chance to score but could not get any points. The 49ers came back with a big play of their own, recovering a fumble from Smith-Njigba to regain some momentum.

San Francisco managed to score a field goal in this quarter, with Moody making a 36-yarder to tie the game at 10-10. McCaffrey showed signs of his old self, making plays as both a runner and receiver.

Score after Q3: Tied 10-10

Fourth Quarter: 49ers Pull Away

In the final quarter, the 49ers' experience shone through. After the Seahawks kicked another field goal to make it 13-10, San Francisco responded with an important touchdown drive. Purdy found tight end Jake Tonges for a 4-yard touchdown pass with less than two minutes left, putting the 49ers ahead 17-13.

Seattle had one last chance when Darnold connected with Smith-Njigba for a 40-yard catch to get into the red zone. However, the 49ers' defense stood strong, with Nick Bosa making a key sack and recovering a fumble to secure the win.

Looking Ahead

This win gives the 49ers early momentum in their goal to return to the playoffs, with McCaffrey's return giving their offense the balance they missed last season. The Seahawks showed that their new offensive system has potential, but they will need to limit turnovers and be more consistent in their passing game.

Both teams will be looking to improve as they prepare for their Week 2 matchups against division rivals in what is expected to be a tough NFC West race.