On January 2, 2026, at 8:42 a.m. PT, the San Francisco 49ers and the Seattle Seahawks are set to clash in a pivotal matchup at Levi’s Stadium this Saturday. This Week 18 showdown is significant as it will determine the winner of the NFC West and the top seed in the conference.
The 49ers’ offensive lineup presents multiple challenges for the Seahawks, with running back Christian McCaffrey being a key focal point. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald expressed the complexity of limiting McCaffrey’s influence on the game. “All the plays,” he stated. “Terrible answer, but it’s by situation. Someone you have to account for at all times. He’s someone they move around and can do everything. It’s a great challenge.”
Despite a less efficient season in 2025, where he averaged 3.9 yards per carry, McCaffrey has demonstrated his prowess with 1,179 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, alongside 96 catches for 890 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, earning him a place in his fourth Pro Bowl. Over the past two weeks, McCaffrey has showcased exceptional form, recording 117 yards on 5.6 yards per carry with two touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts, and 140 yards with another touchdown on 6.1 yards per attempt against the Chicago Bears.
As anticipation builds for this crucial divisional match, the performance of players like McCaffrey could prove decisive in shaping the playoff landscape. Fans are eager to see who will emerge victorious in this high-stakes contest.