<p>The <strong>NFC</strong> is wide open, but not precisely because there is no team that is a juggernaut. It’s all the way around, there are many elite teams in the National Conference. Now that all played their 2025 NFL Week 18 games, we have the<strong> final standings, and immediately, the playoff bracket.</strong></p>



<p><strong>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> locked the first seed</strong>, so they will have a bye week while the rest battle it out in the Wild Card round. This is how the standings look after 18 weeks of regular season action:</p>



<ol><li>Seattle Seahawks (14-3)</li><li>Chicago Bears (11-6)</li><li><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-eagles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia Eagles</a> (11-6)</li><li>Carolina Panthers (8-9)</li><li>Los Angeles Rams (12-5)</li><li>San Francisco 49ers (12-5)</li><li>Green Bay Packers (9-7-1)</li></ol>



<h2>How does the NFC playoff bracket look?</h2>



<p>The Wild Card Round will pit the Bears hosting the Packers. The Eagles will receive the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">49ers</a> and the Panthers will open the doors of the Bank of America Stadium to play the Rams. <strong>The lowest seed to go to the Divisional Round will visit the Seahawks.</strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260105_BUS_556665_Sam-Darnold-QB1-for-the-Seattle-Seahawks_95eb2dda.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Sam Darnold, QB1 for the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-536095"></figure><figcaption>Sam Darnold, QB1 for the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



<p>The Seahawks are the best team in the NFC thanks to their incredible stability. <strong>They had a 6-2 record at home and an 8-1 away from home.</strong> The team also ended the season on a seven-game win streak.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfc-south-final-standings-for-panthers-bucs-after-saints-vs-falcons-in-2025-week-18"></div>


<h2>The Seahawks as the first seed are very successful</h2>



<p>According to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> insider Ari Meirov, <strong>the Seahawks have made the Super Bowl each time they’ve finished as the number one seed</strong>. They did it in 2005, 2013, and 2014. In those three seasons, the Super Bowl was the final destination.</p>



<p>Having said so, <strong>they are 1-2 in those Super Bowls</strong>. The team will surely want to get that record to .500 if the trend of them going to the Super Bowl repeats. It would also be the ultimate redemption story of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sam-darnold" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sam Darnold</a>, who two years ago was seen as a bust, and now is on the verge of history.</p>

NFC playoff bracket and final standings updated after 2025 Week 18

NFC playoff bracket and final standings updated after 2025 Week 18 - Bolavip US

miniaturas

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a></strong> defeated the <strong>San Francisco 49ers</strong> by a score of 13-3 in Week 18 of the 2025 <strong>NFL </strong>season, a result that finalized the NFC standings and completed the overall playoff picture. The victory allowed Seattle to close the regular season on a high note in a matchup that carried major postseason implications.</p>



<p>With the win, the <strong>Seahawks officially secured the No. 1 seed in the NFC, earning home-field advantage throughout the playoffs</strong>. That positioning provided a crucial edge as the postseason approached, removing the need for travel and solidifying their status as one of the conference’s top contenders.</p>



<p>On the other side, the 49ers saw their divisional hopes end with the loss. San Francisco no longer had a chance to win the NFC West and <strong>dropped into the fifth or sixth seed</strong>, which meant opening the playoffs on the road in the Wild Card round.</p>



<p>With the outcome, the <strong>Seahawks finished the regular season with a 14-3 record, while the 49ers closed at 12-4</strong>. The result capped a decisive Week 18 clash that helped determine conference standings and fully shape the NFC playoff picture.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="783" height="272" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_555922_image.webp&amp;width=783&amp;height=272" alt="" class="wp-image-556024"></figure><figcaption>NFC West standings after Seahawks-49ers in Week 18 (via Google)</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="820" height="720" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_555922_image-1_6ccaf8b4.webp&amp;width=820&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-556025"></figure><figcaption>The 2026 NFL playoff picture after the Seahawks’ win over 49ers. (via NFL.com)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The opportunity the 49ers missed</h2>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happens-if-seattle-seahawks-lose-or-win-today-against-san-francisco-49ers-in-nfl-week-18-of-2025-season"></div>


<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">49ers</a> missed a golden opportunity with their loss to the Seahawks, as a win in this matchup would have pushed them into the top seed in the NFC and <strong>given them a significant competitive edge heading into the postseason</strong>. Instead, the defeat reshaped their playoff path and removed what could have been a decisive advantage.</p>


        

        


<p>Had San Francisco won, the 49ers would have secured an unprecedented home-field advantage. <strong>With the Super Bowl set to be played at Levi’s Stadium, the advantage would have extended all the way through Super Bowl LX</strong>, offering a rare and potentially historic postseason setup that ultimately slipped away.</p>



<h2>The Seahawks’ best playoff performances</h2>



<p>The Seahawks’ <strong>best playoff run came during the 2013 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season, which culminated in a Super Bowl XLVIII victory</strong>, where they dominated the Broncos and cemented their place among the league’s elite. That run was defined by consistency, physicality, and an ability to control games on the biggest stage.</p>



<p>Seattle also reached the <strong>Super Bowl during the 2005 season and later returned in the 2014 campaign</strong>, highlighted by a dominant defense and standout performances from Matt Hasselbeck and Russell Wilson. Although the Seahawks fell short in Super Bowl XLIX, those seasons remain central to the franchise’s strongest playoff stretches.</p>

NFC final standings and playoff picture updated after 49ers-Seahawks in 2025 NFL Week 18

Are Seahawks eliminated from playoffs if they lose today against 49ers in NFL Week 18?

Are the 49ers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Seahawks?

NFC final standings and playoff picture updated after 49ers-Seahawks in 2025 NFL Week 18 - Bolavip US

<p>The Seattle Seahawks have established themselves as one of the biggest surprises of the 2025 season. Although there were high expectations with the arrival of Sam Darnold, very few expected them to suddenly become <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> contenders.</p>



<p>Mike Macdonald has built an impressive roster led by one of the best defenses in the NFL. That has resulted in a 13-3 record and has them on the verge of securing the No. 1 seed.</p>



<p>However, everything will depend on the result in Week 18 against the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">San Francisco 49ers</a></strong>. That could determine whether Seattle will have the chance to play in front of its fans or will have to face an uphill battle on the road.</p>



<h2>Are the Seahawks out of the playoffs with loss vs 49ers?</h2>



<p>No. The Seattle Seahawks are not out of the playoffs even if they lose to the San Francisco 49ers, as with a 13–3 record they have already secured a postseason berth. Therefore, they at least have a spot as a wild-card team. Their worst-case scenario is falling to the No. 5 seed.</p>


        

        


<h2>What happens if Seahawks win today against 49ers?</h2>



<p>If the Seahawks get a win over the 49ers, they will be NFC West champions, clinch the No. 1 seed, and have home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. In addition, they would get a bye week.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/are-the-49ers-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-with-loss-to-seahawks"></div>

Are Seattle Seahawks eliminated from playoffs if they lose today against San Francisco 49ers in NFL Week 18?

What happens if 49ers lose or win today against Seahawks in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

What happens if Seattle Seahawks lose or win today against San Francisco 49ers in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

Are Seahawks eliminated from playoffs if they lose against 49ers? - Bolavip US

Are Seahawks eliminated from playoffs with loss vs 49ers?

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">San Francisco 49ers</a></strong> flew under the radar for most of the 2025 season. Now, thanks to six consecutive wins and a 12-4 record, they have a great opportunity to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.</p>



<p>To achieve that, the 49ers control their own destiny. A victory over the Seattle Seahawks in Week 18 would give them the No. 1 seed as well as the NFC West title. A few months ago, given the number of injuries Kyle Shanahan faced, that seemed impossible.</p>



<p>If that were not enough, a win over Seattle would bring a massive reward for the 49ers. They would have the chance to play a <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> at home, as Santa Clara is the designated host city for the most anticipated game of the year.</p>



<h2>Are the 49ers out of the NFL playoffs if they lose to Seahawks?</h2>



<p>No. The 49ers would not be out of the playoffs if they lose to the Seahawks, as they have already secured their spot as a wild-card team. The game against Seattle is only to determine whether they finish as the No. 1 or No. 5 seed in the NFC, in addition to the divisional title.</p>


        

        


<h2>What happens if 49ers beat Seahawks in Week 18?</h2>



<p>If the 49ers defeat the Seahawks, they will win the NFC West, clinch the No. 1 seed, and secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. That would mean that from this point on and all the way to a possible Super Bowl, they would not leave Levi’s Stadium.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-takes-a-historic-shot-at-49ers-with-shocking-message"></div>

Are the San Francisco 49ers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Seattle Seahawks?

Are the 49ers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss today to Seahawks? - Bolavip US

Are 49ers eliminated with loss vs Seahawks?

<p>The Seattle Seahawks knew that they only needed a star quarterback to become <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> contenders. For that reason, Mike Macdonald chose Sam Darnold, and the results were immediate.</p>



<p>The decision was very risky. Letting Geno Smith walk away to make a major change for the future. The Seahawks have ten wins in their last eleven games and an impressive 13-3 record.</p>



<p>Now, the Seattle Seahawks have an unbeatable opportunity. A win would give them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with the coveted No. 1 seed. The biggest obstacle in their path is the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">San Francisco 49ers</a></strong>.</p>



<h2>What happens if Seahawks beat 49ers today in NFL Week 18?</h2>



<p>If the Seahawks defeat the San Francisco 49ers in Week 18, they will officially win the NFC South and also clinch the No. 1 seed. That would give them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.</p>


        

        


<h2>What happens if Seattle Seahawks lose to 49ers?</h2>



<p>If the Seahawks lose to the 49ers, they would fall to the No. 5 seed in the NFC and would have no chance to win the NFC West. That would force them to play on the road at least in the Wild Card Round.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-takes-a-historic-shot-at-49ers-with-shocking-message"></div>


<h2>Are the Seahawks eliminated from playoffs if they lose to 49ers?</h2>



<p>No. The Seattle Seahawks are not eliminated from the playoffs because they have already clinched their spot. The only thing that would happen is that they would no longer have the opportunity to win the NFC West and would be the No. 5 seed in the conference.</p>

What happens if Seattle Seahawks lose or win today against San Francisco 49ers in NFL Week 18?

NFL News: Kyle Shanahan and 49ers could reportedly trade quarterback after final decision between Brock Purdy and Mac Jones

What happens if Seahawks lose or win today against 49ers in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if Seahawks win or lose vs 49ers?

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">San Francisco 49ers</a></strong> have quietly become favorites in the NFC West. <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kyle-shanahan">Kyle Shanahan</a></strong> has done an extraordinary job in a season filled with injuries, including Brock Purdy’s, to keep the team as a contender.</p>



<p>After a very inconsistent start to the season with a 6-4 record, the 49ers began to get healthy and now have six consecutive wins. In a historic opportunity, they could clinch the No. 1 seed in the conference as well as the division title with a victory over the Seahawks in Week 18.</p>



<p>That would give them home-field advantage throughout the playoffs and even the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong>, since Santa Clara will be the host city for that game. However, a loss could change the entire path for the 49ers in the postseason.</p>



<h2>What happens if 49ers lose today against Seahawks?</h2>



<p>If the 49ers lose today against the Seahawks, they would no longer have a chance to win the NFC West and would be relegated to the 5th or 6th seed in the conference. That would mean they would play on the road in the Wild Card round.</p>


        

        


<h2>What happens if 49ers beat Seattle Seahawks in Week 18?</h2>



<p>If the San Francisco 49ers beat the Seattle Seahawks, they will be crowned NFC West champions. In addition, in a very important detail, they would secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. This would include the Super Bowl, which will be held in Santa Clara.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-takes-a-historic-shot-at-49ers-with-shocking-message"></div>


<h2>Are the 49ers eliminated from playoffs if they lose today against Seahawks?</h2>



<p>No. The 49ers are not eliminated from the playoffs even if they lose to the Seahawks, as they have already clinched a spot in the postseason. In the worst-case scenario, they would finish as the 5th or 6th seed, but they cannot miss the playoffs.</p>

What happens if San Francisco 49ers lose or win today against Seattle Seahawks in NFL Week 18?

NFL News: Kyle Shanahan confirms who will be 49ers starting quarterback between Brock Purdy and Mac Jones for Week 10 game against Rams

What happens if 49ers lose or win today against Seahawks in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if 49ers lose or win vs Seahawks?

<p>The<strong> San Francisco 49ers</strong> face the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a> </strong>in Week 18 of the <strong>NFL </strong>regular season, looking to close the campaign on a strong note before the playoffs. As the postseason approaches, the 49ers rely heavily on one of their most important pieces, running back <strong>Christian McCaffrey</strong>, whose versatility is already creating concern for Seattle head coach <strong>Mike Macdonald</strong>.</p>



<p>That concern was evident during Macdonald’s recent press conference, when he was asked how the Seahawks plan to stop McCaffrey. The Seahawks head coach paused for several seconds before responding, <strong>struggling to put into words just how complex the challenge is when the All-Pro running back</strong> is on the field.</p>



<p><em>“All the plays. <strong>Terrible answer, but it’s by situation</strong>,”</em> Macdonald said, via 95.7 The Game. <em>“Who do you have on the field, who do they have on the field, where’s the ball, are you trying to attack, are you trying to hedge. <strong>But he’s definitely someone you have to account for at all times</strong>. They do a great job of moving him around.”</em></p>



<p>Macdonald added that McCaffrey’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways forces defenses to prepare for everything. <strong>The 49ers use him as a runner, receiver, and decoy, making him one of the most difficult players </strong>to game-plan against in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="555336" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555335_mike-macdonald_4995308e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Mike MacDonald of the Seattle Seahawks." class="wp-image-555336"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Mike MacDonald of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<p>Despite dealing with a back injury earlier in the week, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/Christian-McCaffrey">McCaffrey</a> is cleared to play in the regular-season finale. He enters Week 18 with <strong>17 total touchdowns and more than 2,000 yards from scrimmage</strong>, reaching that mark for the third time in his career and once again anchoring the 49ers offense.</p>



<h2>The importance of Week 18 vs the Seahawks for the 49ers</h2>



<p>The final week of the regular season is crucial across the league, and for the 49ers, it carries <strong>added significance as they pursue the NFC’s No. 1 seed</strong>. Securing that position could be decisive for a team widely viewed as a Super Bowl contender.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/mike-tomlin-and-steelers-have-reportedly-made-final-decision-about-aaron-rodgers-as-starting-quarterback-for-next-season"></div>

        

        


<p>General manager John Lynch addressed the importance of the matchup during an appearance on 49ers Game Plan, emphasizing the value of a first-round bye and home-field advantage. <em>“What the No. 1 seed gets you, two things. First, <strong>you get your bye week, so you’re one step closer to the ultimate goal</strong>,”</em> Lynch said. “You play one less game.”</p>



<p>Lynch also highlighted the impact of playing postseason games at Levi’s Stadium, noting that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">49ers</a> have thrived at home in January. <strong>San Francisco is 6-0 in playoff games at Levi’s and has reached the Super Bowl each of the last two times</strong> it earned the NFC’s top seed, reinforcing just how much is on the line in Week 18.</p>

49ers’ Christian McCaffrey raises concern for the Seahawks head coach ahead of Week 18 matchup

Chiefs’ Travis Kelce makes his support clear for Broncos QB Bo Nix ahead of Week 18

Shedeur Sanders makes important statement about his future as Browns quarterback

49ers’ Christian McCaffrey raises concern for the Seahawks head coach ahead of Week 18 matchup - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a></strong> are trying to get into the <strong>NFL</strong> Playoffs. However, a tough road awaits as they face the <strong>Seattle Seahawks</strong> in Week 17 and a loss could hamper their chances.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a> are one of the best teams in football, but the Carolina Panthers, are frisky. However, <strong>if the Panthers lose this game, their chances to go to the playoffs drop to 39%</strong>. If they win, they improve to 58%. The Panthers (8-7) are in a battle for the NFC South title with the Buccaneers (7-8).</p>



<p>A loss paired with a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> win would put the Panthers under duress. However, as both teams face in Week 18, the division would be up for grabs. The same would happen if both the Panthers and Buccaneers win. <strong>Nonetheless, if the Panthers win and the Buccaneers lose, the Panthers would clinch the NFC South</strong>.</p>



<h2>The Seahawks are an elite team</h2>



<p>While this game is in Carolina, <strong>the Seahawks are 6-1 away from home, the second-best team in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> in this scenario</strong>. This is a mark of an elite team. Not only that, but pretty much all key stats favor the Seahawks over the Panthers, as well as the Vegas odds.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_552749_jaxon-smith-njigba_1ff6205b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-545254"></figure><figcaption>Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>The Panthers are not a top 10 team in any offensive category</strong>. As for the defense, the Panthers are still not as great as a playoff team would hope to. Even on turnovers, they have 18 takeaways to 18 giveaways. It’s a middling team to the purest of levels.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happens-if-seahawks-lose-to-panthers-today-in-week-17-of-2025-nfl-season"></div>


<h2>The Panthers must pull another huge upset</h2>



<p><strong>Carolina has big wins like the Packers, Buccaneers and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a> this season</strong>. Those are statement victories against teams with high credibility and expectations. Still, the credibility around this team is not that high.</p>



<p>The reason for that is because <strong>the Panthers have also lost games to the Cardinals, and got swept by the Saints</strong>. Hence, this is a bipolar team that can upset any contender in the NFL, but also lose to a tanking team in the league.</p>

What happens if Panthers lose today against Seahawks in 2025 NFL Week 17?

What happens if Panthers lose today against Seahawks in 2025 NFL Week 17? - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a></strong> already clinched their playoff spot but that doesn’t mean that the Week 17 game against the <strong>Carolina Panthers</strong> doesn’t matter. After all, they are still fighting for something.</p>



<p>The fact is that the Seahawks are fighting to secure the first seed in the NFC but if they lose, all things could get difficult. <strong>If the Seahawks lose and the 49ers and Rams win, Seattle would then drop to the number six seed</strong> and the first seed would become difficult to achieve.</p>



<p><strong>If the Seahawks lose and the 49ers win but Rams lose or tie, they drop to the No. 5 seed</strong>. If the team loses and the 49ers lose but <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a> win, it also falls down to the No. 5 seed, but then the Seahawks would need to beat the Niners and have the Rams lose to the Cardinals to become the first seed.</p>



<h2>The Panthers are not an easy team to beat</h2>



<p>While not a Super Bowl contender, <strong>the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a> have shown they are a frisky team to face. </strong>Among their wins, they have beaten the Buccaneers, Rams, and Packers. The Panthers might not seem like it, but if taken lightly, they will beat you.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251228_BUS_552690_bryce-young-2_cea40767.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers." class="wp-image-519597" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers.</figcaption></figure>



<p><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bryce-young" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bryce Young</a> is not the best of quarterbacks, but <strong>the Panthers have put him in a position where he can do enough to win these games</strong>. It’s a sleeper challenge for the very favorites Seahawks.  </p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/jaxon-smith-njigba-gets-mvp-buzz-amid-remarkable-season"></div>


<h2>The Seahawks need to wrap the NFC</h2>



<p>Even if the Seahawks are one of the best teams playing away from home, <strong>becoming the first seed in the NFC is key</strong>. Not only because they will have the best chances to go to the Super Bowl, but because of what the context is.</p>



<p>Firstly, <strong>you play at home every single game and secondly, you have an all-important bye week to rest</strong>, recover, and reassess things for the playoffs. Hence, as soon as they can lock up the first seed, the better for the Seahawks.</p>

What happens if Seahawks lose to Panthers today in Week 17 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Seahawks lose to Panthers today in Week 17 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks</a></strong> are one of the best teams in the NFL in the 2025 season. The NFC West moved on from Geno Smith and signed Sam Darnold in free agency, kickstarting a new era in Mike Macdonald’s second season as head coach.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After a big 38-37 win over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 16, they boast a 12-3 record and the<strong> No. 1 seed in the NFC. </strong>They have a dynamic offense and a solid defense that make fans dream about a potential Super Bowl run. Darnold has found the perfect partner in third-year wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“JSN” has elevated his game this season, recording<strong> 104 receptions for 1,637 yards and 10 touchdowns</strong>. He is one of the best wide receivers in the league, and his performances put him in a solid position to compete for major NFL awards.</p>



<h2>Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets MVP buzz&nbsp;</h2>



<p>Sports Illustrated has Smith-Njiba among its MVP candidates. It has Rams’ Matthew Stafford, Patriots’ Drake Maye, Bills’ Josh Allen, and Chargers’ Justin Herbert.<strong> He is the only wide receiver on the list,</strong> which sums up how impactful he has been this campaign.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_551690_jaxon-smith-njigba_6aaacfad.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks" class="wp-image-545254"></figure><figcaption>Jaxon Smith-Njigba #11 of the Seattle Seahawks</figcaption></figure>



<p>“<strong><em>Smith-Njigba has been dominant all season and has played a pivotal role in the Seahawks being the No. 1 seed in the NFC with two regular-season games left,”</em></strong> SI writes. <em>“He won’t win MVP, but he deserves consideration from voters for his impressive body of work. He has a league-high 1,637 receiving yards, along with 10 touchdowns and 104 catches, averaging 15.7 yards per reception.”</em></p>



<p>The Seahawks have a strong case to win the<strong> Super Bowl</strong> this season. They are en route to secure the No. 1 seed in the conference, which would bolster Smith-Njigba’s case to win the coveted award.&nbsp;</p>

Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets MVP buzz amid remarkable season

Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets MVP buzz amid remarkable season - Bolavip US

<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle Seahawks </a>secured a major win on Thursday against the Los Angeles Rams. After losing their Week 11 matchup, 21-19, they stayed in the race to win the NFC West title, and their Week 16 win <strong>put them closer to that goal.&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p>Despite t<strong>railing the Rams 30-14 early in the fourth quarter,</strong> the Seahawks forced overtime with a 16-point final period. They won 38-37 after a 2-point conversion to improve to 12-3 and become the sole leaders of the division ahead of the final two games of the season.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Sam Darnold </strong>proved that he can rise to the occasion and lead his team to the promised land, going 22 of 34 for 270 yards and two touchdowns with two interceptions. Despite Matthew Stafford (29 of 49 for 457 yards and three touchdowns) and Puka Nacua’s (12 receptions for 225 yards and two touchdowns) big nights, the Seahawks made a statement in Lumen Field.&nbsp;</p>



<h2>Ernest Jones IV calls out Rams players after TNF win</h2>



<p>Seahawks linebacker <strong>Ernest Jones IV </strong>sent a strong message to the Rams players after the game. The Seahawks’ captain went in on his former team for laughing at Seattle before the duel was over.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251221_BUS_549146_sam-darnold-5_c32c8488.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Sam Darnold QB" class="wp-image-504186" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Sam Darnold #14 of the Seattle Seahawks.</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong><em>“They went to laughing in our face, and they thought this s— was over with,” </em></strong>Jones explained. <em>“…They thought it was over with. But around here we play until the last snap, last whistle.”&nbsp;</em></p>



<p>Jones doubled down during his press availability, telling reporters that the defense felt <strong>disrespected by the Rams’ antics.</strong></p>



<p><strong><em>“It’s disrespectful as a defense,</em></strong>” Jones added.<em> “Disrespectful to the game. There’s too much time left on the clock for you to be thinking it’s over. I won’t put any names on it, but they know, and we won.”&nbsp;</em></p>



<p>The Seahawks are in full control of their destiny, but <strong>their next two games</strong> will be challenging (at Panthers in Week 17 and at 49ers in Week 19), too.&nbsp;</p>

Seahawks defensive star doesn’t hold back against Rams players after TNF win

Seahawks defensive star doesn't hold back against Rams players after TNF win - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a></strong> suffered a painful OT loss to the <strong>Seattle Seahawks</strong> on Thursday Night Football of Week 16 of the <strong>NFL</strong> season. But it was more than just that, since star wide receiver <strong>Puka Nacua</strong> criticized the officials and now received  a hefty fine.</p>



<p>According to Jeremy Bergman of NFL.com, <strong>the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> fined Puka Nacua a total of $25,000 for his comments on the officiating</strong>. This was also reported by Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Nacua made multiple comments about the referees.</p>



<p>First, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/puka-nacua" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nacua</a> appeared on a livestream with influencers Adin Ross and N3on. He said the NFL officials were “<em>the worst</em>” and also said, “<em>These guys want to be … these guys are lawyers. <strong>They want to be on TV too</strong></em>,” Nacua said. “<em>You don’t think he’s texting his friends in the group chat like, ‘<strong>Yo, you guys just saw me on&nbsp;Sunday Night Football. That wasn’t P.I., but I called it.</strong>‘”</em> Then after the game, he tweeted another critic and soon thereafter deleted it.</p>



<h2>Nacua is incredible on the field, but he’s a problem outside of it</h2>



<p>Puka Nacua has made it an argument to be the best wide receiver in football. Just against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a> alone, <strong>Nacua had 12 catches for 225 yards and two touchdowns</strong>. He has undoubtedly become the best wideout in football.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Puka Nacua just tweeted this immediately after the game: <a href="https://t.co/RvfQgvla5E">pic.twitter.com/RvfQgvla5E</a></p>— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/MySportsUpdate/status/2001879779126186434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>Outside of the football field, it was a bad week for Nacua filled with controversies during the livestream, and now the fine. After the post, reporters told head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-mcvay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sean McVay</a> about it and he was not happy. “<em>I love him, we’re going to continue to put our arm around him and <strong>help him learn and grow, but we never want to do things that ever offend anybody, and I know he feels that same way</strong></em>.” While he defended him, he was visibly frustrated.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-puka-nacua-clarifies-post-on-x-about-referees-after-matthew-stafford-and-rams-lost-to-seahawks"></div>


<h2>The Rams are glad Nacua isn’t suspended though</h2>



<p>It’s a heavy fine, but the Rams will count on Nacua for the next game. <strong>Nacua is the best weapon in the NFL</strong> and his chemistry with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Stafford</a> is immaculate. Puka is putting historic numbers during his young career.</p>



<p>Nacua leads the NFL in catches with 114 and in first downs received with 73. He also leads the NFL in yards per game with 113.7. In fact, Nacua is so great, that <strong>he has the best all-time record in yards per game with 96.9</strong>. </p>

NFL takes action against LA Rams star Puka Nacua after harsh criticism towards officials after Week 16 loss to Seahawks

NFL takes action against LA Rams star Puka Nacua after harsh criticism towards officials after Week 16 loss to Seahawks - Bolavip US

<p>Puka Nacua and Sean McVay could not hide his frustration after the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a></strong> lost to the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a></strong> in overtime. Obviously, the main talking point was the two-point conversion by Seattle that initially failed but was overturned by the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-news-jerry-jones-says-referees-have-affected-cowboys-during-2025-season-after-loss-against-lions">referees</a></strong> after instant replay confirmed it was a backward pass.</p>



<p>The Rams’ head coach didn’t understand what happened. <em>“Very interesting. I didn’t get a clear explanation of everything that went on just because of some of the timing of it. I’ve never seen anything or never been a part of anything like that and I’ve grown up around this game. I’m not making excuses. We don’t do that. I don’t believe in that. It doesn’t move us forward, but we do want clarity and an understanding of the things that we can do to minimize that when we rejected the 2-point conversion.”</em></p>



<p>The Rams controlled their own destiny to win the NFC West and also to secure the No. 1 seed in the conference. Now, the path to the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a></strong> has become much more complicated, as it appears they will have to play on the road.</p>



<h2>Puka Nacua sends controversial tweet</h2>



<p>At the end of the game, Rams wide receiver <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/puka-nacua">Puka Nacua</a></strong> sparked another major controversy on social media with a post on X about the referees that he later deleted. <em>“Appreciate you stripes for your contribution. Lol.”</em></p>


        

        


<h2>Can the Rams win the NFC West?</h2>



<p>The Rams can win the NFC West if they secure victories against the Atlanta Falcons and the Arizona Cardinals. They also need the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">49ers</a></strong> to lose to the Chicago Bears and for the Seahawks to lose to San Francisco in the final week.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/puka-nacua-net-worth"></div>

Puka Nacua and Sean McVay send clear message to NFL and referees after Matthew Stafford's Rams overtime loss against Seattle Seahawks

Sean McVay, Rams make key decision on one of Matthew Stafford’s teammates

What happens if Rams lose today against Seahawks on TNF in Week 16 of 2025 NFL season?

Puka Nacua and Sean McVay send clear message to NFL and referees after controversial Matthew Stafford's Rams overtime loss against Seahawks - Bolavip US

Puka Nacua and Sean McVay send clear message to NFL and referees after Rams loss in Seattle

Puka Nacua and Sean McVay send clear message to NFL and referees after Matthew Stafford’s Rams overtime loss against Seahawks

<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a> head into a pivotal Thursday Night Football matchup against the<strong> Seattle Seahawks</strong>, marking one of the final hurdles of the 2025 regular season. While a Week 16 loss wouldn’t be fatal to their playoff hopes, a victory would put them on the doorstep of an NFC West division title and a coveted top seed in the postseason.</p>



<p>A defeat tonight would see the <strong>Rams lose their grip on the division lead</strong>. Los Angeles and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle</a> currently sit atop the standings <strong>with identical 11-3 records,</strong> while the San Francisco 49ers loom dangerously close at 10-4. Securing a “W” is essential for L.A. to maintain control of its own destiny and avoid a chaotic finish to the season.</p>



<p>The Rams enter tonight’s contest with momentum, <strong>coming off back-to-back wins over the Cardinals and Lions</strong>. They have been formidable away from home throughout 2025, dropping only two games on the road, the most recent being a narrow 28-31 loss in Carolina.</p>



<h2>Rams vs. Seahawks: head-to-head</h2>



<p>The Rams <strong>already have one win over Seattle this year</strong>, a narrow victory in Week 11 that served as the catalyst for a four-game winning streak following their bye. Historically, this rivalry is a dead heat; the all-time series between these two franchises <strong>is knotted at 28-28 </strong>dating back to their first meeting in 1976.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“It’s easy now to go, ‘Yeah, I knew this thing would be money!’ … Dude had never won a playoff game!”<a href="https://twitter.com/colincowherd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@colincowherd</a> looks back at the trade that brought Matthew Stafford to Sean McVay and the Rams <a href="https://t.co/tceQRkwAI1">pic.twitter.com/tceQRkwAI1</a></p>— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/2001719021817790827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



<p>However, the Rams have recently enjoyed a “home away from home” advantage at Lumen Field. They secured<strong> a 26-20 victory in Seattle in 2024 </strong>and dominated with a 30-13 win in 2023, giving them a two-game winning streak in the Seahawks’ backyard.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happens-if-seahawks-lose-to-rams-tonight-on-tnf-in-2025-nfl-week-16"></div>


<h2>Dominating the NFC standings</h2>



<p>The Rams’ 11-3 record is currently the best in the entire NFC. Their primary objective now<strong> is securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.</strong> While the Bears and 49ers (both 10-4) remain legitimate threats, the Rams and Seahawks continue to be the heavyweights battling for total dominance of the conference standings.</p>

What happens if Rams lose today against Seahawks on TNF in Week 16 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

<p>The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a> head into their<strong> Week 16 Thursday Night Football</strong> matchup with an<strong> 11-3 record</strong>, sitting comfortably in the second spot in the NFC West. Their strong standing puts them in an enviable position; even a loss to the <strong>Los Angeles Rams wouldn’t be catastrophic</strong>, given their massive playoff probability.</p>



<p>In terms of the postseason picture, a loss against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a> wouldn’t significantly move the needle. Seattle currently boasts a <strong>99% playoff probability</strong>, and even with a defeat, those odds are <strong>expected to remain virtually unchanged</strong>.</p>



<p>While a loss might not derail their season, nobody likes to lose. A Week 16 stumble <strong>would snap</strong> the Seahawks’ curre<strong>nt four-game winning streak</strong>. Ironically, their most recent loss came back in Week 11 against these very same Rams.</p>



<h2>Seahawks vs. Rams head-to-head</h2>



<p>In their most recent meeting earlier this 2025 season<strong>, Seattle fell 19-21 on the road.</strong> The Rams have also found success in Seattle recently, having secured a 26-20 win at Lumen Field on November 3, 2024.</p>



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Any time [Sam Darnold] sees things change after the snap, he&apos;s so hesitant. If that doesn&apos;t change, this team can&apos;t win a Super Bowl." 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/Realrclark25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Realrclark25</a> on Sam Darnold and the Seahawks ahead of their TNF matchup against the Rams 🏈 <a href="https://t.co/SuZNQscy74">pic.twitter.com/SuZNQscy74</a></p>— First Take (@FirstTake) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirstTake/status/2001677671458025818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



<p>In fact, the Seahawks<strong> haven’t defended their home turf against the Rams since August 2023, </strong>a game Seattle won 19-16 in overtime. Of course, the Seahawks team of two or three years ago was in a much different place than the contender they have become in this 2025 campaign.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/is-davante-adams-playing-tonight-for-rams-vs-seahawks-on-tnf-in-2025-nfl-week-16"></div>


<h2>NFC playoff picture</h2>



<p>Seattle enters TNF currently holding the No. 5 seed in the NFC standings. This puts them in a <strong>Wild Card spot ahead of both the 49ers and Packers</strong>. Since the Rams have already clinched a playoff berth, the stakes might feel slightly different, potentially giving a slight edge to the home team.</p>

What happens if Seahawks lose to Rams tonight on TNF in 2025 NFL Week 16?

What happens if Seahawks lose to Rams tonight on TNF in 2025 NFL Week 16? - Bolavip US

Latest news from Seattle Seahawks. Find out about all the news related to Seattle Seahawks on bolavip.com/en