🚨GAME CHANGER: Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field – You Won’t Believe the New Kickoff Time!

Seattle, WA – For Seattle Seahawks fans and all NFL followers, the excitement and drama of the 2026 NFC Divisional Playoffs reach a fever pitch this week. The No. 1 seeded Seahawks will host the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field in a pivotal rematch on Saturday, January 17, 2026 in the 2025–26 NFL postseason. This game marks the third meeting of the season between these divisional rivals in a series defined by familiarity, intensity, and stakes that couldn’t be higher.

While the exact kickoff time and broadcast channel are still expected to be officially announced by the NFL after the Monday night game between the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers, here’s everything fans need to know right now about this crucial playoff showdown.

📅 Game Date

Saturday, January 17, 2026
Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers — NFC Divisional Round
Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
Status: Kickoff Time TBD (expected 1:30 p.m. PT or 5:00 p.m. PT)
Broadcast: Determined after Monday night matchup, but expected on FOX / NFL Network / ESPN / ABC rotation.

🕐 New Kickoff Time Update — NFL to Announce Soon

This matchup will be played on Saturday, rather than Sunday, a scheduling choice that surprised many NFL observers and fans of both franchises. Despite the 49ers’ plea for a Sunday date to allow more rest, the league firmly scheduled the divisional game on Saturday, affecting preparation timelines for San Francisco and energizing Seahawks supporters eager for weekend postseason action.

As of now, the official kickoff time is TBD, with the NFL expected to reveal it following the Monday night game conclusion. The game will likely be slotted into one of two time periods:

• 1:30 p.m. PT (4:30 p.m. ET)

• 5:00 p.m. PT (8:00 p.m. ET)

Once set, fans can confirm the broadcast on major network schedules (FOX, NBC, or ESPN/ABC) and via the NFL app/gamecenter.

📺 Broadcast Information (How to Watch)

NBC, FOX, ESPN, and NFL Network typically rotate playoff coverage. Because the exact network assignment depends on league scheduling decisions and is contingent on the conclusion of the Texans vs. Steelers MNF result, here’s how fans can be ready:

• National TV: Likely FOX / ABC / ESPN

• Streaming:

  • NFL+ (official league streaming)

  • FOX / ESPN app depending on network assignment

  • Local and national cable coverage based on region

International fans should check their regional broadcasters (DAZN, Sky Sports, TSN, etc.) as the MLB playoff models suggest flexible viewing. Once the NFL officially confirms the time and channel Monday night, social platforms and team pages will relay the announcement instantly.

🌧️ Weather Forecast for Game Day

January in Seattle is typically cold, wet, and breezy, and while a detailed forecast for January 17, 2026 is not yet precise this far in advance, historical weather patterns and general conditions for the area suggest:

• Temperature: Mid‑40s Fahrenheit

• Conditions: Likely cloudy with chances of light rain

• Wind: Moderate winds possible due to proximity to Elliott Bay

• Field Conditions: Lumen Field’s roof and turf are well designed to handle typical Pacific Northwest winter weather

Fans should plan for chilly conditions, dress in layers, and monitor localized forecasts closer to game day via official meteorological sources.

🏈 Rivalry Renewed — Seahawks vs. 49ers History

The Seahawks and 49ers rivalry is one of the most intense in the NFL’s NFC West. This Divisional Round matchup marks their third showdown of the season, and the NFC’s final four now includes three representatives from the NFC West—underscoring the division’s strength.

• Week 1: 49ers beat Seahawks 17–13

• Week 18: Seahawks beat 49ers 13–3 to clinch the NFC West and No. 1 seed

• Jan 17 Playoffs: Rubber match at Lumen Field

The all‑time regular season series tilts slightly in favor of the Seahawks, while postseason meetings are tied 1–1 heading into this game.

📊 Stakes — What This Game Means

For both franchises, this game carries enormous significance:

Seahawks

• Enter as the No. 1 seed with home‑field advantage.

• Win advances them to the NFC Championship Game—with a chance to reach their first Super Bowl since 2014.

• Coach Mike Macdonald’s first playoff game at home with Seattle adds storyline weight.

49ers

• Enter as the No. 6 seed after a dramatic wild‑card upset over the Eagles.

• Come into Seahawks territory seeking redemption after the Week 18 loss.

• A victory would extend a strong playoff run and deepen their NFC dominance.

🏆 Key Players to Watch

Seattle Seahawks

• Quarterback Sam Darnold: Leading an efficient offense that powered Seattle to a top seed.

• Wideout Jaxon Smith‑Njigba: Dynamic playmaker with big‑play ability.

• Defensive leaders poised to disrupt Brock Purdy and the 49ers attack.

San Francisco 49ers

• QB Brock Purdy: Known for precision and recent efficiency surges, capable of explosive drives.

• Christian McCaffrey and elite playmakers still dangerous even as underdogs.

• San Francisco’s defense, capable of forcing turnovers in clutch moments.

Both teams have storylines and matchups that could define the NFC Championship picture.

🏟️ Lumen Field — Stadium Experience & Crowd Factor

Lumen Field’s reputation for an electric atmosphere will be on full display. Seahawks fans—known as “The 12s”—have made this one of the toughest environments for visiting teams. A playoff crowd here isn’t just loud; it directly affects communication and third‑down dynamics.

Ticket demand remains strong, with secondary markets showing elevated pricing as fans rush to secure playoff seats. Expect standing ovations, crowd noise advantages, and historic chants echoing throughout Seattle in one of the league’s most imposing venues.

🏆 What Comes Next

The winner of Seahawks vs. 49ers will advance to the NFC Championship Game on January 25, 2026, facing the victor of Chicago Bears vs. Los Angeles Rams. A victory would push Seattle one step closer to Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 8, 2026.

📢 Final Notes for Fans

• Mark your calendars: Saturday, January 17, 2026

• Kickoff time: Awaiting official announcement (likely early or late afternoon PT)

• Location: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA

• Broadcast: TBD national network; likely FOX / ABC / ESPN options

• Weather: Expect classic Pacific Northwest winter conditions

With NFC West bragging rights and a deep playoff run on the line, Seahawks and 49ers fans alike are preparing for a seismic weekend of football. Stay tuned to official NFL announcements Monday night for the confirmed kickoff time and channel so you don’t miss a moment of this high‑stakes divisional showdown.