Seahawks vs 49ers: Week 5 NFL Preview
The Seattle Seahawks host the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, October 11, at Lumen Field in a major NFC West matchup during Week 5 of the 2026 NFL regular season.
San Francisco enters the game with a perfect 4-0 record, while Seattle is 3-1. With the NFC West standings at stake, this divisional meeting offers both teams an important opportunity to strengthen their position early in the season.
San Francisco 49ers: Protecting an Undefeated Start
The 49ers have won their first four games and will try to keep their momentum going on the road. Quarterback Brock Purdy leads an offense that combines efficient passing with a productive running game and the ability to exploit defensive mismatches.
Christian McCaffrey remains a key part of the offense because of his versatility as both a runner and receiver. Tight end George Kittle can also help move the chains and create opportunities in important situations.
San Francisco will have to adjust to several absences. Defensive end Nick Bosa and fullback Kyle Juszczyk are among the players ruled out for this matchup. The defense will need contributions from its available personnel to contain Seattle's offensive playmakers.
Seattle Seahawks: Making Home Field Count
Seattle enters Week 5 with a 3-1 record after defeating the Los Angeles Chargers 30-23. The game featured numerous penalties and momentum swings, making discipline an important point of emphasis heading into the divisional showdown.
Quarterback Sam Darnold will look to lead a more consistent offensive performance. Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is a key player to watch because of his ability to gain separation and create yards after the catch. Rashid Shaheed adds speed and versatility to the offense.
The Seahawks will need to adjust their rushing attack with running back Zach Charbonnet unavailable. Cutting down on penalties will also be essential against an undefeated opponent that has been effective at sustaining drives.
Key Matchup Factors
San Francisco's balanced offense will test Seattle's ability to defend both the run and the pass. The Seahawks must limit the space available to McCaffrey and Kittle while preventing Purdy from consistently finding open receivers.
On the other side, Seattle needs to protect the football and give Darnold enough time to connect with his receivers. Smith-Njigba could play an important role, particularly if the Seahawks can establish their ground game and create more favorable passing situations.
Penalties and third-down efficiency could also shape the contest. Seattle will want to avoid extending the 49ers' drives with costly mistakes, while San Francisco will aim to maintain the execution that has carried it to a 4-0 start.
Recent History in the NFC West Rivalry
The Seahawks and 49ers have a long history as NFC West rivals. Seattle won both meetings played in January 2026 during the previous season's closing stretch and went on to capture the Super Bowl. San Francisco will look to respond in the new campaign, while Seattle hopes to continue its recent success against a familiar opponent.
How to Watch Seahawks vs 49ers in the USA
The game is scheduled for Sunday, October 11, at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington. FOX will carry the matchup in the United States. Kickoff is set for 4:25 p.m. ET, with local coverage beginning at 1:25 p.m. PT.
Matchup: San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks
Week: 5, 2026 NFL regular season
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
Kickoff: 1:25 p.m. PT / 3:25 p.m. CT / 4:25 p.m. ET
Stadium: Lumen Field
Location: Seattle, Washington
USA TV: FOX
Streaming: Check FOX's available streaming options and your local provider for access in your market.
A Pivotal NFC West Showdown
San Francisco will try to preserve its undefeated record, while Seattle aims to use its home-field advantage to challenge for the division lead. Offensive execution, discipline and the ability to adjust to key injuries could determine the outcome of this important Week 5 rivalry game.