Super Bowl 2026: Sam Darnold Guides Seahawks Past Rams to Face Patriots

Jan 26, 2026

The NFL playoff picture is set, and Sam Darnold has led the Seattle Seahawks to Super Bowl 60 with a thrilling 31‑27 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Championship Game. Seattle will now square off against the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Darnold Shines in Key NFC Victory
Quarterback Sam Darnold, enjoying a breakout season with the Seahawks, turned in a standout performance. He threw three touchdown passes and amassed 346 passing yards without committing a turnover, helping Seattle balance a strong offense with clutch play.

The Seahawks’ defense, known as the “Dark Side,” also delivered when it mattered most, with a critical fourth‑down stop late in the game preserving the win. Darnold’s leadership and poise under pressure have been key to Seattle’s playoff success.

Seattle’s Path to Super Bowl 60
Seattle’s NFC Championship win capped off a remarkable postseason run. After defeating the San Francisco 49ers in the Divisional Round, the Seahawks hosted the Rams in front of an electric home crowd. Despite a late comeback attempt by Los Angeles, Seattle held on for the 31‑27 triumph, clinching the NFC title.

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 374 yards and three touchdowns, but turnovers and costly penalties ultimately gave Seattle the edge.

Super Bowl 60 Preview: Seahawks vs. Patriots
This Super Bowl matchup is a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX, where the Patriots famously beat the Seahawks. Over a decade later, these two teams will face off once again on the NFL’s grandest stage.

Seattle’s offense, led by Darnold and standout receiver Jaxon Smith‑Njigba, will test a Patriots team that fought hard to claim the AFC Championship. Analysts are predicting an exciting game as Seattle looks to claim its second Super Bowl title.

What the Win Means for Seattle

⦁ Fourth Super Bowl appearance in franchise history and the first since 2015.
 
⦁ Darnold has answered critics with clutch performances in his first season with Seattle.
 
⦁ Seattle’s defense has risen to the occasion throughout the playoffs.💬 Final Thoughts
The Seattle Seahawks’ journey to Super Bowl 60 has been marked by resilience, skill, and standout performances, especially from Sam Darnold. Their victory over the Rams highlights a team that thrives under pressure and balances offensive firepower with defensive grit.

As they prepare to face the New England Patriots, fans can expect a thrilling matchup filled with high stakes, strategic plays, and unforgettable moments. Whether Seattle can secure its second Super Bowl title or the Patriots continue their legacy, this game promises to be one for the history books.