Week one brings Seahawks and 49ers to a charged Lumen Field, with Seattle chasing a return to the postseason by leaning into a potent, improved run game and a defense built to win the line of scrimmage. The plan hinges on offensive line play and ball-control, aiming to lift the rushing ranking from last season and keep the clock moving against a tough SF front. If Seattle translates preseason success to the regular season and avoids turnovers, their ceiling climbs into the 11- to 13-win range in a tight division race.

SF arrives with elite talent at key spots but turnover on the perimeter and injuries cloud the offense. The front seven remains formidable with Bosa and Warner anchoring the defense, while play-action and bold play-calling challenge Seattle’s defense. The hosts also spotlight rookies Elijah Royo and Tory Horton as potential early contributors, adding intrigue to a rivalry that opens the season with high stakes for the NFC West.