Seahawks Advance to Super Bowl LX After Controversial NFC Championship Victory Over Rams

The Seattle Seahawks secured a spot in Super Bowl LX by defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31-27 in a tightly contested NFC Championship game held at Lumen Field on January 25, 2026. The match was marked by a pivotal moment when a controversial call allowed the Seahawks to maintain possession late in the game. With 3:20 remaining, a 7-yard catch by Cooper Kupp was ruled a first down despite replays indicating he was short. Rams head coach Sean McVay was unable to challenge the call due to having exhausted his timeouts.

Cobie Durant was tight-lipped on controversial call against Rams — that Sean McVay could not challengeSeahawks prevail over Rams in NFC Championship GameDewsbury Rams beat West Hull to progress in Challenge CupDewsbury Rams hold off West Hull challenge to progress – Total Rugby League

Quarterback Sam Darnold led the Seahawks with a strong performance, completing 25 of 36 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns, despite playing through an oblique injury. The Seahawks' defense, ranked first in the league, made crucial stops, including a fourth-and-goal stop from the Rams' 6-yard line. This defensive stand was complemented by a significant special teams play, where a muffed punt by Rams player Xavier Smith set up a touchdown for Seattle, extending their lead to 24-13.

Seahawks prevail over Rams in NFC Championship GameCobie Durant was tight-lipped on controversial call against Rams — that Sean McVay could not challengeDewsbury Rams beat West Hull to progress in Challenge CupDewsbury Rams hold off West Hull challenge to progress – Total Rugby League

The Rams had opportunities to regain control, notably when they briefly closed the gap to 31-27 after a touchdown pass from Matthew Stafford to Puka Nacua. However, they could not capitalize on their chances in the final moments of the game.

Seahawks prevail over Rams in NFC Championship Game

Following the game, Cobie Durant of the Rams refrained from criticizing the officials, stating, “Good game,” while emphasizing the need to respect the referees' decisions. McVay did not comment on the controversial play, but lip readers suggested he expressed frustration when informed he could not challenge the call.

Cobie Durant was tight-lipped on controversial call against Rams — that Sean McVay could not challenge

Critics of the officiating have pointed to the pivotal call as a significant factor in the game's outcome. Safety Quentin Lake acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, stating, “The refs make a call and you have to honor it and keep playing.” This sentiment reflects a broader frustration among Rams players regarding the impact of officiating on critical game moments.

Cobie Durant was tight-lipped on controversial call against Rams — that Sean McVay could not challenge

The Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026. This matchup marks a rematch of Super Bowl XLIX, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming game. Darnold's performance and the Seahawks' defensive prowess will be key factors as they aim for their first Super Bowl victory since 2014.

Seahawks prevail over Rams in NFC Championship Game

• “Good game,” — Cobie Durant, Rams Cornerback

Cobie Durant was tight-lipped on controversial call against Rams — that Sean McVay could not challenge

• “I poured in a lot to that program, and to go out the way I did, I didn’t like it, but it is what it is,” — Ernest Jones IV, Seahawks Linebacker

Cobie Durant was tight-lipped on controversial call against Rams — that Sean McVay could not challenge

The Seahawks' victory not only propels them to the Super Bowl but also raises questions about the Rams' future, particularly regarding quarterback Matthew Stafford, who must decide on his playing status for the upcoming season after a standout year.

Seahawks prevail over Rams in NFC Championship Game