49ers-Seahawks preview: Rivalry renewed in NFC Divisional Playoffs

49ers-Seahawks preview: Rivalry renewed in NFC Divisional Playoffs

Author: Matt Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area January 15, 2026 Duration: 46:27
Two bitter rivals will play each other for a third time this season when the 49ers and Seahawks clash on Saturday at Lumen Field in the NFC divisional round. With the season series split at one win apiece, its anyone's game to impose their will. On this episode of "49ers Talk," co-hosts Matt Maiocco and Jennifer Lee Chan discuss the storylines surrounding this storied rivalry and what San Francisco must do to compete with such a formidable opponent in Seattle. The duo details what linebacker Fred Warner's return to practice means to the team, and provides injury updates with a close eye on receiver Ricky Pearsall, who also returned in limited fashion. Matt then sits down with Jauan Jennings' high school coach, Philip Shadowens, to learn what makes the wideout such a unique and enigmatic talent that has endeared himself to the 49ers Faithful.

For fans who live and breathe the red and gold, 49ers Talk: A San Francisco 49ers Podcast is your essential weekly audio destination. Hosted by NBC Sports Bay Area's trusted insider Matt Maiocco alongside reporter Jennifer Lee Chan, this podcast delivers the kind of access and analysis that goes far beyond the final score. The conversation here is built on decades of institutional knowledge and current, inside-the-building relationships. You'll hear directly from the people shaping the franchise's destiny, from candid interviews with players and coaches to revealing conversations with front-office executives and respected alumni. The coverage is comprehensive, breaking down draft strategy, free agency moves, injury reports, and the subtle X's and O's that define each game. It’s a year-round commitment to the story, meaning you get crucial offseason insight just as readily as mid-week playoff preparation. This isn't just a recap show; it's a deep, nuanced dialogue that also features perspectives from fellow media members who cover the team day in and day out. Tune in for the authentic, informed voice that has made this podcast a cornerstone for the Faithful seeking a true insider's perspective on their NFL team.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

49ers Talk: A San Francisco 49ers Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Mike Macdonald details challenges facing Brock Purdy, 49ers' offense [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:19
On "49ers Talk," NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco sits down with Seattle Seahawks coach and Super Bowl LX champion Mike Macdonald at the American Century Classic golf tournament in South Lake Tahoe. Macdonald evaluates…
Kyle Juszczyk reveals why Kaelon Black could help Christian McCaffrey [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:10
Kyle Juszczyk joins "49ers Talk" from the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe to share his impressions of the rookie class, provide an update on George Kittle’s recovery and look ahead t…
NFL analyst Andrew Whitworth previews tough NFC West division [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:55
On this episode of "49ers Talk," co-hosts Matt Maiocco and Jennifer Lee Chan discuss the latest developments in the Brandon Aiyuk saga and the excitement of seeing the NFC West shaping up into the best division in the NF…
Brock Purdy, Mac Jones team up at TEU as 49ers' Aiyuk drama rolls on [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:39
Quarterbacks Brock Purdy, Mac Jones and a host of former 49ers signal-callers were on hand for the sixth annual Tight End University to provide reps. Also, Brandon Aiyuk's stalemate with the organization continues, with…
Kittle, Juszczyk unite at TEU as 49ers star targets Week 1 return [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:53
George Kittle co-hosts Tight End University for the sixth consecutive summer at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, giving NFL tight ends an opportunity to train, study film and network. On "49ers Talk," Matt…
Remembering Aldon Smith: Former 49ers star dies at age 36 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:41
On this episode of "49ers Talk," co-hosts Matt Maiocco and Jennifer Lee Chan remember former 49ers pass rusher Aldon Smith, who passed away Saturday at the age of 36. The No. 7 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Smith b…