Rashid Shaheed returns opening kickoff for a touchdown

The Seattle Seahawks began their playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers with a significant play as Rashid Shaheed returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, giving the Seahawks an early 7-0 lead just 13 seconds into the game. During the play, 49ers kicker Eddy Pineiro attempted to trip Shaheed, resulting in a penalty that was enforced on the extra point. Shaheed, acquired from the New Orleans Saints in exchange for fourth- and fifth-round draft picks on November 4, had previously scored on both a punt and a kickoff return during the regular season for Seattle. This marks Shaheed's first playoff touchdown on his first return in postseason play. Meanwhile, 49ers quarterback Sam Darnold, dealing with an oblique injury, is set to start the game.