### Seahawks Face Quarterback Dilemma Ahead of Playoff Showdown with 49ers The Seattle Seahawks are grappling with a significant injury concern as they prepare for their NFC Divisional Round playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. Starting quarterback Sam Darnold has been listed as questionable due to a left oblique injury sustained during practice. Despite this setback, Darnold has expressed confidence in his ability to play, stating that the likelihood of him sitting out is "very low" and "probably closer to zero" [https://apnews.com/article/seahawks-sam-darnold-injury-61de574566233bf397208192c446c7f5]. If Darnold is unable to play, backup quarterback Drew Lock is poised to step in [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/seahawks-turn-drew-lock-sam-010110727.html]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation 1. **Injury Status of Sam Darnold** - Darnold was added to the injury report after experiencing discomfort in his oblique during practice on Thursday [https://nypost.com/2026/01/15/sports/seahawks-sam-darnold-suddenly-questionable-with-new-injury]. - He is officially listed as questionable for the game against the 49ers, which raises concerns for the Seahawks as they head into a critical playoff matchup [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-15468569/seattle-seahawks-qb-sam-darnold-suffers-huge-injury-scare-ahead-playoff-showdown-against-49ers.html]. 2. **Drew Lock as Backup** - Should Darnold be unable to play, Drew Lock will take over as the starting quarterback [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/seahawks-turn-drew-lock-sam-010110727.html]. - Lock's performance will be crucial, as the Seahawks aim to maintain their momentum as the No. 1 seed in the NFC [https://www.oregonlive.com/nfl/2026/01/seahawks-sam-darnold-injures-oblique-but-says-he-expects-to-play-vs-49ers.html]. 3. **Darnold's Confidence and Treatment** - Darnold has indicated that he will receive treatment leading up to the game and remains optimistic about his chances of playing [https://www.ksl.com/article/51433929/seahawks-qb-sam-darnold-injures-oblique-in-practice-but-is-confident-hell-play-vs-49ers]. - His experience and leadership will be vital for the Seahawks as they face a formidable opponent in the 49ers [https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/24481215/sam-darnold-injury-seahawks-49ers-playoffs]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Injury Report Summary:** - **Sam Darnold:** Questionable due to left oblique injury. - **Drew Lock:** Backup ready to step in if needed. - **Darnold's Statements:** - "Very low percentage" chance of missing the game [https://www.apnews.com/article/seahawks-sam-darnold-injury-61de574566233bf397208192c446c7f5]. - Confident in his ability to play despite the injury [https://www.oregonlive.com/nfl/2026/01/seahawks-sam-darnold-injures-oblique-but-says-he-expects-to-play-vs-49ers.html]. ### Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty Ahead of the Game In summary, the Seattle Seahawks are facing a critical moment as they prepare for their playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. The uncertainty surrounding Sam Darnold's injury adds a layer of complexity to their strategy. 1. **Darnold's Injury:** His oblique injury raises questions about his availability, but he remains optimistic about playing. 2. **Backup Plan:** Drew Lock is ready to take over if necessary, which could impact the team's performance. 3. **Overall Impact:** The outcome of this game could hinge on Darnold's health and readiness to compete at a high level. The Seahawks will need to monitor Darnold's condition closely as they aim to secure a victory and advance in the playoffs [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/seattle-seahawks/news/sam-darnold-playing-vs-49ers-latest-news-divisional-game/6e5e53f792eebe64927eb14f].