Seahawks Win Super Bowl 2026: Walker Claims MVP Honor
In a display of offensive firepower and defensive dominance, the Seattle Seahawks clinched their second Super Bowl title in franchise history by defeating the New England Patriots 29-13 in Super Bowl 60 at Levi's Stadium. The victory marks a triumphant return to glory for Seattle, who last hoisted the Lombardi Trophy in 2014. At the center of the celebration was running back Kenneth Walker, who not only powered the Seahawks' ground game but also etched his name into NFL lore as the Super Bowl MVP—the first running back to earn the honor since Terrell Davis in 1998.
Game Recap: Seahawks Overpower Patriots
The game unfolded as a one-sided affair from the outset, with Seattle's balanced attack suffocating New England's defense. Quarterback Sam Darnold, making his first Super Bowl start, orchestrated a near-flawless performance, completing 22 of 30 passes for 248 yards and two touchdowns. His poise under pressure was evident, especially in the second quarter when he connected with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed for a 35-yard score that put the Seahawks up 14-3 at halftime.
Defensively, Seattle was relentless. Cornerback Devon Witherspoon and edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu combined for game-sealing plays in the fourth quarter. Nwosu's strip-sack of rookie Patriots quarterback Drake Maye led to a scoop-and-score touchdown, extending the lead to 29-7 with just minutes remaining. Earlier, safety Julian Love's interception of a deep Maye pass swung momentum decisively, setting up a field goal that made it 22-7.
For the Patriots, it was a harsh introduction to the big stage for Maye, the third overall pick in the 2024 draft. The young signal-caller completed 18 of 35 attempts for 192 yards, one touchdown, and two turnovers. As ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky noted post-game, "This has been a play-by-play suffocation." New England's lone bright spot came late with running back Rhamondre Stevenson's consolation touchdown, but a failed two-point conversion underscored their offensive woes.
Key Stats and Turning Points
Kenneth Walker's stat line was the stuff of MVP dreams: 27 carries for 135 yards, including a pair of receptions for 26 more. Though a potential touchdown was nullified by a holding penalty in the third quarter, Walker's grinding runs wore down the Patriots' front seven, opening lanes for the passing game. He joined an elite list of running backs who've claimed Super Bowl MVP honors, a feat not seen in nearly three decades.
Seattle's kicking game was equally clutch, with Jason Myers nailing four field goals, including a 48-yarder that pushed the lead to 15 points late. The Seahawks' 12th Man— their passionate fans—created an electric atmosphere, drowning out New England's offense and forcing three three-and-outs in the first half.
Kenneth Walker: Breaking a 28-Year Drought
Walker's MVP selection was no surprise, announced amid roaring celebrations at Levi's Stadium. The 24-year-old, acquired by Seattle in a 2023 trade, has been the heartbeat of their resurgence under head coach Mike McDonald. In his post-game speech, Walker credited the offensive line: "These guys paved the way. This one's for the 12s and everyone back home."
His award snaps a long-standing trend where quarterbacks have dominated MVP voting in recent Super Bowls. Since Davis's 1998 heroics with the Denver Broncos, no RB has taken home the hardware, making Walker's achievement a nod to the timeless value of a dominant ground game in the modern NFL.
Drake Maye's Learning Curve
On the losing side, Maye's debut was a baptism by fire. Facing Seattle's aggressive secondary, he was sacked four times and hurried on 12 dropbacks. Veteran Patriots coach Bill Belichick, in his final season, offered measured praise: "Drake showed flashes, but experience matters in these moments." Maye, undeterred, vowed to return stronger, drawing parallels to his college days at North Carolina.
Bad Bunny's Halftime Spectacle
Amid the on-field drama, the halftime show provided a vibrant interlude. Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny delivered a high-energy performance blending reggaeton hits with NFL-themed flair. His set, featuring collaborations with surprise guests like J Balvin, had fans on their feet, contrasting the game's intensity. Social media buzzed with praise, with #BadBunnySuperBowl trending worldwide.
Looking Ahead: Seahawks' Dynasty Potential
This win validates McDonald's rebuild, blending young talent like Walker and Witherspoon with veterans such as Darnold. For New England, questions swirl around Maye's development and the post-Belichick era. As the confetti fell, Seattle's players lifted the trophy, signaling the start of what could be a new era in the Pacific Northwest.
The Super Bowl 2026 wasn't just a game; it was a statement. Walker's MVP run cements his stardom, while the Seahawks remind the league that underdog stories still thrive in the NFL.
