Bob Condotta Delivers In-Depth Analysis and Grades for Seahawks’ Dramatic NFC Championship Victory Over Rams

By Sports Desk | January 26, 2026

SEATTLE – In a thrilling NFC Championship showdown that captivated football fans nationwide, the Seattle Seahawks emerged victorious over the Los Angeles Rams, securing their spot in Super Bowl LX. Veteran Seattle Times reporter Bob Condotta has broken down the game with his signature detailed grading system, highlighting key performances that propelled the Seahawks to triumph[1][2].

A Gritty Offensive Effort Seals the Deal

Condotta’s analysis praises the Seahawks’ backfield duo as pivotal to the win. Running backs who “were both a big part of it,” splitting carries effectively, provided a balanced attack that kept the Rams’ defense off-balance. Their contributions extended beyond rushing, shining “in the passing game” and bolstering pass protection – a critical factor in protecting the quarterback throughout the high-stakes matchup[1].

The offensive line’s resilience stood out, with Condotta noting, “that is what he does in the passing game right the pass protection.” This unit’s performance prevented breakdowns, allowing the Seahawks to sustain drives and exploit opportunities. Even as the game tightened in the fourth quarter, the Seahawks forced “three-and-outs” from the Rams, regaining momentum at crucial junctures[1].

Defensive Stand Shuts Down Rams’ Stars

Defensively, the Seahawks delivered when it mattered most. Despite allowing the Rams to “drive right down the field and score a touchdown” early in their comeback attempt, Seattle’s unit regrouped effectively. Condotta emphasizes their ability to assert dominance, declaring that the earlier lapses “wasn’t the real us in that game.” The defense committed to holding down key threats, vowing “we can hold you guys down and we can not let Puka Nacua get loose” – a strategy that neutralized the Rams’ top receiver and stifled their aerial assault[1].

Condotta highlights the synergy between rush and coverage: “whole rush and cover thing. It helps it all a lot more.” This integrated approach led to sacks generated not just from pressure but from “guys being well covered,” forcing the Rams’ quarterback to hold the ball longer than ideal. The result? A secondary that excelled against one of the NFL’s premier receiving corps, living up to the hype of the “matchup of NFL’s top receivers” between the Seahawks and Rams[1][2].

Key Player Grades and Standout Moments

Breaking down individual grades, Condotta gives high marks to running back Ken Walker, whose impact was undeniable: “maybe the rest of us have just seen Ken Walker and Ken… yards.” Walker’s explosive runs amassed significant yardage, embodying the ground game’s potency[1].

The Seahawks’ defense earned an A-grade for its late-game heroics, particularly the three-and-outs that “helped get them back into the game.” Offensively, the run game’s balance and pass protection combo nets a strong B+, with room for refinement in sustaining rhythm against late pressure[1].

Unit/Player	Grade	Key Highlight
Running Backs (Walker Duo)	A-	Split carries, passing game contributions
Offensive Line	B+	Superior pass protection
Defense	A	Shut down Nacua, forced three-and-outs
Secondary	A-	Well-covered receivers led to sacks

Path to the Super Bowl

This victory marks a redemption arc for the Seahawks, who entered the NFC title game as underdogs against a formidable Rams squad boasting elite talent. Condotta, a longtime Seahawks beat writer, contextualizes the win within the broader narrative: prior optimism like “Here is why the Seahawks WILL WIN” proved prescient, countering doubters who saw Rams dominance with titles like “LOSING IS NOT AN OPTION: Why Rams WILL Beat Seahawks”[1].

Now, Seattle looks ahead to Super Bowl LX, where their balanced offense and opportunistic defense will face new challenges. Condotta’s breakdown underscores the team’s versatility – a rushing attack that controls the clock, protection that enables big plays, and a defense that rises to shut down stars like Puka Nacua.

“They did have the three-and-outs in the fourth quarter that helped get them back into the game, but they also let the Rams drive… yet that wasn’t the real us.” – Bob Condotta on Seahawks’ resilience[1].

Fan Reaction and Expert Takes

Seahawks fans erupted in jubilation across the Pacific Northwest, with social media buzzing about Walker’s yards and the defense’s Nacua clampdown. Condotta’s grades have sparked debate, with many agreeing the “rush and cover” synergy was the game’s turning point[1].

As a journalist covering the Seahawks for The Seattle Times, Condotta’s insights carry weight, drawing from years of observing the team’s evolution. His analysis of the top-receiver matchup lived up to expectations, proving Seattle’s secondary could hang with the league’s best[2].

With the Super Bowl on the horizon, Condotta’s grading serves as both celebration and blueprint. The Seahawks’ win wasn’t flawless – a late Rams touchdown exposed vulnerabilities – but their ability to adapt and execute under pressure signals championship pedigree[1].

Stay tuned for more coverage as Seattle prepares for the biggest stage. This NFC Championship triumph, dissected masterfully by Condotta, reaffirms the Seahawks as contenders.