Seahawks’ ‘Dark Side’ Defense Crushes Patriots 29-13 to Claim Super Bowl LX Glory
February 8, 2026
In a masterful display of defensive dominance, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 to win Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium, securing their second Lombardi Trophy in franchise history.
The Seahawks’ nickname “Dark Side” defense, led by coordinator Mike Macdonald, lived up to its fearsome reputation, sacking Patriots quarterback Drake Maye six to seven times—sources vary slightly on the count—and forcing three turnovers, including two interceptions and a fumble returned for a touchdown.
Seahawks Defense Sets the Tone Early
From the opening whistle, Seattle’s defense disrupted New England’s rhythm. Linebacker Derick Hall notched a strip sack in the third quarter, his first since 2024, while Uchenna Nwosu and safety Julian Love each intercepted Maye in the fourth. Nwosu’s pick-six proved decisive, sealing the victory as Seattle pulled away.
The Patriots, who entered as the AFC’s No. 2 seed with a 14-3 regular-season record under new coach Mike Vrabel, managed just one first down in the second half and punted repeatedly in the first half. Maye, the regular-season MVP runner-up, finished 27-of-43 for 295 yards with two late touchdowns but was under constant pressure, completing only 48 passing yards before halftime.
Offensive Highlights Power Seattle to Victory
While the defense stole the show, Seattle’s offense provided steady production. Running back Kenneth Walker III, named Super Bowl MVP, rushed for 125-135 yards on 5.0 yards per carry, including key runs that set up scoring drives. Quarterback Sam Darnold, the journeyman signal-caller, delivered a mistake-free performance, going 19-of-38 for 202 yards and a touchdown pass to tight end AJ Barner.
Kicker Jason Myers was flawless, setting a Super Bowl record with multiple field goals, including a 39-yarder in the first quarter, another before halftime for a 9-0 lead, and a 41-yarder in the third to make it 12-0. Seattle’s first touchdown came in the fourth quarter on Darnold’s strike to Barner, extending the lead to 19-0.
Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown
| Quarter | Key Events | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Myers FG (39 yd); defenses dominate with three-and-outs. | SEA 3-0 NE |
| 2nd | Myers adds two FGs; Pats pinned deep multiple times. | SEA 9-0 NE |
| 3rd | Hall strip sack; Myers 41-yd FG; Pats one first down. | SEA 12-0 NE |
| 4th | Darnold TD to Barner (19-0); Maye TD Hollins (19-7); INTs, Myers FG, Nwosu pick-six, Walker runs, Maye TD Stevenson (29-13). | SEA 29-13 NE (Final) |
Patriots’ Late Rally Falls Short
New England finally cracked the scoreboard in the fourth with a 35-yard touchdown from Maye to Mack Hollins, cutting it to 19-7. Rhamondre Stevenson added a late touchdown run, but back-to-back interceptions halted any comeback hopes. The Patriots totaled 331 yards but only 42 rushing and sputtered when it mattered most.
“The ‘Dark Side’ wreaked havoc… sacking [Maye] six times and forcing him to turn the ball over three times.”
ESPN[1]
Postgame Accolades and Legacy
Walker III’s MVP honors cap a stellar postseason, while Darnold’s poise vindicates his career arc. Macdonald’s unit, the NFL’s No. 1 defense, confirmed its elite status with pressures from Devon Witherspoon, Byron Murphy II, and rookie Rylie Mills contributing to the sack frenzy.
For the Patriots, Maye’s second-year growth pains were evident despite a dream 14-3 season and playoff wins over the Chargers, Texans, and Broncos. New England’s first Super Bowl appearance since their dynasty era ends in heartbreak.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Seattle looks to build a dynasty with its young core intact. Darnold, Walker, and the “Dark Side” return hungry for more. New England faces questions at QB and must regroup after this defensive clinic exposed offensive vulnerabilities.
The Super Bowl LX victory parade awaits in Seattle, where fans will celebrate the return of championship football to the Pacific Northwest.