Why Did the Seahawks Stifle the Undefeated Chiefs in a 20-3 Upset?

The Seattle Seahawks handed the Kansas City Chiefs their first loss of the season with a dominant 20-3 victory at Lumen Field.

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Key points

  • The Seattle Seahawks handed the Kansas City Chiefs their first loss of the season with a dominant 20-3 victory.
  • Seattle's defense held Patrick Mahomes to just 165 passing yards and zero touchdowns.
  • Former Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III was restricted to 36 yards on 14 carries.
  • Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba starred with nine catches for 150 yards and a touchdown.
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Last updated: October 26, 2026

Why Did the Seahawks Stifle the Undefeated Chiefs in a 20-3 Upset?

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 20-3 at Lumen Field on Sunday, October 25, 2026, handing the visitors their first loss of the season. Powered by a suffocating defensive performance, Seattle shut down former running back Kenneth Walker III and limited quarterback Patrick Mahomes to just three points. The victory lifts the Seahawks to a 4-3 record and snaps Kansas City's undefeated run.

Kenneth Walker III is tackled by Seahawks defenders
Kenneth Walker III is tackled during Sunday night's game at Lumen Field — NBC News

What Happened

Sunday night's prime-time matchup brought high stakes as the reigning Super Bowl champion Seahawks hosted an undefeated Chiefs squad. Instead of a high-scoring offensive shootout, the game turned into a defensive clinic orchestrated by Seattle coach Mike Macdonald. The Seahawks neutralized Kansas City's offensive weapons from the opening whistle, preventing the visitors from ever reaching the red zone. The relentless pressure disrupted Mahomes and completely stymied the Chiefs' ground game.

The Facts Confirmed

Official game statistics confirmed the extent of Seattle's defensive dominance. Patrick Mahomes completed 19 of 33 passes for 165 yards with zero touchdowns and one interception, marking just the second time in his career he has been held to three points or fewer in a start. Kenneth Walker III, who entered the night leading the NFL in rushing yards, was restricted to just 36 yards on 14 carries against his former team. Meanwhile, Sam Darnold completed 20 of 28 passes for 257 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba posted nine receptions for 150 yards and a 28-yard score. Emanuel Wilson anchored the ground attack with 100 rushing yards and a fourth-quarter touchdown.

Sam Darnold of the Seattle Seahawks
Quarterback Sam Darnold orchestrated Seattle's offense in the victory — Fox News

Impact on the Team or Competition

The decisive victory alters the landscape of the AFC and NFC standings. With the loss, the Chiefs drop to 5-1 on the season, surrendering their unblemished record and tightening the race in the AFC West. For Seattle, moving to 4-3 provides a vital morale boost and puts them within striking distance of the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC West. Furthermore, the defensive masterclass serves as a warning to the rest of the league that Seattle's front seven remains among the most formidable units in professional football.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the field
Jaxon Smith-Njigba led all receivers with 150 yards and a touchdown — NBC Sports

How the Club or Athlete Responded

Following the game, players and coaches addressed the media with candid assessments of their performances. Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald praised his squad's resilience in overcoming adversity, stating,

To stand steadfast in some adversity, that’s what we do. We find solutions.

— Mike Macdonald, Coach
On the opposing side, Chiefs coach Andy Reid took accountability for the offensive struggles, telling reporters,

All three phases, we gotta do better. I take full responsibility for this.

— Andy Reid, Coach
Mahomes expressed his frustration bluntly, remarking to reporters,

You gotta feel it. This sucks.

— Patrick Mahomes, Quarterback

What Happens Next

Both teams face quick turnarounds as they prepare for pivotal Week 8 matchups. The Seahawks remain at home to host the Chicago Bears on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Lumen Field. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs will travel to Colorado to face the Denver Broncos at Empower Field next Sunday, putting first place in the AFC West on the line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the Sunday night NFL game on October 25, 2026?

The Seattle Seahawks defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 20-3 at Lumen Field.

How many yards did Patrick Mahomes throw for against Seattle?

Patrick Mahomes completed 19 of 33 passes for 165 yards, zero touchdowns, and one interception.

What was Kenneth Walker III's rushing total against his former team?

Kenneth Walker III was held to 36 rushing yards on 14 carries by the Seahawks' defense.

What is the current record of the Seattle Seahawks after this win?

The Seattle Seahawks improved their record to 4-3 following the victory.

Who is the next opponent for the Kansas City Chiefs?

The Kansas City Chiefs will travel to face the Denver Broncos in Week 8.