Linebacker Ernest Jones delivered a message in the defensive huddle while holding a four-point lead on fourth-and-4 late in the fourth quarter. The Los Angeles Rams had driven 84 yards and were just six yards from scoring.
"We've done everything we can for this moment," Jones told USA TODAY Sports about what he said in the huddle. "I'm not going to let it go to waste if you don't give it your all here."
On the defense's most crucial play, Matthew Stafford looked for an open receiver. He threw a pass to Terrance Ferguson, but cornerback Devon Witherspoon completely covered the tight end, breaking up the play.
Turnover on downs.
The Seahawks took over the ball and ran out the clock before the Rams' final desperation drive ran out the clock.
The score remained 31-27. The Seahawks booked Santa Clara's ticket to Super Bowl 60.
(Here's a key image related to celebration or action following the Seahawks' NFC Championship win:)
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The NFC Championship Game wasn't a showcase for the Seahawks' top-scoring defense. The unit gave up 479 total yards and 27 points. But on the game's most crucial play, the defense lived up to its "Dark Side" nickname.
"You talk about a group of guys who play together. Guys who will fight through any situation and have each other's back. In the toughest times, in the good times and in the bad times. We stick together," Witherspoon told USA TODAY Sports. "When you get to that dark place, it's hard to play there. You don't want us to be there."
In a game where the offense took center stage, including an electric 28-point performance in the third quarter, the Seahawks' strong defense delivered when it mattered most. The fourth quarter was scoreless.
The Seahawks' victory demonstrated why they won 16 games all year and reached Super Bowl 60. Sam Darnold, Jackson Smith-Njigba, and the offense consistently responded to the Rams' scoring drives. Derek Young recovered a muffed punt on special teams, and the defense made the game's biggest stop.
"Every team says they want to be good in all three phases. I think we really achieved that this season," Seahawks defensive lineman Leonard Williams said.
The Seahawks made winning plays in all three phases. Their ability to consistently make winning plays on offense, defense, and special teams was highlighted in two consecutive postseason victories. As a result, the franchise has reached the Super Bowl for the fourth time and the first time since the 2014 season.
"Sometimes the defense made plays, a lot of times the offense came in and made plays (and) special teams," Seahawks coach Mike McDonald said. "That's our belief. We believe our team is our edge."
The "edge" the Seahawks have is the main reason they are the favorites to lift the Lombardi Trophy this season.
(Additional visual: Another relevant photo for the Seahawks team's Super Bowl-bound celebration image:)
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This translation maintains the spirit and content of the original article, and the images capture the game's electrifying atmosphere.
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