Winning ugly was a theme for both the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots during Week 1. Following a disjointed start, the Seahawks rallied in the second half to outlast rookie quarterback Bo Nix and the rebuilding Broncos at home. New England stunned the league with a notable road upset over Cincinnati. As both teams enter 1-0, Seattle is the favorite to win by a few points on the road against the Patriots.
Health at running back is a key for Seattle. Kenneth Walker III’s output in the second half led the Seahawk’s comeback victory over Denver. After rushing for 84 of his 103 yards in the second half and scoring a crucial touchdown, Walker exited in the fourth quarter and didn’t return with a muscle issue in his abdomen.
With Walker’s health and availability in question, Seattle’s offense faces changes. Backup Zach Charbonnet is capable of filling in for Walker. Limiting turnovers and mistakes is vital for quarterback Geno Smith. Seattle looked sluggish in Week 1, thanks in part to Smith throwing a pick and the offense taking two safeties. Miscues can’t happen against a New England team preaching ball control, time of possession and winning the turnover battle.
The Patriots ground out a win in head coach Jerod Mayo’s debut. New England did its damage running the ball while quarterback Jacoby Brissett was an effective game manager. Rhamondre Stevenson paced Patriots runners with 120 yards and a touchdown as the offensive line outplayed Cincinnati’s front.
Cornerback Christian Gonzalez draped Bengals star wideout Ja’Marr Chase and helped the Patriots defense stifle the Bengals. Gonzalez covering D.K. Metcalf puts added pressure on Seattle to spread the ball around on offense — particularly if Walker isn’t healthy.
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Seattle Seahawks at New England Patriots odds
How to watch Seahawks vs. Patriots
- Venue: Gillette Stadium — Foxborough, Mass.
- Time: 1 p.m. ET, Sunday
- TV: FOX
- Streaming: Try Fubo for free
Expert picks for Seahawks vs. Patriots
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(Photo of Jacoby Brissett: Scott Taetsch / Getty Images)
