The Seattle Seahawks, the reigning champions, kicked off the NFL season with a hard-fought 13-10 victory over the New England Patriots. This opening game was a rematch of the Super Bowl, where the Seahawks' 'Dark Side' defence had previously dominated.
Seattle faced an early challenge when quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury during the game's first drive. Despite this, the Seahawks' defence stepped up, securing three interceptions in the final quarter at Lumen Field.
The Patriots initially took a 10-0 lead, with rookie tight end Eli Raridon scoring the season's first touchdown in the second quarter. However, back-up quarterback Drew Lock ignited Seattle's offence late in the third quarter, leading to a field goal from Jason Myers.
Seahawks cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett made his first career interception in the fourth quarter. Lock then connected with Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a 45-yard touchdown. Julian Love's interception of Drake Maye allowed Myers to kick another field goal, putting the Seahawks ahead.
With 21 seconds left, New England opted for a win instead of overtime, but Maye's pass was intercepted by Josh Jobe in the end zone. Initial tests on Darnold's hip showed no fracture, according to Seattle head coach Mike Macdonald.