Ugly wins were a theme for the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots in Week 1. After a rocky start, the Seahawks fought back in the second half to win at home against rookie quarterback Bo Nix and the Broncos, who are currently rebuilding their team. New England surprised the league with a remarkable road win against Cincinnati. With both teams entering the game 1-0, Seattle is the favorite to win by a few points on the road against the Patriots.
Running back health is critical for Seattle. Kenneth Walker III’s second-half performance led to the Seahawks’ comeback win over Denver. After rushing for 84 of his 103 yards in the second half and scoring a game-winning touchdown, Walker left the field in the fourth quarter and did not return due to a muscle problem in his abdomen.
With Walker’s health and availability in question, Seattle’s offense faces changes. Backup Zach Charbonnet could replace Walker. Limiting turnovers and mistakes is key for quarterback Geno Smith. Seattle looked sluggish in Week 1, in part because Smith threw an interception and the offense had two safeties. There can be no mistakes against a New England team that preaches ball control, time of possession and fighting for turnovers.
The Patriots eked out a win in head coach Jerod Mayo’s debut. New England did its damage by running while quarterback Jacoby Brissett was an effective game manager. Rhamondre Stevenson led the Patriots runners with 120 yards and a touchdown while the offensive line outplayed Cincinnati’s front line.
Cornerback Christian Gonzalez covered Bengals star wideout Ja’Marr Chase and helped the Patriots defense smother the Bengals. Gonzalez covering DK Metcalf puts additional pressure on Seattle to spread the ball around on offense — especially if Walker isn’t healthy.
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Odds for Seattle Seahawks vs New England Patriots
How to watch Seahawks vs. Patriots
- Venue: Gillette Stadium – Foxborough, Massachusetts.
- Time: 1:00 p.m. ET, Sunday
- TV: FOX
- Streaming: Try Fubo for free
Expert tips for Seahawks vs. Patriots
Read more about NFL Week 2
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Tips against the spread, Week 2: Give Daniel Jones some leeway, the Giants will fight back
Quarterback Tiers: Tua, Trevor Lawrence and the Biggest Contracts of All Time for Tier 3 Quarterbacks
(Photo by Jacoby Brissett: Scott Taetsch / Getty Images)
