Sep 10, 2026 · 29 min
Seattle defense survives Patriots’ late collapse
Recap: Seahawks beat Patriots in season opener
Seattle’s narrow win tests whether its defense can carry the team through quarterback uncertainty while exposing unresolved problems in New England’s offense.
- 1Seattle’s secondary and pass rush forced Drake Maye into three fourth-quarter interceptions after New England struggled to run the ball.
- 2Drew Lock adjusted Seattle’s offense with boot action and play-action after Sam Darnold’s early injury, keeping the Seahawks competitive.
- 3Rookie Jadarian Price provided explosive production and strengthened the case for a larger role in Seattle’s backfield.
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Drake Maye’s three fourth-quarter interceptions erase New England’s chance to steal the opener and showcase Seattle’s late defensive resilience.
The brief
Seattle opened its title defense with a 13-10 win that turned on two disruptions: Sam Darnold’s early injury and Drake Maye’s late collapse.
New England could not establish its running game, and Seattle’s replacement defensive backs, pass rush and coverage structure steadily narrowed Maye’s options.
Maye played adequately for much of the afternoon before throwing three fourth-quarter interceptions, allowing Seattle to capitalize on missed opportunities and escape.
With Drew Lock taking over, Seattle used boot action, play-action and creative concepts to keep its offense functional while its defense carried the pressure.
Rookie Jadarian Price added immediate burst from the backfield, giving Seattle another offensive answer as the team awaits clarity on Darnold’s availability.