NFL Insider Shocks with Super Bowl Prediction: A Big Surprise?
The Seattle Seahawks kicked off the new season with a win, but have cause for concern following an early injury to quarterback Sam Darnold.

Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks opened the new NFL season with a win, but may have lost their star quarterback in the process.

In a rematch of February’s Super Bowl, the champions defeated the New England Patriots 13–10 at home, rallying from a deficit in the final quarter. Playmaker Sam Darnold had to leave the field early due to injury.

After a scoreless first quarter, six-time champion New England made its first statement at Lumen Field. Quarterback Drake Maye found tight end Eli Raridon in the end zone with a short pass for the first touchdown of the season.

However, it remained one of the few highlights for Maye: With 178 passing yards, he threw three interceptions in the final quarter. Maye also lost a key weapon in newcomer A.J. Brown; the wide receiver left the field in the third quarter with an ankle injury.

Concerns about Darnold

Darnold, however, had an even worse night. The quarterback was injured on the Seahawks’ first possession after taking a sack and did not return. Still, after the game, Head Coach Mike Macdonald stated that the doctors have at least ruled out a fracture.

“Let’s just say that’s good news for now. I know our thoughts and prayers are with Sam—we love him. The guys really gave it their all for him,“ said the head coach.

He continued: ”There are still more tests to come. I know we still have to figure all this out, but for now, a fracture has been ruled out, which is great news.”

First touchdown for Smith-Njigba

Backup Drew Lock took over after that and struggled for a long time to put up any points.

In the fourth quarter, he finally found star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for the touchdown that tied the game. After Mayes’ second interception, kicker Jason Myers hit a field goal to secure the win.

With this comeback, the Seahawks celebrated their eleventh straight win. In the last Super Bowl, Seattle prevailed 29–13 thanks to an outstanding defensive performance.

In Week 2, they’ll face the newly formed Arizona Cardinals. The Patriots will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers.