Winners and losers from the Seahawks win over Patriots in ragged game

SEATTLE – The rematch of a largely non-competitive Super Bowl 60 between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots turned out to be arguably worse – if at least much closer – as a season-opening kickoff game as the NFL began its 2026 season on Wednesday, Sept. 9.

The Seattle Seahawks prevailed 13-10 in a largely ragged game at Lumen Field that also saw both teams lose star players to injuries. But at least the Seahawks emerged unscathed in the loss column as they attempt to navigate what projects as a very competitive NFC.

Your winners and losers, beyond the scoreboard, from the first of the league’s 285 games this season:

The 2025 NFL Offensive Player of the Year catalyzed a stagnant Seattle offense with his game-tying 45-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter, JSN doing most of the work while weaving through New England’s defense after catching a short pass just beyond the line of scrimmage from QB2 Drew Lock. With eight catches for 122 yards, Smith-Njigba was really the only offensive player who made a major impact on the night.

After getting beaten by A.J. Brown in the first half and committing pass interference to save a touchdown…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/