Lock’s late surge gives Seattle a narrow opening-night win
The Seattle Seahawks opened the defense of their Super Bowl title with a gritty 13-10 victory over the much-healthier New England Patriots at Lumen Field on Wednesday.
Drew Lock, thrust into the starting role after Sam Darnold’s right hip injury emerged as a concern, finished the second half 10-of-14 for 136 yards and a touchdown. That late push provided the decisive offense in a game the Seahawks trailed 10-0 early before rallying.
Yakima Herald-republic noted that “for the moment, the Seahawks are Drew Lock’s football team,” and cautioned that how long Lock remains in charge will hinge on Darnold’s recovery. The outlet projected the stretch could last “from now until January,” depending on the severity of the right hip injury.
Defense does the heavy lifting
The Seahawks defense produced the plays that swung the game. Seattle’s secondary intercepted New England’s quarterback three times, including a deflection by Thomas that led to Nehemiah Pritchett’s takeaway and a toe-tap interception in the end zone by Josh Jobe.
Another interception by Love came on a forced, risky throw and matched his interception total from all of last season—an immediate impact in one game. The collective performance left the Patriots limited to 277 total yards and an average of 4.1 yards per play.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba provided the offensive highlight with a 45-yard touchdown that helped erase the early deficit and kept the Seahawks in front of New England’s steady, if contained, attack.
What the outcome means for Seattle
With the victory secured by timely defense and Lock’s second-half touch, the Seahawks avoided a nightmarish start and gave themselves breathing room while Darnold’s situation is sorted. The team’s short-term plans hinge on the medical evaluation of Darnold’s right hip and how long he may be unable to play.
Coaches and personnel will now balance the momentum from a win with the reality that the starter’s availability is uncertain. If Lock can replicate the efficiency he showed in the second half — a 71.4 completion rate on that stretch with a touchdown — Seattle has a chance to sustain results while adjustments are made behind the scenes.
The 13-10 scoreline ultimately reflected a game decided by defense and a timely offensive burst, with the quarterbacking spotlight shifting to Lock until Darnold’s right hip clears up enough for a return to consideration. Yakima Herald-republic’s projection that Lock’s tenure at the controls could range from a few weeks to through January underscores how pivotal the next medical updates will be for Seattle’s plans.
