Super Bowl Rematch: Patriots vs. Seahawks Season Opener

3 weeks ago 0

The New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks meet again to kick off the 2026 NFL regular season, replaying their Super Bowl LX encounter. Before the game commences, Seattle will celebrate by raising its second championship banner.

The Patriots look forward to showcasing new wide receiver A.J. Brown, but they will be missing running back TreVeyon Henderson due to an ankle injury.

Broadcast and Streaming:

TV: NBC, Peacock
Streaming: Fubo

The game begins with Seattle receiving the first possession. Richard Sherman was celebrated for raising the No. 12 flag at Lumen Field before the national anthem, which Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready performed.

As the Seahawks, led by Kam Chancellor, take the field, energy fills Lumen Field with Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” playing. The excitement quickly shifts as the Patriots step onto the field.

Seattle historically leads the regular-season matchups against New England 11-8. This is New England’s first visit to Seattle with fans since 2012. Quarterback Drake Maye, entering his third season, faces a challenging game against Seattle’s defense.

Before kickoff, the Seahawks unveil their second Super Bowl banner. This ceremony is bittersweet for the Patriots, recalling their loss earlier this year.

Joel McHale, known for his “Community” role, will serve as the NFL’s celebrity photographer for the game, being a dedicated Seahawks supporter.

With the Seahawks missing star nickel corner Nick Emmanwori, the Patriots may find new opportunities for their receivers, such as Romeo Doubs or DeMario Douglas, despite A.J. Brown facing tough coverage.

Seahawks Inactives:

S Nick Emmanwori
S Ty Okada
WR Tory Horton
G Beau Stephens
QB Jalen Milroe
TE Nick Kallerup
DE Mike Morris

Patriots Inactives:

RB TreVeyon Henderson
C Ben Brown
CB Karon Prunty
OLB Erick Hunter
T Walter Rouse
WR Efton Chism
QB Behren Morton (emergency third QB)

Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s breakout season last year included a franchise-record 1,793 receiving yards. Mike Vrabel praised Smith-Njigba for his abilities, highlighting his route execution and strength.

NBC continues its tradition of broadcasting the NFL season opener. The commentary team includes Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth, with field reporting by Melissa Stark and Kaylee Hartung. A pregame show hosted by Maria Taylor features familiar NFL faces, including Devin McCourty and Mike Tomlin.

Sam Darnold, reflecting on his Super Bowl performance, mentioned his self-critique, focusing on improvement and current challenges.

The odds for tonight’s game favor the Seahawks as 3.5-point favorites with a -175 moneyline. The Patriots hold a +145 moneyline. The over/under stands at 44.5 points.

Division race odds suggest challenges ahead for both teams despite their past season’s success, with neither favored to win their division this year. Seattle holds fourth-place odds to win the Super Bowl, while the Patriots are tied for the eighth. The Rams emerge as the current favored Super Bowl contenders.