In a thrilling season opener, the Seattle Seahawks topped the New England Patriots 36-21, marking a strong start to the 2026 season. Both teams came into the game looking to establish momentum early, but it was the Seahawks who ultimately seized control and delivered a statement victory. Sam Darnold was the star of the show for Seattle, throwing for 353 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his ability to stretch the field. His favorite target, Rashid Shaheed, burned the Patriots' secondary with 133 receiving yards, while Jadarian Price added a potent ground game with 135 rushing yards. This offensive firepower allowed Seattle to build a significant lead that New England struggled to overcome. Defensively, the Seahawks were equally impressive, with Ernest Jones IV leading the charge with eight total tackles, and Leonard Williams adding 1.5 sacks to disrupt the Patriots' rhythm. Seattle's defense made key stops at critical moments, particularly during the second half, preventing New England from closing the gap. The turning point came midway through the third quarter when a crucial sack by Williams led to a turnover on downs, allowing Seattle to extend their lead and solidify their victory.