Introduction
The 2024 season opener between the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks set the tone for both teams. The Seahawks took the win 26 to 20, but the game featured strong individual showings and gave us good insights into how each side plays. In this article I’ll break down the match, look at key player statistics, explore team trends, and answer some frequently asked questions. The aim is to give you a clear and easy to understand view.
Match overview
The game took place on September 8 2024 at Seattle’s home field, Lumen Field. The Seahawks won 26 to 20.
Here are some of the top level team stats from that game:
- First downs: Broncos 13, Seahawks 19.
- Total yards: Broncos 231 yards, Seahawks 304 yards.
- Yards per play: Broncos roughly 3.3, Seahawks roughly 5.1.
- Third down conversions: Broncos 5 of 18, Seahawks 4 of 12.
These numbers show that the Seahawks had better efficiency in moving the ball and making plays.
Key offensive performances
Seattle Seahawks
- Quarterback Geno Smith completed 18 of 25 passes for 171 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
- Running back Kenneth Walker III had 20 carries for 103 rushing yards and 1 rushing touchdown.
- Wide receiver Tyler Lockett caught 6 passes for 77 yards.
- Wide receiver DK Metcalf caught 3 passes for 29 yards.
These stats show that Seattle’s running game was strong with over 100 yards from Walker and that their passing game was efficient enough to support the win.
Denver Broncos
- Rookie quarterback Bo Nix had a rushing touchdown, but his passing was limited with 26 of 42 passes for 138 yards, 0 passing touchdowns and 2 interceptions in his debut.
- The Broncos rushed 25 times for 99 yards, nice effort but not as strong as Seattle.
- Overall Denver’s offense struggled with yardage per play and conversions.
What does that tell us
For Seattle, the ability to run the ball well through Kenneth Walker III gave them balance, and Geno Smith’s passing kept the defense honest.
For Denver, they had moments, but the inefficiency in passing and modest rushing yardage limited their scoring chances.
Key defensive and special teams notes
- Denver’s pass rush made some impact with sacks and pressures but Seattle still managed to move the ball better.
- Seattle forced Denver into mistakes and limited explosive plays.
- Special teams: Kickers and field goals mattered. Denver’s kicker Wil Lutz made a 35 yard field goal early.
- Overall, Seattle controlled more of the game flow thanks to better sustained drives.
Turning points in the game
- In the 3rd quarter, Kenneth Walker III had a 23 yard rushing touchdown which gave Seattle a lead they maintained.
- Denver’s offense failed on key drives; their third down conversion rate of 5 of 18 hurt their ability to keep momentum.
- Seattle’s yards per play being 5.1 vs Denver’s 3.3 was a major factor, it is hard to win when you’re gaining so little per play.
- Turnovers and penalties also played a role.
What do these stats mean for both teams
For the Broncos
- They are a team with young offence led by Bo Nix and thus some growing pains.
- The rushing game is modest but with room to improve.
- If they can boost conversion on third downs and reduce mistakes, they’ll be more competitive.
- Their past history vs Seattle also suggests room for improvement.
For the Seahawks
- They show a solid foundation with strong rushing, efficient passing, and good defensive play.
- If they keep this up, they have the tools to win close matchups and build momentum.
- The rivalry with Denver gives them extra incentive.
Match implications and bigger picture
- This game started the season for both teams and gave fans and analysts a first look at where things stand.
- For Denver, it showed the gap that still exists between them and more efficient teams.
- For Seattle, it gave hope that the roster and strategy can deliver results when balanced well.
- The Broncos Seahawks rivalry has history. They’ve met many times with 58 total meetings and Denver leads the series 35 to 23.
Looking ahead
- The Broncos need to refine their offence with more passing yards, fewer interceptions, better conversion, and stronger rushing.
- Seattle has to maintain its performance, avoid injuries, and continue refining its defence to stay ahead.
- Future matchups between these two will be interesting given the rivalry and the potential for both teams to evolve.
Conclusion
The 2024 season opener between the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks was a well fought battle, with Seattle taking the 26 to 20 win thanks to stronger yard gains and better efficiency. For the Broncos, the game highlighted where they still need growth, especially on offence, while for the Seahawks, it reinforced that balance in rushing and passing can lead to success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- When did the Broncos and Seahawks last play
They played on September 8 2024 with Seattle winning 26 to 20. - Who were the standout players in that matchup
For Seattle, Kenneth Walker III with 103 rushing yards and 1 touchdown and Geno Smith with 171 passing yards and 1 touchdown stood out. For Denver, Bo Nix made his debut but had limited passing yards with 2 interceptions. - What was the key reason Seattle won
Better yardage per play, more efficient offence, and the ability to convert when needed. Denver struggled with conversion and had fewer yards per play. - How did the Broncos rookie QB perform
Bo Nix completed 26 of 42 for 138 yards, had a rushing touchdown, but threw 2 interceptions in his debut game. - Did the Broncos rushing offence work well
They rushed 25 times for 99 yards, a decent effort but not enough to dominate the game. - How did Seattle’s rushing offence perform
Very well, Kenneth Walker III alone had 103 yards and a touchdown, which gave a strong base for the offence. - How is the historical rivalry between these teams
The Broncos Seahawks rivalry is historic. They’ve played 58 times and Denver leads 35 to 23 in total matchups. - What will Denver need to improve moving forward
Better passing yardage, fewer mistakes such as interceptions, better third down conversion, and stronger overall offensive efficiency. - What strengths did Seattle show
Effective rushing game, decent passing efficiency, good ability to control the flow and limit opponent big plays. - Does this game tell us who will win the division or season
Not by itself, it’s just one game. But it gives early clues about where each team stands and areas of strength or weakness.
Relatable topic: Boston Celtics vs Orlando Magic OKC Thunder Beat Pelicans, Las Vegas Raiders vs Baltimore Ravens,
