Seattle at Denver

Seattle is a run-first team and plays hard-hitting defense for Coach Pete Carroll. Last year QB Russell Wilson became the first NFL quarterback in 27 seasons to lead his team in rushing. They add first-round draft pick rookie RB Rashaad Penny, a big back with a straight-ahead burst. The defense had key losses, but still has free safety Earl Thomas, linebackers Bobby Wagner and K.J. Wright. In addition, talented defensive tackle Tom Johnson comes over from the Vikings, joining Dion Jordan, and DE Frank Clark (22 sacks in three seasons). Seattle is 31-13 UNDER the total in September road games with an average final score of 17-16. The defense will shine against a lousy Denver offense that is putting its chips on new QB Case Keenum, with a 31-18 TD to interception ratio the last two years. The Broncos finished with 22 interceptions by the offense last year - only the Browns were worse. They still don't have a third-option in the passing game, a reliable running game, or a good offensive line. Denver's defense looks better than the offense, all of which means a low-scoring opener. Take this one to finish UNDER.