Defending champions Seattle Seahawks staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the New England Patriots 13-10 in their NFL season opener. This matchup marked the first time in a decade that the season started with a Super Bowl rematch, where the Seahawks' formidable defense, dubbed 'the Dark Side,' once again shone.

The game began with a setback for Seattle as quarterback Sam Darnold suffered a hip injury on the opening drive. Despite this, the Seahawks' defense rose to the occasion, recording three crucial interceptions in the final quarter at Lumen Field.

New England took an early lead at 10-0, highlighted by rookie tight end Eli Raridon scoring the season's first touchdown in the second quarter.

Seattle's fortunes changed in the third quarter when back-up quarterback Drew Lock ignited the offense. Kicker Jason Myers narrowed the score with a field goal.

Key moments included:

• Nehemiah Pritchett intercepting a pass from Drake Maye at the start of the fourth quarter after a deflection by rookie Rodney Thomas.
• Lock connecting with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a 45-yard touchdown, bringing the Seahawks back into contention.
• Julian Love intercepting Maye, allowing Myers to put Seattle ahead with a 26-yard field goal.

Despite being in field-goal range with 21 seconds left, the Patriots opted for a win rather than overtime. This decision backfired as Maye's pass intended for Mack Hollins was intercepted by Josh Jobe in the end zone.

Notably, Maye faced a challenging game, throwing multiple interceptions, a repeat of his Super Bowl performance. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that initial tests indicated Darnold did not fracture his hip.

Looking ahead, week one features the NFL's first regular-season game in Australia, with the Los Angeles Rams facing the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne.