5 questions and answers about Patriots vs. Seahawks in NFL Week 1

Key Points:

• The Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots last faced each other in the Super Bowl, but both teams, especially the Patriots, have undergone significant changes since then, making the upcoming matchup less predictable.
• Seahawks defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald is expected to maintain the general defensive strategy used in the Super Bowl but will likely simplify schemes to avoid communication errors, while new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury may introduce slight adjustments as he gains experience in play calling.
• Offensively, the Seahawks might see changes in their running game approach under Fleury, especially with a shift from wide-zone to more gap runs for running back Kenneth Walker, though matching the previous offensive output could be challenging.
• The Seahawks face potential secondary weaknesses due to offseason losses of key players like Riq Woolen and Coby Bryant, compounded by preseason injuries, which could lead to early-season communication issues and reliance on less experienced or practice squad players.
• Quarterback Sam Darnold has shown improvement but remains under scrutiny due to inconsistent performances; with Brian Fleury as his seventh offensive coordinator in seven seasons, questions remain about the Seahawks' ability to perform effectively, especially in high-scoring shootout scenarios.