As football fans continue to think of “the play” in the Super Bowl, the Seattle Seahawks are on to the 2015 season. Jimmy Graham is the biggest, both literally and figuratively, representation of this. The tight end was acquired from the New Orleans Saints in exchange for starting center Max Unger. Yet, even in this move the goal line interception in the Super Bowl looms large as Graham would have provided a big, redzone target on the infamous Super Bowl interception play. Seattle’s draft picks included defensive player Frank Clark and wide receiver Tyler Lockett. Lockett will contribute in the return game and already had a kickoff return of 103 yards for a touchdown.
Beyond acquiring Jimmy Graham and the NFL Draft, the Seahawks spent the remainder of the offseason taking care of their own. Russell Wilson signed a contract extension for a reported four-years and $87.6 million. Linebacker Bobby Wagner also signed a contract extension.
The Kansas City Chiefs look to build on their solid 9-7 2014 season. The Chiefs bolstered their offense by adding wide receiver Jeremy Maclin this offseason. They drafted Washington corner Marcus Peters with the 18th selection of the first round.
One of the critiques of the Chiefs in recent years is the lack of downfield plays. Fans have wondered whether the shortage of longer passes is due to quarterback Alex Smith’s arm or a lack of talent at the receiver position. With the addition of Maclin, the answer should become clearer this season. The Chiefs already find themselves at an advantage over most teams with running back Jamaal Charles. A little more explosiveness on offense combined with their stout run game and defense could push the Chiefs back in the playoffs.
The preseason gives us a glimpse into the new rosters for the Seahawks and Chiefs, even if the starters do not play for much of the game. Here are all the details on Friday’s exhibition contest:
The Basics
Who:
Seattle Seahawks vs. Kansas City Chiefs
When:
Friday, August 21st, 7 PM CT
Channel:
NFL Network
Where:
Arrowhead Stadium; Kansas City, Missouri
Line:
(Odds are according to OddsShark and subject to change)
Seattle Seahawks +1
Kansas City Chiefs -1
Last Meeting:
According to The Football Database, the two teams met during last season. The Chiefs won 24-20 at Arrowhead Stadium. Jamaal Charles rushed for 159 yards and two touchdowns against Seattle’s stout defensive line.
Seattle Seahawks Preview
The Seattle Seahawks lost their first preseason game against the Denver Broncos 22-20. The game left all the 12s wondering about the offensive line for the upcoming season. Russell Wilson was pressured on just about ever play. There were also several bad snaps as the Seahawks look to replace center Max Unger. Lemuel Jean-Pierre started the first game but did not blow the Seahawks away with his play at center.
Safety Kam Chancellor is still holding out for a new contract. Currently, DeShawn Shead is listed as the next man up at strong safety on the depth chart.
The first game offered a bit of good news for Seattle with rookie Tyler Lockett’s excellent returns, including a 103-yard touchdown. Rookie defensive end Frank Clark also had an impressive performance against Denver’s first and second team. Seahawks fans will be watching the offensive line play against the Chiefs to see if there is any improvement.
Kansas City Chiefs Preview
The big story from the Chiefs first preseason game was the return of Eric Berry. Nine months ago Berry was diagnosed with Hogkin’s lymphoma and has returned to football cancer-free. It is certainly an inspiring story.
Kansas City defeated Arizona 34-19 in their first preseason contest. The starters did not play for much of the game. Alex Smith passed for 42 yards and 1 interception. New receiver Jeremy Maclin had just one catch for 12 yards. Backup quarterback Chase Daniel was impressive in the first game. He completed 17 of 21 pass attempts for 189 yards and 3 touchdowns.
Chiefs fans should expect to see the starters more against the Seahawks. The game offers the offense a nice test against one of the best defenses in the league. It would be nice to start seeing Smith and Maclin build some momentum heading into the season.