Denver Broncos (3-0 Preseason) vs. Seattle Seahawks (2-1 Preseason)
The start of the 2024 NFL season will undoubtedly be marked by an additional exciting contest as the Denver Broncos suffered no setbacks over the preseason and travel to battle the Seattle Seahawks on their home ground Field. Week 1 would be on Sunday, assuring most fans focused on daily NFL picks. Given that both teams look quite well during the preseason, this game establishes the baseline for their regular season and serves as a peek at how far they could go.
During the preseason, it is evident that Denver has also performed well, with the ground game extending to Blake Watson, who has evidently emerged as a focal point. Watson’s use of his lower body in tight quarters is encouraging, as he carried the ball an average of 3.2 yards per carry with 1 touch down. Hinging on the reception performance, Brandon Johnson has also managed to be a useful option. Averaging 26.3 yards per reception with a scoring touchdown to his credit, Johnson can be a key element in the game against Seattle’s defense, which at times has had issues with deep ball threats.
On the other hand, the Seahawks have their own heavyweight in the backfield with Kenny McIntosh, who has an amazing average of 8.4 yards per run. He has an impressive ability to change games with his powerful 56-yard break away from the defenders. Easop Winston Jr., despite playing in only two games, has contributed a lot in the receiving department. Considering the fact that Winston averages 15.4 yards a catch and has a touchdown to his name, properties and sharp routes by Winston will challenge and stretch the pace of the Broncos’ secondary.
Denver Broncos vs. Seattle Seahawks Game Info
| When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 4:05 PM ET |
| Where: | Lumen Field, Seattle |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Zach Wilson QB vs. Sam Howell QB
Zach Wilson has had a great preseason with a passer rating of 115.4. Wilson has been accurate, as evidenced by his completion percentage of 63.6 and three games with no interceptions, which indicates his preparation and improvement in judgment. He provides the ball well, even when the defense is aggressive (with 6 sacks against him), and he will need this against the Seahawks, who have a great pass rush.
In contrast, Sam Howell of the Seahawks completed 66% and achieved a good passing rating of 97.8. Also, Howell has shown two touchdowns while playing with 0 interceptions, which is a good indicator of his gaining confidence. What he has to do against the broncos is deal with their physical defense and find ways to keep himself productive when oppressed.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Seattle Seahawks -205, Total Odds: 42.5
The current betting lines favor the Seahawks with a -4.5 point spread and a moneyline of -205, reflecting confidence in their home-field advantage and preseason performance. The total set at 42.5 points, with odds leaning slightly towards the under, suggests expectations of a tightly contested, defensively driven game.
Denver Broncos Betting Trends
The Broncos have a mixed record against the spread (ATS), going 2-4 in their last six games. Additionally, the total has gone UNDER in eight of their last 12 games, indicating a trend towards lower-scoring outcomes which might influence betting strategies, particularly considering their 1-4-1 ATS record in recent encounters with Seattle.
Seattle Seahawks Betting Trends
Seattle shows a better trend, especially at home, with the total going OVER in four of their last five games at Lumen Field. Their overall record in September games is strong (12-6 SU in the last 18), which might tip the scales in their favor for early-season matchups.
Denver Broncos vs. Seattle Seahawks 9/8/24 Betting Picks
Considering the in-depth analysis and prevailing betting trends, the Seahawks appear poised to capitalize on their home advantage and recent performance patterns. Denver’s resilience in preseason shows potential, but Seattle’s robust September history and strong offensive dynamics make them the safer bet.
The total going UNDER might be a prudent pick for those looking at alternative betting options, given both teams’ recent defensive efficiencies. Prop bets on individual player performances, like McIntosh’s rushing yards or Wilson’s passing completions, could offer additional value. This game, likely to be dominated by strategic plays and defensive prowess, should lean towards a Seahawks victory at one of the top sportsbooks.
Free Pick and Prediction: Seattle Seahawks 24, Denver Broncos 17
