Seahawks vs Broncos 2018 NFL Week 1 Lines & Prediction

The Denver Broncos kick off the 2018-2019 NFL Season with a new quarterback, Case Keenum, and Round 1 DE pick in Bradley Chubb. Can Denver start the season off with a victory, or will the Seattle Seahawks continue the Broncos’ 2017 misery? The Seahawks are favorites in the NFL odds for Week 1.

Seahawks vs Broncos 2018 NFL Week 1 Lines & Prediction

Why Seattle is a good bet at +3?

The Seahawks upgraded their offensive line last season by trading for Houston starting left tackle Duane Brown. Brown got a huge contract during the offseason. He’s healthy and should provide Russell Wilson the protection he’s lacked the past few years. When Russell can sit longer in the pocket, good things happen. The real key for Brown is to open the edge for running backs Rashaad Penny and Chris Carson. Both should get plenty of carries in this game. If Brown can hold Von Miller by himself, Seattle can help with Chubb on the other side. That could spring Penny and Carson for long gains while allowing Wilson the time he needs to find downfield receivers.

Team Statistics

Offense:

• Average Score For: 22.88
• Total Yards: 334.81
• Pass Yards: 233
• Rush Yards: 101.81

Defense:

• Average Score Against: 20.75
• Total Yards: 323.31
• Pass Yards: 209.25
• Rush Yards: 114.06

Why Denver is a good bet at -3?

Denver improved its offense by signing quarterback Case Keenum and drafting running back Royce Freeman. The key, like Seattle’s, is the offensive line. If the offensive line, specifically LT Garrett Bolles, can handle Seattle’s weakside pressure, the Broncos should move the football. The Broncos’ defense hasn’t looked special in two NFL Preseason games. It’s only preseason, though. Any team with defensive players like Von Miller, Bradley Chubb, and cornerback Chris Harris should perform.

Team Statistics

Offense:

• Average Score For: 18.06
• Total Yards: 324.25
• Pass Yards: 208.19
• Rush Yards: 116.06

Defense:

• Average Score Against: 23.88
• Total Yards: 290
• Pass Yards: 200.62
• Rush Yards: 89.38

Seahawks vs Broncos NFL Betting Analysis: Denver starts the season with a win and cover

Offensive line play is the key for both teams. Both offensive lines should play well. That gives the edge to the Broncos. First, Seattle’s defense in no way resembles the Legion of Boom D that won the 2014 Super Bowl. Denver’s D does resemble the team that won the 2016 Super Bowl with the addition of the best defensive player in this year’s draft, Bradley Chubb. Second, Wilson lacks wide receiving talent. He even lacks a tight-end to throw the football too.  That’s not the case with Keenum who can throw to DeMaryius Thomas, Emanuel Sanders, or tight-ends Jeff Heuerman and Jake Butt. Denver wins and covers. NFL Week 1 Pick: Denver Broncos -3