A look at the match against Seattle

GAME PLAN

WHEN SEAHAWKS WORKS

Seattle could use its four halves, led by Chris Carson and first-round pick Rashaad Penny. The Seahawks are looking for a race match since the departure of Marshawn Lynch in Oakland. Carson averaged 4.1 yards in 22 races and was third in a row against C. J. Prosise. The Broncos' advanced defense improved as the pre-season progressed. One of the keys is how Derek Wolfe and Adam Gotsis and nose striker Domata Peko absorb blockages to free linebackers. The Broncos led the league last year with the lowest allowed yards per carry (3.3).

Edge: Broncos.

WHEN THE SEAHAWKS PASS

If we count a quarter this year who can use his athletics to half-out the Broncos passes, it's Russell Wilson. Wilson (65-30-1 as a regular season starter) will fight sideways and in reverse to save time and frustrate the Broncos. It is also difficult to blitz because it would evacuate Wilson from the middle of the field; his 30 rushes of at least 10 yards last year were seventh in the league and lead among the quarterbacks. A difficult test for the Broncos' half-backs, which includes Bradley Roby who moved to second place and Adam Jones / Tramaine Brock in third place.

Edge: Seahawks.

WHEN BRONCOS RUN

Rookie Royce Freeman won the semifinal contest on Devontae Booker. Freeman scored three touchdowns in the pre-season, leaving Booker playing a minor role and rookie Phillip Lindsay becoming a pace-change option. Seattle finished 19th against the race last year and one of the rare defensive beginners is the excellent linebacker Bobby Wagner. The 4-3 back of the Seahawks includes former second-round pick Jarran Reed and third-round rookie Rasheem Green. But look for Freeman to show that the scene is not too big for him and that Lindsay will have more contacts (rushes / receptions) than Booker.

Edge: Broncos.

WHEN THE BRONCOS PASS