First half summary: Seahawks lead Broncos 17-13

A strong start has been fueled by Geno Smith.

The Seattle Seahawks have their first two quarters of football in the books and they are off to an unexpectedly strong start. The Seahawks lead the Broncos – who were favored by a touchdown – 17-13 at the intermission.

The biggest reason for this surprisingly hot first half? Longtime backup-turned-starting quarterback Geno Smith. In his first start in eight long years, Geno Smith completed an astonishing 17-of-18 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns. Smith was responsible for the first touchdown of the season when he found a wide open Will Dissly for a 38-yard score.

Geno Smith later found his other tight end, third-year pro Colby Parkinson, for a 25-yard score to help the Seahawks regain the lead.

Defensively, the Seahawks have been performing adequately against their former quarterback. Russell Wilson was held to only 10-of-15 passing, but for 206 yards thanks to a 67-yard score to Jerry Jeudy. Seattle’s pass rush has been delivering consistent pressure, and managing to bring him down with two sacks from linebackers Cody Barton and Uchenna Nwosu.

A bit of concerning news regarding star strong safety Jamal Adams. He was carted off following a blitz of Wilson and was listed as doubtful to return.

The Denver Broncos will receive the ball to start the second half.