Seahawks vs Cowboys Prediction & Betting Tips for NFL Preseason Week 1 on 8/15/2026

The 2026 preseason kicks off with an intriguing game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Set against the backdrop of overcast clouds, this Saturday night game promises an exciting start to the season. Fans can catch the action live on NFLN at 8:00 PM.

The Dallas Cowboys, led by head coach Brian Schottenheimer, are looking to improve on their 7-9-1 record from last season. While they missed the playoffs, their strong divisional record of 4-2-0 offers some hope. Offensive coordinator Klayton Adams and defensive coordinator Christian Parker will be key in driving the team's success this year.

The Seattle Seahawks, on the other hand, had an impressive 14-3-0 season, culminating in a Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots. With head coach Mike Macdonald at the helm, the Seahawks boast a strong team that performed well both at home and on the road. The team's last season success, including a 41-6 win over the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round, sets high expectations for this season.

In terms of betting odds, the Seahawks hold the advantage with a moneyline of -191, compared to the Cowboys' +159. The spread favors Seattle by 3.5 points, with the total set at 39.5 points. Both teams will be eager to set the tone for the new season in this preseason opener.

Seahawks vs Cowboys At a Glance (Preseason Week 1)

• The Dallas Cowboys will face the Seattle Seahawks in the 2026 Preseason Week 1.
• The game will be held at Lumen Field in Seattle, WA.
• The weather forecast predicts overcast clouds with warm and calm conditions.
• Last season, the Cowboys had a 7-9-1 record and did not make the playoffs.
• The Seahawks finished last season with a 14-3-0 record and won the Super Bowl.
• Game odds show the Seahawks favored with a moneyline of -191, while the Cowboys are at +159.

Seahawks Soar into 2026: What to Expect in the Upcoming Game

Offensive Overview

The Seattle Seahawks showcased a potent offense last season, finishing with 483 total points, ranking them 3rd in the league. Averaging 28.4 points per game, they were a consistent threat to any defense they faced. Their offensive yardage was also impressive, with 5973 yards placing them 8th in the league.

In the air, the Seahawks amassed 3877 passing yards, which was the 8th best in the NFL. They also maintained a strong rushing game, gaining 2096 yards on the ground, ranking 10th. This balanced offensive approach made them a difficult team to contain.

Defensive Strengths

Seattle's defense was equally formidable, allowing only 292 points throughout the season, the fewest in the NFL. They excelled at limiting opponent offensive yardage to 4860, ranking them 6th in the league. Particularly impressive was their ability to stop the run, holding teams to just 91.9 rushing yards per game, ranking 3rd overall.

The Seahawks' defensive pressure was also notable, with 47 sacks placing them 6th in the league. Their secondary contributed significantly with 18 interceptions, 4th best, showcasing their ability to disrupt the passing game effectively.

Key Players and Injuries

Quarterback Sam Darnold will be leading the offense, having thrown for 4048 yards and 25 touchdowns last season. Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is expected to be a key target, coming off a season with 1793 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. However, the team will miss running back Zach Charbonnet, who is out with a knee injury.

On the defensive side, players like Leonard Williams and Uchenna Nwosu will be crucial in maintaining their strong defensive presence. Safety Nick Emmanwori is also out with an ankle injury, which may impact their secondary depth.

Upcoming Game Details

The Seahawks are set to play their first preseason game at home against the Dallas Cowboys on August 15, 2026, at Lumen Field. This game will provide an early glimpse into how the team has adjusted during the offseason. The Seahawks are favored by 3.5 points, and the total points line is set at 38.5.

This matchup will be a test of the Seahawks' depth, especially with some key players sidelined. It will also be an opportunity to see how their rookies and new additions perform under game conditions.

Team Betting Trends

• Seattle went undefeated as favorites in their last 11 regular season games in 2025.
• The Seahawks won their last 7 regular season games, finishing the 2025 season strong.
• They covered the spread in their last 5 home preseason games from 2023 to 2025.
• Seattle is 5-0 against the spread after a loss in the last 5 preseason games from 2022 to 2025.
• At home, they are 5-0 straight up in their last 5 regular season games in 2025.

Cowboys Ready to Ride: Dallas Cowboys Preview for the Upcoming Game

Quarterback Situation

Dak Prescott remains the leading figure for the Cowboys' offense this preseason. Last regular season, Prescott threw for 4,552 yards, placing him 3rd in the league, and led the team with 30 passing touchdowns. Joe Milton III, also on the depth chart, provides support as a backup option, having appeared in four games last season.

Running Back Depth

Javonte Williams is expected to be a key contributor in the Cowboys' backfield. In the previous season, Williams rushed for 1,201 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, making him a vital part of their offensive game plan. Supporting Williams is Jaydon Blue, who is poised to step up when called upon.

Wide Receiver Core

George Pickens and CeeDee Lamb form a formidable receiving duo for the Cowboys. Pickens recorded 1,429 receiving yards and nine touchdowns last season, while Lamb added 1,077 yards to the air attack. Both receivers are integral to the team's passing game strategy.

Tight End Options

Jake Ferguson is slated to lead the tight end group for the Cowboys. Last season, Ferguson contributed with 82 receptions and 600 receiving yards. His presence will be crucial for intermediate passing plays and red zone targets.

Defensive Outlook

On the defensive end, the Cowboys will look to improve from their previous performance. They ranked 31st in opponent passing yards last season, which remains an area of focus. The defensive line, led by Quinnen Williams, aims to apply pressure and disrupt the opposing offense.

Injury Concerns

The Cowboys are dealing with some injuries as they approach the game. Matt Hennessy and Princeton Fant are both out for the season, which impacts their depth on the offensive line and tight end positions. These absences necessitate adjustments and contributions from other players.

Betting Trends

• Over/Under in home preseason games: 7-0 in the last seven games.
• Over/Under in away regular-season games: 7-0 in the last seven games.
• Over/Under for all regular-season games: 6-0 in the last six games.
• Over/Under as a favorite in regular-season games: 5-0 in the last five games.
• Over/Under with totals of 50 or more in regular-season games: 5-0 in the last five games.

Seahawks vs Cowboys Prediction: Over 39.5

The Dallas Cowboys offense was ranked 6th in points per game last season, averaging 27.7. Their defense, however, struggled, allowing 30.1 points per game, ranking 31st. This combination of offensive firepower and defensive vulnerability suggests a high-scoring game.

On the other hand, the Seattle Seahawks had a strong offensive showing last season, ranking 3rd with an average of 28.4 points per game. Their defense was top-notch, allowing only 17.2 points per game, the best in the league. Despite their defensive prowess, the preseason often sees different dynamics with starters playing limited snaps.

Given the preseason context, where teams often rotate players and experiment with lineups, scoring can be unpredictable. The previous head-to-head encounters also hint at higher scoring potential, with totals frequently exceeding 39.5 points in prior matchups.

Taking into account the offensive capabilities of both teams, combined with the relaxed defensive setups typically seen in preseason games, betting on the 'Over 39.5' seems like a prudent choice. A projected score of Seahawks 28 - Cowboys 21 supports this over prediction.

• Seahawks vs Cowboys Prediction: Over 39.5
• Seahawks vs Cowboys Score: Seahawks 28 - Cowboys 21

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