Seahawks Lead Cowboys at Halftime as Geno Smith, Starters Get 1st Action
The Seattle Seahawks provided an early glimpse of what's to come this fall during the first half of Saturday night's preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys at Lumen Field.
Seattle rolled out many of its starters, including quarterback Geno Smith, for the first time this preseason, but was largely led by its rookies during an encouraging 30 minutes, leading Dallas 17-7 as both sides head to the locker room.
It was a brief but efficient showing from Smith, who completed five of six passes for 46 yards across two drives, one of which ended in a punt and the other a 57-yard field goal by Jason Myers.
Smith was replaced by backup quarterback Drew Lock, who led a pair of touchdown drives and went five of six for 119 yards, including a well-placed pass to rookie first-round receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for a gain of 48. The grab was one of three for the former Ohio State star, who finished the half with a team-high 58 receiving yards.
Similarly, the Seahawks' rushing attack was led by rookie second-round pick Zach Charbonnet, who took three carries for 31 yards, headlined by a big 29-yard run.
However, Seattle's two touchdowns came via a pair of other running backs in DeeJay Dallas and SaRodorick Thompson Jr., both finding paydirt from deep inside the redzone.
Undrafted rookie receiver Jake Bobo continued to flash, catching a 28-yard pass, while wideout Cody Thompson hauled in a big 32-yard gain. Starting tight end Noah Fant added a 21-yard reception while receiver Tyler Lockett recorded one catch for six yards.
Defensively, the Seahawks were led by undrafted rookie linebacker Patrick O'Connell, who had six tackles. Second-year edge defender Boye Mafe was a clear standout, finishing with two tackles while generating pressure.
Defensive tackles Jarran Reed and Myles Adams both added a sack, while fellow defensive tackle Roderick Perry II had a tackle for loss.
The Seahawks will be led by third-string quarterback Holton Ahlers during the second half, seeking to extend their lead over the Cowboys, who are set to receive the ball exiting the locker room.
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