Dallas at Seattle, Week 2
Start of Game
The Result
Fullback Michael Robinson shows that he can play a little defense -- Penn State is Linebacker U, after all -- and knocks the ball free, with All-Pro safety Earl Thomas swooping in to pounce on the ball.
The Stat: +.12 WPA for Seattle
Anytime you can gain a quick boost on the first play of the game, you're in pretty good shape. While the Hawks were only able to manage a field goal, but this was only the first strike from the Special Teams unit.
The Situation, Part Deux
First Quarter, 10:28 to go
Dallas' ball, 4th and 5 from their own 21.
The Result
Malcom Smith makes a move up the middle and gets free enough to get a hand on Jones' punt. Safety Jeron Johnson picks up the free ball and works his way into the promised land for six.
The Stat: +.17 WPA for Seattle
At this point the Seahawks are up 10-0 without a real offensive possession. Playing with a physical defense at
Seattle would go on to win 27-7 and upset many members of the media, including Marshall Faulk. The Cowboys never had better than a 41% WP after the first play of the game.
