6. Seattle Seahawks (LW: 8)
The defending champs bounced back, but not in an overwhelmingly convincing fashion that made us feel silly for doubting them. This defense is clearly not as elite as it was during the playoff stretch last season, and this offense is lacking. Still, a win on the road against a stingy Carolina team propels the Seahawks to over .500 and within striking distance of the NFC West-leading Cardinals.
What to know:Â That East Coast swing — it’s real. Over the past three seasons, Seattle is 22-6 in games that begin at 4 p.m. ET and 5-5 in games that begin at 1 p.m. ET (ESPN Stats & Info).
