Football is back for the Seahawks and Broncos.

The first preseason game is everybody's first chance to hit somebody, and for the QB it's the first time of the year that they are forced to take a shot or two. There was certainly plenty of that Friday night, as the teams combined for 9 sacks, in what was a challenge to both and their young offensive lines.

Seattle seemed to really struggle to get their timing right with their new starters on the offensive front, giving up 7 of the combined 9 sacks. This would be an area of concern if Week 1 of the regular season was right around the corner, but this is the first real action for everybody and that timing will improve as these guy get more reps. Justin Britt seems to have left off exactly where he was last season, continuing to underwhelm at pass blocking and allowing Von Miller through to force a strip sack from Russell Wilson.

That was pretty much the story from the first unit, they were never able to get into a rhythm, failing to capitalize on a big return from Tyler Lockett, on a drive that only yielded a field goal. Lockett was the star of the night, wowing people with his return game in which he gained 186 yards on 4 returns, including a 103 yard return that had Pete Carroll so distracted he collided with a official that was running down the sidelines. Seattle also saw a big performance from rookie Frank Clark, who recorded 9 tackles and a forced fumble, and always seemed to be in the backfield ready to pounce. Other standouts included WR Kevin Smith, SS Keenan Lambert, and RB Rod Smith.

Denver came out in the first half looking very aggressive, pressuring the QB early and dominating field position and time of possession with their running game. QB Brock Osweiler provided the broncos with a solid performance, proving to be both effective and efficient, missing only 5 passes on 20 attempts. Osweiler was able to get the ball out of his hands quick, something that Peyton Manning has used against Seattle and been effective with.

The offensive line delivered an admirable performance only giving up one sack against Seattle's top defense. The young group held their own in the passing game, and created big holes for halfbacks Monte Ball and C.J. Anderson.

The real bright spot for Denver was their defense, which totaled 7 sacks, and always seemed to be in the QB's face. They also limited Seattle in the running game only allowing 85 yards combined from Seattle's backfield. Two players that stood out in particular include OLB Shaquil Barrett and DE Kenny Anunike.

Barrett's performance drew strong praise from teammate Von Miller. "I'm not surprised with Shaq: a natural pass rusher," Miller said. "He might not look like it, but I guarantee you that when you see him on the film, he has a large arsenal of moves. He understands how to pressure and how to stay in the lane and get there. Shaq is going to be great."

Other players that stood out were QB Trevor Siemian, DE Malik Jackson, and WR Bennie Fowler.

In the end, the Broncos just made more plays, edging Seattle by two. This game provided good performances from both teams, and should raise expectations for the next time these teams hit the field.