Raiders vs Seahawks: Preseason Thriller Ends in 23–23 Tie
A Tale of Familiar Faces & Preseason Drama
The much-anticipated preseason showdown between the Las Vegas Raiders and Seattle Seahawks unfolded tonight at Seattle’s Lumen Field. While the game ended in a deadlock—23–23—it was anything but dull, packed with emotional returns, rookies making waves, and strategic evaluations.
Raiders legend Pete Carroll, now leading Las Vegas as head coach, made his emotional return to the Seattle sidelines for the first time since departing the Seahawks in 2025 . Reunited with quarterback Geno Smith, whom he brought to the Raiders this offseason, Carroll looked to assess his revamped roster under real-game pressure .
Game Highlights & Key Moments
-
Final Score: Seahawks 23, Raiders 23—a competitive tie with both sides making late pushes .
-
Blocked Game-Winner: In the dying seconds, a potential game-winning 55-yard field goal by Raiders’ Daniel Carlson was blocked by Jalan Gaines, preserving the tie .
-
Defensive Spark: Raiders safety Isaiah Pola-Mao sparked interest by intercepting Seahawks QB Drew Lock in the first quarter .
-
Offensive Roster Insights: Seattle's 90-man roster carried the weight of preseason expectations, especially with International Player Pathway participant Federico Maranges getting a rare 91st spot .
Preseason Purpose & What’s Next
This game was more than just a score—it was a crucial litmus test:
-
Evaluating Lineups: The Raiders experimented with a new offensive line setup, featuring Jordan Meredith at center—an unorthodox move that could have roster implications going forward t.
-
Rookie Watch: Players like Tre Tucker, Dont’e Thornton, and Ashton Jeanty are fighting for roles, while rookies in Seattle are also carving out their preseason narrative .
-
Strategic Insights: For Carroll and his coaching staff, the preseason isn’t excitement for its own sake—it’s about testing formations, chemistry, and depth ahead of the real season .
At-a-Glance: Game Summary
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Final Score | 23–23 tie |
| Blocked FG | Daniel Carlson’s 55-yard attempt blocked by Jalan Gaines |
| Notable Defense Play | Isaiah Pola‑Mao’s interception in 1st quarter |
| Emotional Storyline | Pete Carroll’s return to Seattle, reunited with QB Geno Smith |
| Roster Developments | New offensive center (Meredith); rookies making their case |
| Game Purpose | Evaluating lineups, rookies, and building team chemistry |
Key Takeaways
-
Scoreboard doesn’t reflect effort: A tied preseason opener masked the intensity and high-stakes feel on the field.
-
Carroll’s sentimental return: The emotional narrative added context to what’s usually a tune-up game.
-
Instinctive defense makes statement: Pola‑Mao’s interception was a highlight, especially for a young roster.
-
Blocked kick rewinds momentum: Carlson’s missed opportunity reminded fans that preseason intensity can mirror the real thing.
-
Room for rising stars: Merely earning reps in this game could help shape these players’ futures.
Final Thoughts
The Raiders vs Seahawks preseason opener was more than just a glide through exhibition football. It embodied transition—legendary coach returns, a reunion with a familiar quarterback, and roster shakeups across both sidelines. The 23–23 draw left fans wanting more, but more importantly, it gave both teams a meaningful performance benchmark.
