They signed T Na'Shan Goddard off the New York Giants' practice squad, but that does not address their immediate needs for a backup center. If Vallos gets injured, converted guard Mansfield Wrotto will be the center. Wrotto has had trouble with the exchange in the past.

PLAYER NOTES

--C Chris Spencer was placed on IR with a sore back.

--QB Travis Lulay was released.

--OL Erik Robertson was signed to the practice squad.

--OT Na'Shan Goddard was signed off the New York Giants' practice squad.

--OT Walter Jones missed practice Wednesday with a sore leg but is expected to play against New England.

--WR Koren Robinson missed practice with a sore knee but will play against the Patriots.

--LB Leroy Hill is doubtful against New England because of a stinger that is not improving.

--G Mike Wahle is doubtful for Sunday's game with a shoulder injury.

--DT Red Bryant had limited participation in practice and could play in Sunday's game.

--S C.J. Wallace had limited participation in practice and could play in Sunday's game.

GAME PLAN: The Seahawks rank last in the NFL in pass defense, giving up 265 yards per game. They must find a way to contain New England's passing game, which features Randy Moss, who leads the team with eight touchdowns, and Wes Welker, who has 84 catches for 848 yards. The Seahawks also need to score touchdowns when they are in the red zone. They could not do that last week against Dallas, when they were forced to kick three field goals.

MATCHUPS TO WATCH: Seahawks CB Josh Wilson vs. Patriots WR Wes Welker - Wilson, who is listed at 5-foot-9, will face a big test in Welker, who ranks second in the NFL in receptions with 84.

Seahawks defensive line vs. Patriots offensive line: Seattle's defensive line has just seven sacks in the past five games. New England's offensive line has given up 40 sacks this season and was unable to keep Pittsburgh's pressure off Matt Cassel last week.

INJURY IMPACT: Walter Jones is suffering from a leg injury that hampered him last week against the Dallas Cowboys, when he uncharacteristically gave up two sacks, both to DeMarcus Ware. Jones will not practice all week.