As the NFL season kicks off, fans are in for a thrilling weekend of football action, with 32 teams ready to take the field. In this comprehensive guide to Week 1, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the upcoming games, where to watch, and the most intriguing storylines to follow. Let’s dive in!
How to Watch NFL
The excitement begins at 1 p.m. ET, with eight games kicking off simultaneously, followed by seven more throughout the day and a Monday night showdown. In the United States, you can catch all the action on the NFL’s ‘NFL+’ platform, ESPN, FOX, NBC, and CBS. Sunday’s prime-time matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants will be nationally broadcast on NBC, while Monday night features the Buffalo Bills facing the New York Jets on ESPN. Fans outside the US can also follow the games through the NFL’s Game Pass on DAZN.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Cleveland Browns
Ohio Derby The opening weekend features an Ohio derby, pitting the Cincinnati Bengals against the Cleveland Browns. Expectations are high for both teams, with the Bengals led by star quarterback Joe Burrow, who recently signed a new long-term deal. After reaching the Super Bowl in 2021 and the AFC Championship last year, the Bengals are eager to capitalize on their success window with Burrow, wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, and head coach Zac Taylor at their peak.
On the other side, the Cleveland Browns have high hopes, especially with the addition of quarterback Deshaun Watson. Watson’s suspension last season due to sexual misconduct allegations cast a shadow over his career, but he’s set to return this season with a full preseason of training. The AFC North division looks competitive, making a Week 1 win crucial for both teams.
Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants
Historic Rivalry NFL traditionalists will relish the historic matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants, one of the league’s fiercest rivalries. Both teams aim to bounce back from disappointing seasons and have undergone significant changes.
The Cowboys will take the field without former star running back Ezekiel Elliott and offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. The spotlight is on head coach Mike McCarthy to make the team’s offense thrive, with the addition of wide receiver Brandin Cooks adding to quarterback Dak Prescott’s arsenal.
For the Giants, they seek to build on last season’s growth under head coach Brian Daboll. Quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley are key players to watch. With the acquisition of tight end Darren Waller, the Giants have playoff aspirations for the first time since 2008.
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets
Clash of Titans The final game of Week 1 features the Buffalo Bills facing the New York Jets, a clash between an established superpower and an up-and-coming team. The Bills, led by quarterback Josh Allen, wide receiver Stefon Diggs, and linebacker Von Miller, aim to bounce back from a disappointing previous season. The return of safety Damar Hamlin after a cardiac arrest adds to their story.
The Jets, with the arrival of Aaron Rodgers, have become a team to watch. Young talents like Sauce Gardner, Breece Hall, and Garrett Wilson, combined with veterans Rodgers, C.J. Mosley, and D.J. Reed, make the Jets contenders for a deep playoff run.
Week 1 Schedule NFL
- Carolina Panthers @ Atlanta Falcons
- Houston Texans @ Baltimore Ravens
- Jacksonville Jaguars @ Indianapolis Colts
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Minnesota Vikings
- Tennessee Titans @ New Orleans Saints
- San Francisco 49ers @ Pittsburgh Steelers
- Arizona Cardinals @ Washington Commanders
- Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears
- Las Vegas Raiders @ Denver Broncos
- Miami Dolphins @ Los Angeles Chargers
- Philadelphia Eagles @ New England Patriots
- Los Angeles Rams @ Seattle Seahawks
Week 1 promises excitement, rivalry, and suspense as teams vie for a strong start to the NFL season. Be sure to catch your favorite games and follow the compelling storylines that unfold on the field.