NFL Week 1: Everything You Need to Know

Week 1 is the moment fans have been waiting for all off‑season. The lights are back on, the stadiums are buzzing, and the TV guides are full. If you’re wondering when the first games kick off, how to watch them, or which matchups could surprise you, you’re in the right spot.

When and Who Plays

The opening slate traditionally rolls out on Thursday night, Friday night, and a full slate on Sunday. Thursday night starts at 8:20 PM ET with the defending champion kicking off the night. Friday night features a single game at 8:15 PM ET, usually a West Coast team that wants an early spotlight. Sunday brings the bulk of the action, with a 1:00 PM ET early game, a 4:25 PM ET primetime slot, and a 8:20 PM ET night game.

Key matchups this year include the rivalry between the new‑look Chiefs and the Chargers, the classic showdown of the Packers vs. Bears on Sunday afternoon, and a surprise Thursday night duel featuring the Vikings against a rising AFC team. Keep an eye on the kickoff times because early games can shift if there’s a scheduling conflict.

How to Catch the Action

Most games air on the big three broadcast networks – CBS, FOX, and NBC – with Thursday night on NFL Network and streaming platforms. If you have a basic cable package, you’ll see most Sunday games on CBS (AFC) or FOX (NFC). For the night game, NBC’s “Sunday Night Football” is the go‑to.

Streaming options are straightforward: You can use the NFL app, which offers free local and primetime streams on most devices. Services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV also carry the main networks, so you don’t need a cable box. Just make sure your internet is solid – 5 Mbps per stream is the sweet spot.

If you’re at a bar or a friend’s house, ask if they’ve got a sports package. Many places have big screens and a good vibe for the first night of football. And if you’re traveling, most stadiums now have reliable Wi‑Fi, so you can catch a replay on your phone after the game ends.

Lastly, don’t forget the fantasy angle. Week 1 is where you set the tone for your team. Look for players who have a strong matchup and a high snap count – that often means starters who missed training camp but are back in the lineup. Running backs with goal‑line opportunities and quarterbacks facing weak secondary teams are prime candidates for early points.

Bottom line: Mark the dates, set up your streaming, and pick a few player bets before the first whistle. Week 1 sets the narrative for the whole season, so getting the basics right will keep you in the conversation all year long.