The NFL is finally back, and Week 1 couldn't look any better. Packed with rivalries, history, and even some international flavor, it's the perfect way to launch the 2025 season.

Eagles vs. Cowboys – A Rivalry Rekindled

The season opens Thursday night in Philadelphia, where the defending Super Bowl champions Eagles welcome a bitter rival, the Dallas Cowboys. On paper, the Eagles have every advantage. They went 14-3 last year and crushed Kansas City in the Super Bowl. Dallas, meanwhile, limped to a 7-10 record, missing the playoffs once again. To make things even messier, the Cowboys traded away superstar linebacker Micah Parsons to the Packers in a blockbuster deal.

Philadelphia dominated this matchup last year, outscoring Dallas 75–13 across two games. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, remains the heartbeat of the Eagles' offense. And maybe most importantly, his relationship with head coach Nick Sirianni looks stronger after some well-publicized strain last summer. Personally, I really like Nick. He just comes across as a genuine guy with his heart in the right place. I read a nice story about how he really lives to help other people do their job, and it wasn't about football strategy, it was more about showing up for the people around him. Honestly, how can you not like a guy like that?

It's hard not to see the Eagles as heavy favorites, but in divisional football, you never rule out an upset.

Make sure to check out the latest predictions from XG Picks on this matchup. We have a steady 70.3% accuracy rate!

Chiefs vs. Chargers – NFL Lands in Brazil

Friday night history will be made. For the first time ever, the NFL plays a regular season game in South America as the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo. The big question: Who will step up behind Mahomes? On the other side, the Chargers begin a new era under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Chiefs are clear favorites, but I can't shake the feeling this could be closer than people expect. Either way, the crowd in São Paulo is going to witness history – and one heck of a football game.

Last season, the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes squared off against the Chargers, and Kansas City came out on top with a 17–10 win that kept their perfect start alive at 4–0. It wasn't all smooth sailing though, Mahomes spent much of the night under pressure. Still, as he usually does, he found a way to get it done.

Sunday's Showdown: Ravens vs. Bills

If you only watch one game on Sunday, make it this one. Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen under the primetime lights feels like must-see TV. Their playoff battle last season was wild, and the rematch promises the same energy. Allen and Jackson might be the most entertaining quarterback duo in the league right now. Buckle up.

Personally, I can't wait for Eagles–Cowboys to set the tone on Thursday, but Chiefs–Chargers in Brazil might just steal the weekend. And Ravens–Bills on Sunday night? No way I'm skipping that one.

Have a great week – and don't forget to check out XG Picks predictions before you lock in your bets!

Week 1 Schedule

Thursday, September 4

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles

Friday, September 5

Kansas City Chiefs @ Los Angeles Chargers (São Paulo)

Sunday, September 7

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons
Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns
Miami Dolphins @ Indianapolis Colts
Carolina Panthers @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Las Vegas Raiders @ New England Patriots
Arizona Cardinals @ New Orleans Saints
Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Jets
New York Giants @ Washington Commanders
Tennessee Titans @ Denver Broncos
San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks
Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers
Houston Texans @ Los Angeles Rams
Baltimore Ravens @ Buffalo Bills

Monday, September 8

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears

Make sure to check out our AI predictions throughout the season!

NFL Week 1: A Season Opener to Remember