As the NFL season kicks off, fans eagerly anticipate the thrilling matchups in Week 1. With no shortage of key matchups kicking off in week one that will give fans some insight into how well some teams did addressing issues in the offseason and draft. Here we will look at a few that you might want to tune into and keep a close eye on.
Kansas City Chiefs vs Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions, with their new coach Dan Campbell, will face the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. This game will provide an excellent opportunity to gauge the Lions’ potential against a powerhouse team.
Patrick Mahomes said the Kansas City Chiefs are focused on winning their second Super Bowl in a row.
“Everybody’s motivated by it,” Mahomes shared while reporting for training camp at Missouri Western State University. “You have to be motivated to do it again. And when you have that show and go through the offseason that I have, you want to do it again,” Mahomes said.
“You only get those opportunities by winning the Super Bowl. So for us, we want to make sure that we can go on and win that Super Bowl again because that moment, that feeling, is something you want to capture every time you get a chance to.”
Tennessee Titans vs New Orleans Saints
Another game that stands out is the clash between the Tennessee Titans and the New Orleans Saints. However, the Titans face a quarterback dilemma that could impact their performance in this game. Titans’ rookie QB Will Levis will be making his rookie debut; big things are expected from this University of Kentucky standout. Wildcats fans can use Kentucky promo codes to get in on the action. However, recent practice reports suggest that Levis may not be living up to the expectations set for him. It appears that the young quarterback is struggling to perform at the level anticipated by the coaching staff.
During the offseason, the Titans drafted Levis in the second round. Many assumed that Levis would immediately challenge Tannehill for the starting position. Surprisingly, the battle that has unfolded is between Levis and Malik Willis for the backup role. Reports indicate that Levis is currently being outplayed by Willis, the Titans’ former third-round pick.
Despite starting three games last season and finishing with a 1-2 record, the Titans’ front office believes that Levis has more potential than Willis based on their evaluations in 2022.
While Levis may represent the future of the Titans, it is essential to consider the team’s immediate needs. At 34 years old, Tannehill is still performing at a decent level. Cutting Willis loose this offseason would be shortsighted, as he could provide a better option if the Titans need a substitute for Tannehill during the season.
Moving on to the game itself, the Titans will face the Saints in what could be a defining moment for Derek Carr, the newly acquired quarterback for New Orleans. With uncertainties surrounding the quarterback position in the division, Carr’s presence under center may give the Saints an edge in the competitive NFC South.
San Fransico 49ers vs Pittsburgh Steelers
While the Titans at Saints game is undoubtedly one to watch in Week 1, other exciting matchups are on the schedule. The San Francisco 49ers will face the Pittsburgh Steelers, showcasing a battle between Sam Darnold and Kenny Pickett. The 49ers’ offense might appear lackluster due to their quarterback situation, while the Steelers hope that Pickett can prove himself as their franchise QB.
Buffalo Bills vs New York Jets
To round out Week 1, the Buffalo Bills will take on the New York Jets on Monday Night Football. The game marks the potential debut of Aaron Rodgers for the Jets, adding further excitement to this AFC East battle.
Additionally, the Dallas Cowboys will meet the New York Giants in an NFC East showdown on Sunday night. Both teams made the playoffs last season and will be looking forward to making a strong start this year.
Week 1 of the NFL season promises thrilling matchups and the chance to witness the next generation of stars in action.
