NFL Season 2024: What You Need to Know About Week 1 Picks, Scores, Games, and Schedule

The NFL is back, and fans around the globe are excited to follow their favorite teams throughout the 2024 season. Week 1 sets the tone for what promises to be an electrifying season, filled with thrilling matchups, standout performances, and dramatic finishes. Whether you’re an avid follower or a casual viewer, staying updated on NFL scores, NFL games, and the NFL schedule is essential for getting the full experience.

NFL Week 1 Overview

Week 1 is always an important week for teams in the NFL. It’s the time when teams get a fresh start, and fans begin to set their expectations for the season. The official NFL schedule lays out some of the most anticipated games of the year, with both veterans and newcomers ready to make their mark. Let’s dive into the matchups, notable players, and what to expect from this exciting opening week.

Top Week 1 NFL Games to Watch

The 2024 NFL schedule has set up some explosive games for Week 1. Here are the top games you won’t want to miss:

1. Kansas City Chiefs vs. Detroit Lions: The Chiefs, reigning Super Bowl champions, open the season against a rising Detroit Lions team. Patrick Mahomes looks to continue his dominant play, but the Lions, led by Jared Goff, have built momentum that could surprise many.
2. Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets: The highly anticipated debut of Aaron Rodgers with the Jets is set for Week 1. Paired against Josh Allen and the Bills, this game could set the tone for the AFC East.
3. Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants: A historic rivalry renewed in Week 1, with Dak Prescott leading the Cowboys against a Giants team that is looking to build off last year’s playoff appearance.
4. Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots: The Eagles are coming off a stellar 2023 season, narrowly missing the Super Bowl title. They’ll face off against a Patriots team looking to rebound after a few down seasons under Bill Belichick.
5. San Francisco 49ers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: Two historically dominant franchises clash in Week 1. With Brock Purdy starting for the 49ers and Kenny Pickett leading the Steelers, this game promises to be a defensive showdown.

NFL Scores: Week 1 Standouts

As Week 1 unfolds, keeping track of NFL scores becomes crucial, especially for fans invested in fantasy football or betting on the games. The following matchups are expected to have significant scoring potential:

• Kansas City Chiefs vs. Detroit Lions: The Chiefs’ offense is one of the most potent in the league, with Travis Kelce as a prime target for Mahomes. Expect a high-scoring game if Detroit’s defense can’t contain the Chiefs.
• Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets: Both teams have firepower on offense, but defenses will play a crucial role in this game. With Stefon Diggs and Garrett Wilson on opposite ends, big plays are bound to happen.
• Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants: The Giants’ running game, led by Saquon Barkley, will be a key to controlling the tempo. However, the Cowboys’ defense, anchored by Micah Parsons, could limit the Giants’ scoring opportunities.
• San Francisco 49ers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: This could be a low-scoring affair, with both teams having top-tier defenses. The 49ers’ front seven, led by Nick Bosa, will challenge Pittsburgh’s offense.

Fantasy Football Insights: Week 1 NFL Games

For those heavily invested in fantasy football, Week 1 can make or break your season’s momentum. With so many exciting NFL games lined up, it’s essential to understand which players could give you the edge.

• Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): A must-start every week. Mahomes is facing a Detroit defense that was middle-of-the-pack last year. Expect big numbers.
• Aaron Rodgers (New York Jets): All eyes are on Rodgers in his first game as a Jet. He’s facing a tough Bills defense, but his veteran presence could lead to fantasy gold.
• Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers): McCaffrey is a dual-threat back, and he will be a major focal point in the 49ers’ offense. Even against a strong Steelers defense, McCaffrey is a top fantasy option.
• Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals): One of the top wide receivers in fantasy, Chase has a favorable matchup against the Browns. He’s bound to put up significant points.
• Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Kelce remains the top tight end in fantasy football. His chemistry with Mahomes is undeniable, making him a must-start every week.

NFL Schedule: Key Matchups for the 2024 Season

Looking beyond Week 1, the NFL schedule promises a series of thrilling matchups throughout the season. Teams will jostle for playoff positions as the year progresses, and many of these early games will be critical in determining their trajectories.

• Kansas City Chiefs vs. Cincinnati Bengals (Week 17): A potential AFC Championship preview, with two of the best quarterbacks in the league, Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow, facing off.
• Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers (Week 5): A rematch of last year’s NFC Divisional Playoff, this game will be a must-watch as two powerhouse teams battle for supremacy.
• Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins (Week 4): An AFC East showdown that could have major playoff implications. Both teams have high-powered offenses and strong defenses.
• Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys (Week 14): This rivalry is always intense, and it could decide the NFC East title. Expect fireworks when these two teams meet late in the season.
• Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers (Week 12): With the Packers entering a new era post-Aaron Rodgers, this game could mark a shift in the NFC North power structure.

What to Expect from the Detroit Lions in 2024

The Detroit Lions have been a franchise on the rise, and many are expecting big things from them in 2024. With a core built around Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and a strong offensive line, the Lions could challenge for the NFC North title. Week 1’s matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs will be an early test of whether they can compete with the NFL’s elite teams.

The Lions’ defense, led by Aidan Hutchinson, will be tasked with slowing down one of the best offenses in football. If the Lions can pull off a win in Week 1, it could set the tone for a successful season.

The NFL 2024 season is shaping up to be one for the ages. With exciting matchups, standout players, and thrilling storylines, Week 1 is just the beginning of what promises to be a season filled with drama and excitement. As you follow the NFL scores, NFL games, and NFL schedule, make sure to stay up-to-date with all the latest happenings from around the league.