The NFL has made headlines this week by unveiling its full 2025 regular season schedule. Although some details about the schedule trickled out prior to Wednesday's official announcement, the comprehensive release is a wealth of information for fans and analysts alike. With an 18-week schedule packed with matchups, it can be overwhelming to keep track of every game. To help you navigate this extensive schedule, we’ve identified key matchups that stand out each week, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action.
On Thursday, September 4th at 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC), the Dallas Cowboys will face the Philadelphia Eagles. This highly anticipated matchup marks the start of the season, and it's hard to ignore the excitement surrounding it. The Eagles will unveil their latest Super Bowl championship banner as they begin their title defense. The Cowboys, now under the leadership of first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer, will bring back quarterback Dak Prescott, who returns from a season-ending injury. With new talent like George Pickens joining the team, this game is filled with compelling storylines.
In a thrilling Super Bowl LIX rematch, the Eagles will travel to face the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, September 14th at 4:25 p.m. ET (Fox). Kansas City, aiming for revenge after their Super Bowl defeat, will look to reclaim their dominance against the Eagles. Historically, the Super Bowl winner has a solid record in the following season's rematches, making this game a must-watch for football fans.
On Sunday, September 21st at 1 p.m. ET (CBS), the Cincinnati Bengals will visit the Minnesota Vikings. This game is particularly intriguing as it features former LSU teammates Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase against their college counterpart, Justin Jefferson. With high offensive potential, this matchup could deliver an exciting game for fans.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 28th at 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS), when the Baltimore Ravens take on the Kansas City Chiefs. The duel between Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes is always a highlight, and this matchup is no exception. The last meeting ended dramatically, and fans will be eager to see if Jackson can turn the tide against Mahomes, who currently leads their head-to-head record.
On Thursday, October 2nd at 8:15 p.m. ET (Prime Video), the San Francisco 49ers will face off against the Los Angeles Rams in an NFC West rivalry. The strategic battle between coaches Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan promises to be thrilling. Both teams are expected to be strong contenders in the NFC, making this an important early-season clash.
Don’t miss the Monday Night Football showdown on October 13th at 8:15 p.m. ET (ABC) as the Chicago Bears visit the Washington Commanders. This matchup is significant, especially considering the impact their previous encounter had on both teams' seasons. With the top two picks from the 2024 NFL Draft—Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels—this game showcases the potential of both young quarterbacks.
On Monday, October 20th at 7 p.m. ET (ESPN, ABC), the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take on the Detroit Lions. While Week 7 may lack headline matchups, this game could be pivotal as both teams aim for playoff positioning. The Lions, who were the No. 1 seed in the NFC last season, will look to reaffirm their status against a talented Buccaneers squad.
As the season progresses, the Minnesota Vikings will meet the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday, October 23rd at 8:15 p.m. ET (Prime Video). This matchup is exciting, particularly if quarterback J.J. McCarthy begins the season strong. The strategic elements of this game will be fascinating, especially with Jim Harbaugh now coaching against his former pupil.
On Sunday, November 2nd at 4:25 p.m. ET (CBS), the Kansas City Chiefs will take on the Buffalo Bills in a highly anticipated matchup. Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen, two of the league's top quarterbacks, will go head-to-head for the 10th time. With Allen having a strong regular-season record against Mahomes, this game promises to be thrilling.
As we reach the midpoint of the season, the Detroit Lions will face the Washington Commanders on Sunday, November 9th at 4:25 p.m. ET (Fox). This matchup is crucial for both teams, especially after their previous playoff encounter. Expectations will be high for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning.
On Sunday, November 16th at 8:20 p.m. ET (NBC), the Detroit Lions will visit the Philadelphia Eagles in what could be a pivotal NFC showdown. This game may very well determine playoff seeding as both teams are expected to contend for the top spot in the conference.
Week 12 features an exciting NFC North showdown as the Minnesota Vikings take on the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, November 23rd at 1 p.m. ET (Fox). With both teams likely in playoff contention, this game could have significant implications for the division race.
Thanksgiving won't be complete without the Kansas City Chiefs facing the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, November 27th at 4:30 p.m. ET (CBS). This matchup is a treat for fans, as both teams boast high-powered offenses. It’s also a homecoming for Mahomes, adding extra significance to the game.
On Sunday, December 7th at 4:25 p.m. ET (Fox), the Cincinnati Bengals will visit the Buffalo Bills. This matchup features two elite quarterbacks, Joe Burrow and Josh Allen. The stakes are high as the Bengals look to continue their strong performance from the previous season.
On Sunday, December 14th at 4:25 p.m. ET (Fox), the Detroit Lions will travel to face the Los Angeles Rams. As the playoff picture becomes clearer, this game could serve as a preview of the NFC Championship. Both teams will be fighting for crucial playoff positioning.
As we approach the end of the season, the Philadelphia Eagles will visit the Washington Commanders on Saturday, December 20th (TBD, Fox). This NFC East battle is significant as both teams vie for dominance in the division.
On Christmas Day, December 25th at 4:30 p.m. ET (Netflix), the Detroit Lions will face the Minnesota Vikings. This late-season clash could be crucial for playoff implications, especially if both teams are in contention for the division title.
In the final week of the season, the Los Angeles Chargers will face the Denver Broncos (TBD). This matchup could be a critical win-and-in scenario for both teams, as they look to secure playoff spots amidst fierce competition in the AFC West.
With the 2025 NFL schedule now revealed, fans should mark their calendars for these key matchups. Each game presents an opportunity for thrilling football and potential playoff implications, making this season one to watch.
