WEEK 1 Recap

NFL Week 1 Recap - 2024-2025 Season

The NFL kicked off its 2024-2025 season with a thrilling Week 1 that didn't disappoint, showcasing nail-biting finishes, upsets, and standout performances from rookies and veterans alike.

Game of the Week: Chiefs vs. Bills

In a rematch of last year’s AFC Championship, the Kansas City Chiefs hosted the Buffalo Bills in an electric showdown. Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen delivered an instant classic, with both quarterbacks trading scores in the fourth quarter. Mahomes threw for 375 yards and 3 touchdowns, but Allen’s 4-yard touchdown run in the final minute secured a dramatic 38-35 victory for Buffalo. Allen finished with 350 passing yards, 4 total TDs (3 passing, 1 rushing), while Stefon Diggs caught 10 passes for 145 yards and a score. This game sets the stage for what promises to be another fierce AFC rivalry this season.

Upset of the Week: Jaguars Shock the Ravens

The Jacksonville Jaguars pulled off a stunning 27-24 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Trevor Lawrence looked sharp, throwing for 320 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a 50-yard bomb to Christian Kirk in the fourth quarter. Lamar Jackson struggled under pressure, throwing two interceptions, including a critical one in the final two minutes. Rookie linebacker Trent Simpson’s pick sealed the game for Jacksonville, who looks poised to make noise in the AFC South this season.

Rookie Debuts: Caleb Williams Shines in Debut for Cardinals

Top overall pick Caleb Williams lived up to the hype in his NFL debut for the Arizona Cardinals. Facing the New York Giants, Williams threw for 280 yards and 3 touchdowns, leading the Cardinals to a 31-24 victory. His poise under pressure and ability to extend plays drew comparisons to Patrick Mahomes. With DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown as his top weapons, Williams could turn Arizona into a surprise contender in the NFC West.

Comeback Story: Tua Tagovailoa Returns Strong

After a tumultuous offseason filled with health concerns, Tua Tagovailoa returned in style, leading the Miami Dolphins to a 28-21 victory over the New England Patriots. Tua threw for 310 yards and 2 touchdowns, connecting with Tyreek Hill for an 80-yard strike in the second quarter. His accuracy and leadership helped Miami control the pace of the game. The Patriots' defense couldn't keep up with the speed of Miami's offense, and Mac Jones’ late-game interception sealed the Dolphins' win.

Standout Performance: Justin Jefferson Dominates

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson proved why he's one of the best in the league, torching the Chicago Bears for 180 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns in the Vikings' 34-17 win. Jefferson was unguardable, creating separation with ease and hauling in a spectacular one-handed catch that will surely be one of the highlights of the season. Kirk Cousins benefited from Jefferson’s dominant performance, throwing for 340 yards and 3 TDs.

Defensive Spotlight: Cowboys' Defense Stifles Eagles

The Dallas Cowboys' defense was dominant in their 20-13 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Led by Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs, the Cowboys' defense racked up 6 sacks and forced 3 turnovers, stifling Jalen Hurts and the Eagles' high-powered offense. Parsons was a nightmare off the edge, recording 2 sacks and multiple pressures, while Diggs grabbed a key interception that halted a potential scoring drive late in the fourth quarter.

Other Notable Results:

San Francisco 49ers 27, Los Angeles Rams 17: Brock Purdy was efficient, while Christian McCaffrey rushed for 125 yards and a score to help the 49ers control their divisional matchup.
Cincinnati Bengals 24, Cleveland Browns 20: Joe Burrow led a late comeback, hitting Ja'Marr Chase for the game-winning touchdown with 30 seconds remaining.
Green Bay Packers 31, Chicago Bears 13: Jordan Love impressed in his first start as the Packers' franchise quarterback, throwing for 250 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Key Takeaways:

Quarterbacks Steal the Show: From Mahomes vs. Allen to Tua’s comeback, Week 1 was filled with high-level QB play that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Rookies Impress: Caleb Williams, in particular, showed that he might be the real deal. Other rookies like running back Jahmyr Gibbs for the Lions also turned heads with their play.
Defenses Show Up: The Cowboys' and Jaguars' defenses made big statements, showing that defense still wins games in the NFL.

With Week 1 in the books, the 2024-2025 NFL season is off to a fast start, and if this first slate of games is any indication, we’re in for a thrilling ride this year.