Week 1 NFL roundup: Bears dominate Panthers, Bengals defense shines, Lions win in overtime
Sunday's opening games featured a high-scoring Bears win, a strong defensive showing by Cincinnati, and a dramatic overtime victory for Detroit.
The Chicago Bears posted a 59-37 victory over the Carolina Panthers, marking the highest-scoring Week 1 game in league history with 96 combined points. quarterback Caleb Williams became the first Bears player to record 200 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, 50 rushing yards and two rushing scores in a single game, while running backs D'Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai each surpassed 100 rushing yards.
The Panthers struggled defensively despite offseason additions, committing multiple turnovers that contributed to the loss. A muffed punt and a fumble were among the errors that swung momentum in Chicago’s favor.
Cincinnati’s revamped defense forced four turnovers against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including a 27-yard fumble return for a touchdown. The Bengals also benefited from an improved offensive approach, with quarterback Joe Burrow effectively utilizing tight end Mike Gesicki and wide receiver Tee Higgins.
In Detroit, the Lions overcame a 21-0 deficit to defeat the New Orleans Saints 31-29 in overtime. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs carried the ball 29 times for 156 yards and two touchdowns, while quarterback Tyler Shough rallied the Saints with 410 passing yards and three touchdowns after a shaky start.
Buffalo edged Houston 34-33 after a 96-yard, seven-play drive capped by a Josh Allen touchdown pass. The Bills’ defense sealed the win with a sack and a forced fumble in the final minutes.
Baltimore’s offense exploded for 31 first-half points against the Indianapolis Colts, but injuries to key receivers limited scoring after halftime. The Ravens still secured a 41-23 victory, highlighted by a sack-and-interception return touchdown from Josiah Trotter.
Jacksonville continued its strong start, beating the Cleveland Browns 24-0 as quarterback Trevor Lawrence posted a 126.7 passer rating and the defense recorded five sacks.
The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Atlanta Falcons 20-17, with defensive end T.J. Watt returning an interception for a touchdown and recording two sacks.
New York Jets opened the season with a 20-3 win over the Tennessee Titans, posting a dominant time-of-possession performance and limiting the Titans to 112 yards through three quarters.