Week 1 NFL results highlight strong Bengals defense, high-scoring Bears and Packers' second-half collapse
The opening week of the NFL season saw the Bengals' defense impress, the Bears post a record-setting offensive output, and the Packers surrender a sizable second-half lead, among other notable performances.
The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 33-27, limiting the opponent to 282 yards and forcing four turnovers, which analysts said could position the team as a top-five Super Bowl contender if the defense remains strong and quarterback Joe Burrow stays healthy.
Detroit edged New Orleans 31-30 after surrendering a 21-0 halftime lead; the Lions' defense recorded five sacks while the Saints rallied on the strength of quarterback Tyler Shough and receiver Chris Olave.
The New York Jets beat the Tennessee Titans 23-10, outgaining them 367-195 and holding the Titans to just 112 yards through three quarters, suggesting a challenging season ahead for Tennessee.
Baltimore routed Indianapolis 41-23, with running back Derrick Henry rushing for 144 yards and three touchdowns, moving him into third place on the NFL’s all-time rushing-touchdown list.
Pittsburgh won a low-scoring contest against Atlanta 20-13, with T.J. Watt returning an interception for a touchdown; both offenses struggled to generate more than 264 yards.
Chicago posted a 59-37 victory over Carolina, driven by quarterback Caleb Williams' four touchdowns and a combined 224 rushing yards from D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, marking the highest-scoring season opener in league history.
Jacksonville defeated Cleveland 34-10; quarterback Deshaun Watson was intercepted early and struggled throughout the game, prompting criticism of his starting role.
Buffalo overcame Houston 36-31, rallying from a fourth-quarter deficit with a 96-yard drive and a defensive strip-sack that sealed the win, positioning the Bills as a potential AFC Championship contender.
Las Vegas beat Miami 27-13 despite modest offensive yardage; the Dolphins managed only 259 total yards and struggled on third down.
Minnesota rallied to beat Green Bay 39-22 after the Packers relinquished a 22-10 lead, marking the Packers' third consecutive loss after holding a double-digit second-half advantage.
Philadelphia edged Washington 24-22, with the Commanders falling just short of a two-point conversion that would have forced overtime.
Arizona defeated Los Angeles 26-14, limiting the Chargers to 117 yards in the second half and forcing an interception, highlighting the Chargers' early-season struggles.
New York overcame Dallas 28-20, with head coach Joe Harbaugh's staff praised for preparation and physical play, suggesting the Giants could contend for the NFC East title.