When Is The First NFL Game Of 2024? Everything You Need to Know

The first NFL game of 2024 is on Thursday, September 5th, where the Kansas City Chiefs host the Baltimore Ravens. If you’re looking for details on the full schedule, game times, and where to watch, you’ve come to the right place. At polarservicecenter.net, we provide information about important dates in sports and relevant support and warranty services for your Polar devices, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action. We’re here to help you stay informed and equipped with the latest sports updates. The 2024 NFL season is packed with exciting matchups, broadcasting details, and international games, all designed to keep fans engaged and entertained.

1. What Is The NFL 2024 Season Schedule?

The NFL 2024 season schedule is an 18-week, 272-game program that kicks off on Thursday, September 5, in Kansas City, and concludes with 16 division games in Week 18, two on Saturday, January 4, and 14 on Sunday, January 5. This schedule includes each team playing 17 regular-season games and three preseason games for the fourth consecutive year, with the NFC as the home conference for the 17th game in 2024.

1.1 What are some key features of the NFL 2024 season schedule?

Key features of the NFL 2024 season schedule include:

  • 18-Week, 272-Game Regular Season: Providing an extended period of exciting football action.
  • Opening Game: Kicks off on Thursday, September 5, in Kansas City.
  • Week 18 Division Games: Concludes with 16 division games, intensifying the competition as teams vie for playoff spots.
  • 17 Regular-Season Games Per Team: Maintaining the format of the past four years to deliver more thrilling matchups.
  • Three Preseason Games: Allowing teams to fine-tune their strategies and assess player performance.
  • Interconference 17th Game: Teams from opposing conferences face off based on their previous season’s standings, adding a unique competitive edge.
  • NFC Home Conference: The NFC hosts the 17th game, alternating the home advantage between conferences each year.

1.2 What is the significance of the 17th game in the NFL schedule?

The 17th game in the NFL schedule is significant because it features teams from opposing conferences that finished in the same standing within their respective divisions during the previous season, adding an extra interconference matchup. This ensures that each team plays a more balanced schedule and faces opponents with similar performance levels, which enhances competition and fan engagement. According to NFL regulations, this format began in 2022 to provide a fairer and more exciting regular season.

1.3 How many international games are scheduled for the 2024 NFL season?

There are five international regular-season games scheduled for the 2024 NFL season, including one in Brazil, three in the UK, and one in Germany. These games are part of the NFL’s ongoing effort to expand its global presence and engage with international fans, offering exciting matchups in different countries. The NFL’s commitment to international games underscores its strategy for global fan engagement and market expansion.

2. What Are The Key Matchups In Week 1 Of The 2024 NFL Season?

Key matchups in Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season include the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday, September 5, the Green Bay Packers meeting the Philadelphia Eagles in São Paulo, Brazil, on Friday, September 6, and the Los Angeles Rams visiting the Detroit Lions on Sunday Night Football. These games feature Super Bowl contenders and exciting rematches from the previous season.

2.1 Who plays in the NFL’s annual primetime Kickoff game?

The NFL’s annual primetime Kickoff game features the defending Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Baltimore Ravens at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on Thursday, September 5, at 8:20 p.m. ET, broadcast on NBC. This game is a rematch of last season’s AFC Championship Game, promising an exciting start to the NFL season. According to NFL.com, this kickoff game highlights the league’s top talent and sets the stage for the rest of the season.

2.2 What makes the Week 1 game between the Packers and Eagles in Brazil historic?

The Week 1 game between the Green Bay Packers and the Philadelphia Eagles in São Paulo, Brazil, on Friday, September 6, is historic because it is the first regular-season NFL game to be played in South America. It also marks the first time in over 50 years that the NFL has played a game on Friday of their opening weekend, since September 18, 1970, when the St. Louis Cardinals faced the Los Angeles Rams. This game highlights the NFL’s expansion into new international markets.

2.3 What other notable games are scheduled for Week 1?

Other notable games scheduled for Week 1 include:

  • Las Vegas Raiders at Los Angeles Chargers: Featuring the head coaching debuts of Antonio Pierce (Raiders) and Jim Harbaugh (Chargers).
  • Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks: With Sean Payton (Broncos) making his debut against Mike Macdonald, who is making his NFL head coaching debut with the Seahawks.
  • Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns: A matchup between two 2023 playoff teams.
  • Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Featuring new Commanders head coach Dan Quinn against the reigning NFC South Champion Buccaneers.
  • Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions: A Sunday Night Football rematch of last season’s NFC Wild Card round, where the Lions secured their first playoff victory since 1991.

3. What Are The Key Primetime Games And Broadcast Details For The 2024 NFL Season?

Key primetime games and broadcast details for the 2024 NFL season include Thursday Night Football airing exclusively on Prime Video, Sunday Night Football on NBC, and Monday Night Football on ESPN/ABC. NFL games will also be streamed on Netflix and NFL Network, offering fans numerous options to watch their favorite teams.

3.1 Where can I watch Thursday Night Football games in 2024?

Thursday Night Football games in 2024 will air exclusively on Prime Video, kicking off in Week 2 with a matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills on Thursday, September 12. Prime Video will broadcast 15 Thursday Night Football games between Weeks 2-17, excluding Thanksgiving night, and will exclusively stream the second-ever NFL Black Friday game when the Kansas City Chiefs host the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 13. Amazon’s exclusive coverage offers a unique viewing experience for fans.

3.2 How can I watch Monday Night Football games in 2024?

Monday Night Football games in 2024 will be televised on ESPN, with simulcasts on ABC in Weeks 1, 8, 14, and 17. In Weeks 3 and 4, there will be two Monday night games broadcast at 7:30 p.m. ET and 8:15 p.m. ET. Additionally, in Week 7, there will be two Monday night games: Baltimore at Tampa Bay on ESPN and the Los Angeles Chargers at Arizona on ESPN+. This comprehensive coverage ensures fans have multiple options to watch Monday Night Football.

3.3 What are the new streaming options for NFL games in 2024?

New streaming options for NFL games in 2024 include:

  • Netflix: Streaming two NFL games on Christmas, Wednesday, December 25, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens facing the Houston Texans. Netflix will also stream at least one holiday game in 2025 and 2026.
  • Prime Video: Exclusively airing Thursday Night Football games.
  • ESPN+: Streaming select Monday Night Football games.
  • NFL+: Offering live and local prime-time games on mobile devices.

These streaming options provide greater accessibility and convenience for fans to watch NFL games on various platforms.

4. What Are The International Games Scheduled For The 2024 NFL Season?

The international games scheduled for the 2024 NFL season include a game in Brazil, three games in London, and one game in Germany. These games are part of the NFL’s commitment to expanding its global presence and providing international fans with exciting NFL experiences.

4.1 Where and when will the NFL game in Brazil take place?

The NFL game in Brazil will take place in São Paulo on Friday, September 6, featuring the Green Bay Packers against the Philadelphia Eagles. This historic game will be played at Corinthians Arena and marks the first regular-season NFL game in South America, representing a significant milestone in the NFL’s international expansion efforts. The game will be broadcast on Peacock.

4.2 Which teams are playing in the NFL London Games in 2024?

The teams playing in the NFL London Games in 2024 are:

  • New York Jets vs. Minnesota Vikings: At Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in Week 5 on Sunday, October 6.
  • Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Chicago Bears: At Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in Week 6 on Sunday, October 13.
  • Jacksonville Jaguars vs. New England Patriots: At Wembley Stadium in Week 7 on Sunday, October 20.

The Jaguars are scheduled to play two regular-season games outside of the United States for the second consecutive season, showcasing the NFL’s commitment to international play.

4.3 Where will the NFL game in Germany be played in 2024?

The NFL game in Germany will be played in Munich at Allianz Arena – Home of FC Bayern Munich in Week 10 on Sunday, November 10, featuring the New York Giants against the Carolina Panthers. This marks the league’s second game in Munich and the fourth international regular-season game to be played in Germany, highlighting the growing popularity of NFL football in Europe. The game will be broadcast on NFL Network.

5. What Are The Thanksgiving Day Games Scheduled For 2024?

The Thanksgiving Day games for 2024 feature a tripleheader on Thursday, November 28, including the Chicago Bears at the Detroit Lions, the New York Giants at the Dallas Cowboys, and the Miami Dolphins at the Green Bay Packers. These games are a traditional part of the NFL season, providing exciting matchups for fans to enjoy during the holiday.

5.1 What time and channel will the Bears vs. Lions Thanksgiving game be on?

The Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions Thanksgiving game will be at 12:30 p.m. ET on CBS. This game kicks off the Thanksgiving Day tripleheader, offering an NFC North rivalry matchup for fans to enjoy during their holiday celebrations. The game promises an exciting start to the day’s festivities.

5.2 When and where will the Giants face the Cowboys on Thanksgiving?

The New York Giants will face the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving at 4:30 p.m. ET on FOX. This late afternoon game is a classic NFC East rivalry, adding to the tradition and excitement of Thanksgiving Day NFL games. The Cowboys, as a perennial Thanksgiving fixture, will host the Giants in what promises to be a highly anticipated contest.

5.3 Which teams will conclude the Thanksgiving Day games in primetime?

The Miami Dolphins will conclude the Thanksgiving Day games by traveling to Green Bay to face the Packers on NBC at 8:20 p.m. ET. This primetime game adds a festive end to the day’s football action, ensuring that fans have a thrilling conclusion to their Thanksgiving celebrations. The primetime slot guarantees a large audience for this interconference matchup.

6. How Does Flexible Scheduling Work In The NFL 2024 Season?

Flexible scheduling in the NFL 2024 season ensures that exciting and meaningful games are available for viewing by the largest number of fans, particularly in the final weeks of the season. This system allows the NFL to move games to different time slots, maximizing viewership and ensuring that the most competitive matchups are showcased in primetime.

6.1 When does flexible scheduling take effect during the NFL season?

Flexible scheduling can be implemented beginning in Week 5 and continues through Week 17 of the NFL season. This allows the league to adjust game times and broadcast networks to highlight the most compelling matchups as the playoff picture begins to take shape. The flexibility ensures that primetime slots feature the games with the highest stakes and fan interest.

6.2 How does flexible scheduling affect Week 18 of the NFL season?

For Week 18, the final weekend of the season, the scheduling of the Saturday, Sunday afternoon, and Sunday night games is not assigned until after the conclusion of Week 17. In Week 18, two games are played on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET and 8 p.m. ET), with the remainder to be played on Sunday afternoon (1 p.m. ET and 4:25 p.m. ET), and one matchup to be played on Sunday night (8:20 p.m. ET). Specific dates, start times, and networks for Week 18 matchups will be determined and announced following the conclusion of Week 17, providing maximum flexibility to showcase games with playoff implications. This approach enhances the excitement and viewership for the final week of the regular season.

6.3 What is the purpose of flexible scheduling in the NFL?

The purpose of flexible scheduling in the NFL is to ensure that the most exciting and meaningful games are available for viewing by the largest number of fans. By adjusting game times and broadcast networks, the NFL can maximize viewership and showcase the most competitive matchups, particularly as the playoff picture comes into focus. This system enhances the overall viewing experience and maintains fan engagement throughout the season.

7. What Are Some Notable Matchups Featuring Top Draft Picks From The 2024 NFL Draft?

Notable matchups featuring top draft picks from the 2024 NFL Draft include Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) vs. Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders) in Week 8, Williams vs. Drake Maye (New England Patriots) in Week 10, and Williams vs. Marvin Harrison (Arizona Cardinals) in Week 9. These games provide fans with a first look at the league’s newest stars and their potential impact on their respective teams.

7.1 Which game features a matchup between the top two picks of the 2024 NFL Draft?

The game featuring a matchup between the top two picks of the 2024 NFL Draft is in Week 8 when the Chicago Bears, led by Caleb Williams, visit the Washington Commanders, led by Jayden Daniels. If both players start, it would mark the sixth game in NFL history between rookie starting quarterbacks selected with the first and second overall picks in the NFL Draft. This highly anticipated game will be broadcast on CBS at 1 p.m. ET.

7.2 When will Caleb Williams face Drake Maye in the 2024 season?

Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears are slated to play against Drake Maye and the New England Patriots in Week 10. This game will be broadcast on FOX at 1 p.m. ET, providing fans with another opportunity to see two of the top quarterbacks from the 2024 NFL Draft face off against each other. The matchup is expected to draw significant attention from fans and analysts alike.

7.3 Which game features Caleb Williams against Marvin Harrison Jr.?

Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears will play against Marvin Harrison Jr. and the Arizona Cardinals in Week 9. This game is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on CBS. It offers a compelling matchup between the highly touted quarterback and one of the top wide receivers from the 2024 NFL Draft, showcasing young talent on both sides of the field.

8. How Will The NFL Commemorate Super Bowl Rematches And 2023 Playoff Games?

The NFL will commemorate Super Bowl rematches and 2023 playoff games by scheduling 14 games that are Super Bowl rematches and nine games that are rematches from the 2023 playoffs. These include Super Bowl LVIII (Kansas City at San Francisco in Week 7), both Championship Games (Baltimore at Kansas City in Week 1; Detroit at San Francisco in Week 17), and all four Divisional playoff games, providing fans with highly anticipated reunions.

8.1 Which games are rematches of the 2023 Championship Games?

The games that are rematches of the 2023 Championship Games include:

  • Baltimore Ravens at Kansas City Chiefs: In Week 1, a rematch of the AFC Championship Game.
  • Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers: In Week 17, a rematch of the NFC Championship Game.

These games bring back the excitement and intensity of last season’s championship contests, offering fans a chance to see these top teams battle it out once again.

8.2 What divisional playoff rematches are scheduled for the 2024 season?

The divisional playoff rematches scheduled for the 2024 season are:

  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions: In Week 2.
  • Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills: In Week 11.
  • San Francisco 49ers at Green Bay Packers: In Week 12.
  • Baltimore Ravens at Houston Texans: In Week 17.

These games rekindle the competitive spirit of last season’s playoff matchups, promising high-stakes and thrilling football.

8.3 When will the Super Bowl LVIII rematch take place?

The Super Bowl LVIII rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers will take place in Week 7. This highly anticipated game offers a chance for the 49ers to avenge their Super Bowl loss and for the Chiefs to reaffirm their dominance, making it a must-watch event for NFL fans. The game is scheduled to be broadcast on FOX.

9. What Is Super Wild Card Weekend?

Super Wild Card Weekend presented by Verizon for the 2024 season will feature six games, starting on Saturday, January 11. This weekend kicks off the NFL playoffs and showcases the top teams battling for a spot in the Divisional Playoffs.

9.1 When does Super Wild Card Weekend begin in 2025?

Super Wild Card Weekend for the 2024 season will begin on Saturday, January 11, 2025. This weekend marks the start of the NFL playoffs, with six games scheduled to showcase the top teams vying for a spot in the Divisional Playoffs. The games are presented by Verizon, adding to the excitement and anticipation of the postseason.

9.2 How many games are played during Super Wild Card Weekend?

Six games are played during Super Wild Card Weekend, featuring the 2 seed hosting the 7 seed, the 3 seed hosting the 6 seed, and the 4 seed hosting the 5 seed in both the AFC and NFC. These matchups set the stage for the rest of the NFL playoffs and provide fans with a thrilling start to the postseason. The format ensures competitive and exciting games right from the beginning of the playoffs.

9.3 How are teams seeded for Super Wild Card Weekend?

Teams are seeded for Super Wild Card Weekend as follows:

  • The 2 seed hosts the 7 seed.
  • The 3 seed hosts the 6 seed.
  • The 4 seed hosts the 5 seed.

This seeding system ensures that the higher-seeded teams have the advantage of playing at home, while the lower-seeded teams must travel and face tough competition on the road. The structure is designed to reward regular-season success and create compelling playoff matchups.

10. What Key Information Should Polar Users Know About The 2024 NFL Season?

Polar users should note that the 2024 NFL season begins on September 5th, featuring several key matchups and broadcast options. By staying updated with the NFL schedule, Polar users can optimize their training routines and performance tracking around game days. polarservicecenter.net offers resources for troubleshooting and maximizing the use of Polar devices, ensuring uninterrupted tracking during NFL season.

10.1 How can Polar users leverage their devices during the NFL season?

Polar users can leverage their devices during the NFL season by:

  • Tracking Activity Levels: Monitoring their physical activity and workout routines around game days.
  • Monitoring Heart Rate: Tracking heart rate during workouts to optimize training intensity.
  • Using GPS Features: Utilizing GPS to map running routes and track distance.
  • Analyzing Sleep Patterns: Monitoring sleep quality to ensure adequate rest for optimal performance.
  • Setting Goals: Using Polar Flow to set and track fitness goals related to game day preparation.

By integrating these features, Polar users can enhance their fitness routines and stay connected to their favorite NFL teams.

10.2 What resources does polarservicecenter.net offer for Polar device support during the NFL season?

polarservicecenter.net provides several resources for Polar device support during the NFL season, including:

  • Troubleshooting Guides: Step-by-step instructions for resolving common issues with Polar devices.
  • Warranty Information: Details on warranty coverage and how to make a claim.
  • Firmware Updates: Information and instructions on how to update firmware for optimal performance.
  • Accessory Information: Details on compatible accessories and replacement parts.
  • Contact Information: Direct access to customer support for personalized assistance.

These resources ensure that Polar users can keep their devices in top condition throughout the NFL season.

10.3 How can I contact polarservicecenter.net for Polar device support?

You can contact polarservicecenter.net for Polar device support through the following methods:

  • Address: 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
  • Phone: +1 (303) 492-7080
  • Website: polarservicecenter.net

Our team is ready to assist with any questions or issues you may have, ensuring you can fully enjoy the 2024 NFL season with your Polar device. Contact us today for expert support and assistance.

The 2024 NFL season promises to be an exciting one, filled with key matchups, international games, and new streaming options. Stay updated with the latest information and ensure your Polar devices are ready to track every moment.

FAQ

1. When does the first NFL game of 2024 take place?

The first NFL game of 2024 takes place on Thursday, September 5, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Baltimore Ravens. This game is a rematch of the AFC Championship Game, promising an exciting start to the season.

2. Where can I watch Thursday Night Football games in 2024?

Thursday Night Football games in 2024 will air exclusively on Prime Video. This provides a dedicated platform for fans to watch these primetime matchups each week.

3. Are there any NFL games being played internationally in 2024?

Yes, there are five international regular-season games scheduled for the 2024 NFL season, including one in Brazil, three in the UK, and one in Germany.

4. How can I watch Monday Night Football games in 2024?

Monday Night Football games in 2024 will be televised on ESPN, with simulcasts on ABC in select weeks. This ensures broad access to these primetime games.

5. Which teams are playing on Thanksgiving Day in 2024?

The Thanksgiving Day games in 2024 feature the Chicago Bears at the Detroit Lions, the New York Giants at the Dallas Cowboys, and the Miami Dolphins at the Green Bay Packers.

6. What is flexible scheduling and how does it affect the NFL season?

Flexible scheduling ensures that exciting and meaningful games are available for viewing by the largest number of fans. It allows the NFL to move games to different time slots, maximizing viewership and showcasing competitive matchups.

7. When does Super Wild Card Weekend take place in 2025?

Super Wild Card Weekend for the 2024 season will begin on Saturday, January 11, 2025. This marks the start of the NFL playoffs.

8. How can Polar users leverage their devices during the NFL season?

Polar users can track their activity levels, monitor heart rate, use GPS features, analyze sleep patterns, and set fitness goals related to game day preparation.

9. What resources does polarservicecenter.net offer for Polar device support?

polarservicecenter.net offers troubleshooting guides, warranty information, firmware updates, accessory information, and direct access to customer support.

10. How can I contact polarservicecenter.net for Polar device support?

You can contact polarservicecenter.net via address at 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States, phone at +1 (303) 492-7080, or visit our website at polarservicecenter.net.

Ready for the NFL season? Ensure your Polar device is in top condition. Visit polarservicecenter.net for troubleshooting, warranty info, and expert support. Contact us today and never miss a moment!

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