NFL Week 1 Highlights: Scores, Upsets, and Player Performances

By Matt Speakman,
Betting Expert at online-gambling.com

Matt Speakman Betting Expert at online-gambling.com

A die-hard fan of the Patriots, Matt Speakman is an expert on everything related to sports betting and DFS sites. Over the years, he has proven a valuable asset for our team at online-gambling.com. You can find Speakman's professional tips and tricks in any of his many articles on the website.

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Last updated: September 10, 2024

The 2024 NFL season kicked off with some exciting matchups, led by the Detroit Lions’ thrilling 26-20 overtime victory against the Los Angeles Rams. Week 1 showcased how unpredictable the season might be, from unexpected results to dominant victories.

Key Games and Results

Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season took place from September 6th to 10th. It aired across major networks like CBS, FOX, and ESPN, with live streaming available on NFL+ and other platforms. As the season kicked off, odds and predictions varied, but several matchups delivered surprising outcomes. Below is a table summarizing the most notable results from these games.

The season opener offered plenty of excitement, from overtime thrillers to defensive showdowns. For example, the Seattle Seahawks edged the Denver Broncos 26-20 in a tightly contested game. Meanwhile, one of the most unexpected results was the New England Patriots’ 16-10 upset over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Standout Performances

• Brock Purdy – Purdy shined in the 49ers’ 32-19 victory over the Jets, showcasing his accuracy and poise. He threw for over 230 yards and managed the game well, leading San Francisco’s offense to a commanding win​.
• Anthony Richardson – Despite the Colts’ 29-27 loss to the Texans, Richardson stood out with his dual-threat ability. He passed for 212 yards and accounted for three total touchdowns, proving his potential as a versatile playmaker​.
• Joe Mixon – Mixon had a dominant performance for the Texans, rushing for 159 yards and a crucial touchdown. His efforts were vital in helping Houston secure a narrow victory over the Colts​.

Surprises and Upsets

Week 1 wasn’t without surprises. The New England Patriots pulled off a 16-10 upset over the Cincinnati Bengals, limiting Joe Burrow and the Bengals’ offense to just 10 points. Burrow’s struggles were critical to the loss, managing only 164 passing yards. The Miami Dolphins also delivered a shock, coming back from a 17-point deficit to defeat the Jacksonville Jaguars 20-17​.

Rookies and New Faces to Watch

Several rookies made their mark in Week 1. Anthony Richardson shined despite the Colts’ loss, throwing for over 200 yards and rushing for a touchdown. His performance was one of the most promising displays of the weekend, highlighting his potential as a future star​.

Takeaways and Looking Ahead

Week 1 was full of surprises and standout performances, setting the stage for what could be an exciting NFL season. The 49ers and Lions positioned themselves as early contenders, while the Bengals and Rams need to regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks. Week 2 offers several intriguing matchups, including the Chiefs vs. Bengals and 49ers vs. Seahawks, which will be vital in shaping the early playoff picture​.