The 2025 NFL season kicks off on Thursday, September 4, bringing immediate matchups between division rivals, playoff contenders, and teams aiming to rebound from disappointing finishes. Week 1 is where bettors, analysts, and fans get their first look at how offseason moves, new coaching strategies, and rookie additions translate on the field. From Kansas City hosting the Chargers to Dallas squaring off with Philadelphia, these games set the tone for the months ahead.
With betting markets still adjusting and team identities far from locked in, the opening week presents a prime window for finding value before odds sharpen in later rounds. Most games are set for Sunday, September 7, with others spread across Thursday, Friday, and Monday night slots.
Week 1 is when early wagers meet live adjustments and strategy often beats hype. For anyone planning to bet on Week 1, understanding the matchups and market signals is where it all begins.
Eagles vs. Cowboys: Thursday, September 4
Philadelphia opens at home as a 6.5-point favorite against divisional foe Dallas, with a total of 46.5 and a moneyline of -295. The Cowboys, coming off a 7-10 campaign, sit at +240 to win outright.
This game sets the tone for the entire NFC East, and public interest will be sky-high. Player availability and lineup tweaks could shift odds right up until kickoff. Keeping up with the latest NFL news throughout the week is essential here, especially if injury reports or depth chart changes influence red zone strategy.
The Eagles finished 8-1 at home last year. If they control possession early, the spread may not be needed. First-half lines offer another route for more conservative wagers. Consider under 19.5 team points for the Cowboys or over 3.5 touchdowns for the Eagles if momentum tilts early.
Chargers vs. Chiefs: Friday, September 5
On Friday night, the Chargers host the Chiefs in a matchup that could tilt the AFC West early. FanDuel Sportsbook lists the odds for Kansas City as a 3-point favorite, and the total is 45.5, with the Chiefs’ moneyline at -164 and the Chargers’ at +136.
The spread suggests respect for the Chargers’ pass rush and home crowd. Still, the total feels low considering both teams averaged over 23 points per game in 2024. Over 23.5 team points for the Chiefs may be more attractive than laying the spread.
If Los Angeles falls behind, late-game passing volume boosts the value of alternate over totals, especially live around the third quarter.
Steelers vs. Jets: Sunday, September 7
Pittsburgh, playing at home, is a 3-point favorite against the Jets, with a tight total of 37.5, the lowest on the board. The Steelers are -148 on the moneyline, while the Jets are +126.
This matchup screams defense. Bettors should look at under 17.5 team points for the Jets and consider teaser legs that push the total above 43.5. Scoring is expected to be scarce, and even over 2.5 total touchdowns may not be a lock.
If either defense forces a turnover in plus territory, a special teams touchdown could shift both the outcome and the live total quickly.
Packers vs. Lions: Sunday, September 7
The Packers open as 1.5-point underdogs at home vs the Lions, with a total of 48.5, the second-highest total of the week. Green Bay’s moneyline is +100, while Detroit’s sits at -118.
Expect offense here. Both teams return explosive skill talent, and with projected totals of 24.5 for the Lions and 23.5 for the Packers, over bettors have multiple angles. If you want to fade the public, consider a same-game parlay involving both teams to score over 20 and the Packers +1.5.
Weather rarely affects early games at Lambeau, so totals bettors likely will not need to hedge against outdoor variance.
Browns vs. Bengals: Sunday, September 7
Cleveland is a home underdog at +205, hosting the Bengals, who are -250 favorites. Cincinnati is laying 5.5 points, and the total is 45.5.
This is a classic Week 1 litmus test for a Bengals team that disappointed last season. The Browns, though shaky on offense, remain opportunistic on defense. The under 45.5 holds value if you’re expecting rust.
Consider under 20.5 team points for the Browns or alternate Bengals spreads if you’re confident in a blowout. The play may be targeting Joe Burrow for a passing yards prop, especially if you expect Cleveland to load the box and force throws.
Betting Angles To Watch This Weekend
Week 1 lines offer rare opportunities before the market fully adjusts to offseason changes and new systems. With spreads still soft and totals not fully sharpened, the first week is a playground for bettors who can identify early mismatches or stale numbers.
- Divisional unders often deliver value due to familiarity between teams,
- Low totals like Steelers vs. Jets can be exploited through team total props and first-half unders,
- Live line swings are more extreme in Week 1 as sportsbooks adjust in real time,
- Road favorites like Kansas City and Detroit are risky in early-season games,
- Player props tied to usage trends can offer soft lines before depth charts stabilize.
Every Line in Week 1 Shapes Expectations
Opening week isn’t about chasing upsets or trying to crown playoff favorites. It’s about identifying mispriced totals, cautious coaching scripts, and how matchups influence tempo.
With moneylines, spreads, and totals all still based on projections, Week 1 remains one of the few weeks where edges exist across the board. This is the moment where the market is still guessing. Bettors who use real context, matchup data, and timing often come out ahead.
*Content reflects information available as of 26/08/2025; subject to change.
