The NFL schedule release is one of the most anticipated events of the offseason, giving fans a first look at the matchups that will define the 2024 season. From high-stakes divisional rivalries to explosive interconference showdowns, this year’s slate of games promises plenty of drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
In this in-depth breakdown, we’ll highlight the 10 must-watch games of the 2024 NFL season, analyze why they matter, and provide key storylines to follow. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, these are the matchups you won’t want to miss.
1. Kansas City Chiefs vs. Baltimore Ravens (Week 1 – Thursday Night Football)
Why It’s Must-See: A rematch of the 2023 AFC Championship Game, this season opener features Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson in a potential playoff preview. Both teams are Super Bowl contenders, and with the Ravens looking for revenge after last year’s heartbreak, expect fireworks.
Key Storylines:
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Can Lamar Jackson outduel Mahomes in a marquee QB showdown?
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How will the Ravens’ revamped defense handle Travis Kelce and the Chiefs’ offense?
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Will rookie WR Xavier Worthy (Chiefs) make an immediate impact?
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2. San Francisco 49ers vs. Dallas Cowboys (Week 5 – Sunday Night Football)
Why It’s Must-See: Two of the NFL’s most storied franchises clash in a potential NFC Championship preview. The 49ers have dominated recent matchups, but Dak Prescott and the Cowboys are hungry for redemption.
Key Storylines:
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Will Brock Purdy continue his rise as an elite QB?
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Can Micah Parsons disrupt San Francisco’s explosive offense?
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A battle of two top-tier defenses—who blinks first?
3. Cincinnati Bengals vs. Cleveland Browns (Week 8 – Battle of Ohio)
Why It’s Must-See: The AFC North is the NFL’s toughest division, and this rivalry game could have major playoff implications. Joe Burrow vs. Deshaun Watson (if healthy) adds another layer of intrigue NFL schedule.
Key Storylines:
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Is this the year the Browns finally overtake the Bengals?
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How will Myles Garrett fare against Orlando Brown Jr.?
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Will Ja’Marr Chase and Amari Cooper put on a show?
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4. Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills (Week 11 – AFC East Showdown)
Why It’s Must-See: The AFC East crown could be on the line in this late-season duel. Josh Allen and Tua Tagovailoa have had epic battles, and Miami’s speed vs. Buffalo’s physicality makes this a must-watch.
Key Storylines:
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Can the Dolphins’ offense keep up with Buffalo’s defense?
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Will Von Miller return to form and disrupt Miami’s passing game?
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A potential playoff tiebreaker scenario.
5. Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Jets (Week 12 – Black Friday Game)
Why It’s Must-See: Aaron Rodgers’ return to prime time against a stacked Eagles team. This could be a Super Bowl preview if both teams stay healthy.
Key Storylines:
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How will Jalen Hurts handle the Jets’ elite secondary?
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Will Rodgers prove he’s still a top-tier QB?
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The Eagles’ pass rush vs. the Jets’ O-line—who wins?
6. Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers (Week 14 – NFC North Decider?)
Why It’s Must-See: The Lions are now the team to beat in the NFC North, but Jordan Love and the Packers are rising fast. This could decide the division.
Key Storylines:
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Can Love outduel Jared Goff in a shootout?
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Will Aidan Hutchinson dominate the Packers’ O-line?
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A potential playoff atmosphere in December.
7. Los Angeles Chargers vs. Las Vegas Raiders (Week 15 – Thursday Night Football)
Why It’s Must-See: Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers face Antonio Pierce’s Raiders in a physical AFC West battle. Justin Herbert vs. Gardner Minshew (or a rookie?) adds intrigue.
Key Storylines:
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How will Harbaugh’s coaching style impact the Chargers?
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Can Maxx Crosby wreak havoc on Herbert?
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A must-win for both teams’ playoff hopes.
8. Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings (Week 16 – Rookie QB Showdown?)
Why It’s Must-See: Caleb Williams’ first NFL season could hit a critical point against the Vikings, who may also have a new QB (J.J. McCarthy?).
Key Storylines:
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Can Williams outplay the Vikings’ defense?
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Justin Jefferson vs. Bears’ secondary—who wins?
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A potential turning point for both franchises.
9. Houston Texans vs. Indianapolis Colts (Week 17 – AFC South Title Fight?)
Why It’s Must-See: C.J. Stroud vs. Anthony Richardson in a young QB duel with playoff stakes NFL schedule.
Key Storylines:
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Can Richardson stay healthy and challenge Stroud?
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Will DeMeco Ryans’ defense contain the Colts’ offense?
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A potential win-and-in scenario.
10. New York Giants vs. New England Patriots (Week 18 – Draft Implications?)
Why It’s Must-See: If both teams struggle, this could be a “tank bowl” for a top draft pick. If one surprises, it could be a wild-card decider.
Key Storylines:
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Drake Maye vs. Daniel Jones (or a rookie)?
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Which coach is on the hot seat?
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A fitting end to the regular season.
Read More: NFL International Games 2024: Dates, Matchups, and How to Watch
Final Thoughts: Which Game Are You Most Excited For?
The 2024 NFL schedule is packed with must-watch matchups, from revenge games to playoff previews. Whether it’s Mahomes vs. Jackson, Rodgers’ comeback, or rookie QB battles, this season promises drama from Week 1 to Week 18.
For the latest NFL news, analysis, and updates, visit NFL Newsz.
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