The Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers delivered a record-breaking spectacle in their season opener, combining for an astonishing 96 points. The Bears triumphed 59-37, setting a new benchmark for the highest-scoring season opener in NFL history.
This prolific offensive display saw Chicago and Carolina score eight more points than the previous record of 88, established in Tampa Bay's 48-40 victory over New Orleans in 2018. The Bears' 59 points also marked a new franchise record for an opener, surpassing a record that had stood since 1948.
Caleb Williams led the charge for Chicago, throwing for 269 yards and two touchdowns, alongside rushing for 65 yards and two more scores. D'Andre Swift, who recently signed a $33.75m contract extension, contributed significantly with 124 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while Kyle Monangai added 100 rushing yards, including a 61-yard touchdown burst.
In other Week 1 action, the Buffalo Bills secured a thrilling 36-31 win over the Houston Texans, thanks to a late touchdown pass from Josh Allen. The Detroit Lions edged out the New Orleans Saints 31-30 in overtime, after the Saints' two-point conversion attempt failed. The Cincinnati Bengals' overhauled defense led them to a 33-27 victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, converting three first-half fumbles into touchdowns. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Ravens defeated the Indianapolis Colts 41-23, with Derrick Henry running for three touchdowns, moving him into third on the NFL's career list.