Top 5 Most Highly Anticipated NFL Games of the 2025/26 Season
The NFL’s 106th season has been a rollercoaster of thrilling matchups, star-studded performances, and unforgettable moments. As the regular season winds down and the playoffs approach, fans are already marking their calendars for the most anticipated games of the year. From historic rivalries to international showcases, here are the top five must-watch NFL games of the 2025/26 season.
The Season So Far
The 2025 NFL season kicked off on September 4, 2025, with the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles defeating the Dallas Cowboys in a thrilling opener. The league has seen major player movements, including high-profile trades like Sauce Gardner being dealt from the New York Jets to the Indianapolis Colts, and Joe Flacco joining the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for draft picks.
As the season progresses, the playoff picture is shaping up with intense divisional battles and wildcard races. The Super Bowl LX is scheduled for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, promising an epic conclusion to another unforgettable year.
Now, let’s dive into the top five most anticipated games of the 2025/26 season.
Top 5 Upcoming Games
1. Thanksgiving Night Showdown: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens (November 27, 2025)
Why It’s Must-Watch:
Thanksgiving Day is synonymous with NFL football, and this year’s prime-time AFC North clash between the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens is shaping up to be an instant classic. Featuring two of the league’s most explosive quarterbacks—Joe Burrow (Bengals) and Lamar Jackson (Ravens)—this game promises high-octane offense and hard-hitting defense.
The Bengals, coming off a deep playoff run, are hungry for revenge after narrowly missing the Super Bowl last season. Meanwhile, the Ravens, led by Jackson’s dual-threat ability, are looking to solidify their position as AFC contenders. With both teams fighting for divisional supremacy, this Thanksgiving nightcap could be a playoff preview.
Key Matchup: Joe Burrow vs. Lamar Jackson—a battle of MVP-caliber quarterbacks.
2. International Series: Indianapolis Colts vs. Atlanta Falcons in Berlin (December 7, 2025)
Why It’s Must-Watch:
The NFL’s global expansion continues with a historic game in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium, marking the first regular-season contest in Germany’s capital. The Indianapolis Colts, potentially led by Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones at quarterback, will face off against the Atlanta Falcons, powered by Michael Penix Jr. under center.
This game isn’t just about football—it’s a cultural event. Thousands of German fans, along with traveling supporters from the U.S., will create an electric atmosphere. The NFL hopes to replicate the success of past international games in London, Mexico City, and Munich, further solidifying its global reach.
Key Storyline: Can the Colts or Falcons use this stage to launch a late-season playoff push?
3. Christmas Day Classic: Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Commanders (December 25, 2025)
Why It’s Must-Watch:
Christmas Day NFL games are a tradition, and this year’s NFC East rivalry between the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders is a perfect holiday treat. The Cowboys, always a media darling, are led by a high-powered offense, while the Commanders, bolstered by recent trades, are aiming to dethrone their divisional foes.
This game carries extra weight as both teams vie for playoff positioning. Expect fireworks, as these franchises have a long history of intense battles. Plus, with the NFL’s biggest stars on display, this could be a prime-time showcase for MVP candidates.
Key Matchup: Cowboys’ offense vs. Commanders’ revamped defense.
4. Sunday Night Football: Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers (November 9, 2025)
Why It’s Must-Watch:
The NFC West rivalry between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers is always heated, but this Sunday Night Football clash takes it to another level. Both teams are playoff contenders, and with star quarterbacks Matthew Stafford (Rams) and Brock Purdy (49ers) leading the way, this game could decide divisional supremacy.
The Rams, fresh off a Super Bowl run, are looking to prove they’re still elite, while the 49ers, with a young, dynamic roster, are eager to dethrone their rivals. This matchup features two of the league’s most explosive offenses, making it a must-watch for fantasy football fans and neutral observers alike.
Key Storyline: Can the 49ers’ defense slow down Stafford’s deep-throwing attack?
5. Playoff Preview: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Kansas City Chiefs (Week TBD, 2025/26)
Why It’s Must-Watch:
While the exact date is yet to be determined, a potential playoff rematch between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs would be one of the most anticipated games of the season. These two franchises have met in recent postseasons, with the Eagles emerging victorious in their last encounter.
The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are perennial Super Bowl contenders, while the Eagles, with a stingy defense and a balanced offense, are a force to be reckoned with. If these teams meet again in the playoffs, it could be a Super Bowl preview—or even a Super Bowl rematch if both reach the big game.
Key Matchup: Mahomes vs. Eagles’ defense—can Philadelphia’s pass rush disrupt Kansas City’s high-flying offense?
Outro: Don’t Miss Out—Secure Your Tickets Now!
The 2025/26 NFL season has delivered nonstop excitement, and these top five games are just a taste of what’s to come. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there’s no better way to experience the action than live in the stadium.
Ready to witness history?
