Sophia
The wait is almost over! Week 1 of the 2025 NFL season kicks off with a bang, promising thrilling matchups, intense rivalries, and countless opportunities for fans to engage with the action. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the world of sports wagering, understanding where to place your bets, which promotions to leverage, and the expert insights that can guide your decisions is key.
This year, the NFL schedule opens with a blockbuster Thursday night clash between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles, followed by a historic Friday game featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers in Brazil. The excitement continues through Sunday, culminating in a marquee Sunday Night Football showdown between the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens, and a Monday Night Football finale with the Minnesota Vikings facing the Chicago Bears.
For those eager to dive into the betting action, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to Week 1, including top sportsbook promotions, expert picks, and crucial responsible gaming advice.
Key Week 1 Matchups and Early Lines
- Thursday, September 4: Eagles (-7.5) vs. Cowboys
- Friday, September 5: Chiefs vs. Chargers (+3) (from Brazil)
- Sunday Night Football: Bills (-1.5) vs. Ravens (Over/Under 51.5)
- Monday Night Football: Vikings vs. Bears
Beyond these marquee games, other intriguing matchups include Buccaneers vs. Falcons and 49ers vs. Seahawks, both featuring teams with legitimate postseason aspirations. These games offer compelling narratives and significant betting value.
Top Sportsbook Promotions for New Users
As the NFL season kicks off, sportsbooks are rolling out enticing promotions for new users. These offers can significantly boost your initial bankroll, providing bonus bets or profit boosts. Here’s a breakdown of the best available:
| Brand | Promo | CBS Promo Code |
|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Bet $5, get $300 in bonus bets instantly + over $200 off NFL Sunday Ticket | Just click here |
| BetMGM | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first bet loses | CBSSPORTS |
| bet365 | Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets win or lose | CBSBET365 |
| Caesars | Bet $1, double your winnings your next 20 bets | CBS20X |
| FanDuel | Bet $5, get $300 in bonus bets if your bet wins | Just click here |
| Fanatics | Get $100 No Sweat Bet in FanCash on every Game Day | Just click here |
DraftKings, bet365, and FanDuel offer bonus bets regardless of your initial wager’s outcome (though FanDuel’s bonus is contingent on a win). DraftKings stands out with an additional discount on NFL Sunday Ticket, a fantastic perk for any football fan. bet365 provides flexibility with either $200 in bonus bets or a $1,000 first bet safety net.
BetMGM and Fanatics Sportsbook offer “second-chance” bonus bets, meaning you receive a bonus only if your first bet loses. Fanatics adds a unique twist with “No Sweat Bets in FanCash” on game days, though New York users have a slightly lower limit. Caesars Sportsbook takes a different approach, offering profit boosts on your next 20 bets, a great option for those looking to maximize winning payouts.
Expert NFL Week 1 Betting Picks and Analysis
To give you an edge, we turn to the proven SportsLine computer model, which simulates every NFL game 10,000 times. This model has an impressive track record, generating over $7,000 in profit for $100 players on top-rated NFL picks since its inception, including a stellar 31-15 run on top-rated picks in 2024. Here are some of its top projections for Week 1:
Seattle Seahawks Moneyline (+116) vs. San Francisco 49ers
The Seahawks kick off their season at home against a San Francisco team dealing with significant injury concerns. While Christian McCaffrey is back, star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is sidelined with a knee injury, and Jauan Jennings has been absent from training camp due to a calf issue and contract disputes. The focus shifts to Sam Darnold, making his Seattle debut after signing a hefty three-year, $100.5 million contract. Despite past doubts, Darnold led the Vikings to a 13-4 record last season, throwing for 4,319 yards. The SportsLine model projects Seattle to win in nearly 60% of simulations, indicating strong value at these plus-money odds.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-2.5) vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Buccaneers, often underestimated, have consistently dominated the NFC South, winning four consecutive division titles. Despite losing offensive coordinator Liam Coen to the Jaguars, Baker Mayfield and the Bucs are no strangers to adapting to new play-callers, having seen their last two OCs depart for head coaching roles. The model expects this resilience to continue in Week 1. While there’s buzz around Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who led Atlanta to average 32 points per game in his three late-season starts last year, his team went just 1-2 in those games, with their sole win against the 3-14 Giants. As a young, inexperienced quarterback making his first Week 1 start, Penix Jr. faces a well-prepared Buccaneers defense. The model projects Tampa Bay to cover the spread in over 60% of simulations.
Washington Commanders (-6) vs. New York Giants
The Commanders enter Week 1 with their full arsenal of playmakers after agreeing to a new contract with star wide receiver Terry McLaurin. This is a significant boost for quarterback Jayden Daniels, who thrived with McLaurin as his WR1, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and leading Washington to a 12-5 season and an NFC Championship Game appearance. Washington was a strong bet against the spread last season, going 12-7-1 overall, including playoffs. They were particularly dominant at home, going 7-2 ATS, and 6-2 as a home favorite. In contrast, the Giants struggled as road underdogs, going 2-5 last season. The model projects the Commanders to cover the spread in over 60% of simulations, making this an A-rated pick.
Responsible Gaming: Bet Smart, Stay Safe
While the excitement of NFL betting is undeniable, it’s crucial to practice responsible gaming. Never chase losses, and utilize the tools offered by sportsbooks, such as time and wager limits, to manage your betting habits. If you or someone you know needs help, national resources like The National Council on Problem Gaming, Gamblers Anonymous, and 1-800-GAMBLER are readily available to provide support and guidance.
Get ready for an electrifying start to the 2025 NFL season! With these insights and promotions, you’re well-equipped to enjoy Week 1 responsibly and engage with the game you love.
