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The wait is finally over! The 2025 NFL season is upon us, and with it comes a thrilling slate of Week 1 matchups offering an abundance of betting opportunities. From fierce divisional rivalries to high-stakes primetime clashes, the opening week promises excitement for every football fan and bettor. As teams gear up for what promises to be a memorable season, let’s dive into the key matchups, expert predictions, and the best sportsbook promotions to maximize your Week 1 experience.
NFL Kickoff: Eagles Host Cowboys in Marquee Matchup
The 2025 NFL season officially kicks off with a bang on Thursday, September 4th, as the Philadelphia Eagles host their arch-rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, in a highly anticipated NFC East showdown. The Eagles enter this contest as 7-point favorites, with the over/under set at 47 points. This game not only ignites a heated divisional rivalry but also sets the tone for both teams’ playoff aspirations.
Following this opener, Friday night brings another standalone primetime spectacle as the Kansas City Chiefs (-3, 45.5) travel to Brazil to face the Los Angeles Chargers. This international clash adds an intriguing layer to Week 1, showcasing the NFL’s global reach.
Key Week 1 Games to Watch:
- Sunday Night Football: Buffalo Bills (-1, 51.5) vs. Baltimore Ravens – A clash of AFC powerhouses.
- Sunday Afternoon Thriller: Green Bay Packers (-2.5, 48.5) vs. Detroit Lions (4:25 p.m. ET) – A pivotal NFC North battle, especially with the Packers acquiring star edge rusher Micah Parsons from the Cowboys.
- “Aaron Rodgers Bowl”: New York Jets (+3, 38.5) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (1 p.m. ET) – All eyes will be on Aaron Rodgers as he leads the Jets into Pittsburgh.
Unlock Your Betting Potential: Top Sportsbook Promos for Week 1
With the 2025 NFL season finally here, countless NFL betting opportunities await. The best betting sites and apps are rolling out incredible promotions for Week 1, providing new users with bonus bets, profit boosts, and more. Here’s a breakdown of the top offers and how to claim them:
| 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 |
Bonus Bets for New Users:
- DraftKings: Place a $5+ wager and instantly receive $300 in bonus bets, plus over $200 off NFL Sunday Ticket.
Image source: Deadspin - bet365: Choose between a “Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets” offer or a “First Bet Safety Net” up to $1,000.
- FanDuel: If your first bet of at least $5 wins, you’ll receive $300 in bonus bets.
First Bet Insurance & Profit Boosts:
- BetMGM: Use code CBSSPORTS to get up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if your initial wager loses. (Note: New Jersey, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, or Michigan users may receive $150 in bonus bets if their first $10+ bet wins).
- Fanatics Sportsbook: Get up to 20 $100 No Sweat Bets in FanCash if your first football bet loses on every Game Day from August 23rd to October.
- Caesars Sportsbook: Instead of bonus bets, place a $1+ wager and receive 20 100% profit boost tokens, allowing you to double your winnings on your next 20 bets.
These promotions can be applied to any game on the Week 1 NFL schedule, starting with Eagles vs. Cowboys on Thursday, September 4th.
Week 1 NFL Betting Preview: Expert Picks and Predictions
All 32 teams will be in action during Week 1, with primetime games from Thursday through Monday. The schedule is also packed with nine divisional rivalry matchups, ensuring intense competition from the outset. Here’s a look at some of the SportsLine Projection Model’s top Week 1 NFL best bets:
Jacksonville Jaguars (-3) vs. Carolina Panthers | Sunday, Sept. 7, 1 p.m. ET
The Jacksonville Jaguars are undergoing a significant transition with former Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen taking over as head coach. Coen, credited with revitalizing Baker Mayfield’s career, now aims to develop former No. 1 overall pick Trevor Lawrence. With emerging receiver Brian Thomas Jr. and the versatile Travis Hunter, the Jaguars’ offense is poised for improvement. In a weaker AFC South, Jacksonville could quickly contend. Meanwhile, the Panthers are still in a rebuilding phase, grappling with roster construction and evaluating Bryce Young’s long-term potential. The model projects Jacksonville to cover the spread in 54% of simulations.
Seattle Seahawks Money Line (+118) vs. San Francisco 49ers | Sunday, Sept. 7, 4:05 p.m. ET
A surprising offseason saw the Seahawks trade Geno Smith to the Raiders and sign Sam Darnold, fresh off a career year with Minnesota. The receiving corps also saw significant changes with Tyler Lockett’s departure, DK Metcalf’s trade to the Steelers, and the addition of Cooper Kupp. However, Mike Macdonald’s defense, which ranked 11th in scoring in 2024, is expected to improve further with the addition of four-time Pro Bowler DeMarcus Lawrence. The 49ers, plagued by injuries last season, face lingering concerns with Brandon Aiyuk recovering from an ACL tear. The model sees Seattle winning outright in an impressive 57% of simulations.
Over 41.5 points: Denver Broncos vs. Tennessee Titans | Sunday, Sept. 7, 4:05 p.m. ET
Sean Payton’s influence has revitalized the Broncos, leading them to a 10-win playoff season in 2024, significantly boosted by Bo Nix’s revelatory rookie year. The offense is expected to be even stronger in 2025 with the addition of tight end Evan Engram and a revamped running game featuring J.K. Dobbins and second-round pick RJ Harvey. The Tennessee Titans are hoping for a similar offensive surge with No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward taking over at quarterback. Ward will have veteran receivers in Calvin Ridley, Tyler Lockett, and Van Jefferson. With both teams featuring potentially explosive offenses, the model predicts the over hits in 61% of simulations.
Gamble Responsibly: A Crucial Reminder
As you enjoy the excitement of NFL Week 1 and explore the various betting opportunities, remember the importance of responsible gaming. All reputable sportsbooks offer tools and resources to help you manage your betting, including time and wager limits, and voluntary self-exclusion options. Many also provide 24/7 live chat support and links to local and national problem gambling helplines.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, please reach out to trained professionals. The Problem Gambling Help Network at 1-800-GAMBLER is available to provide confidential support and resources.
