2025 NFL Season Launch: Eagles Triumph Over Cowboys in Season Opener as International Games Expand

Opening Night Drama Sets Tone for 2025 NFL Season

The 2025 NFL season commenced with high drama as the defending champions Philadelphia Eagles secured a hard-fought 24-20 victory over their archrivals, the Dallas Cowboys, at Lincoln Financial Field.

The game started with unprecedented controversy when Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected before the first snap for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott during an injury delay.

The first half was marked by explosive offensive displays, featuring multiple rushing touchdowns from both teams’ key players. Cowboys running back Javonte Williams and Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts each scored twice, while Saquon Barkley added another score.

International Expansion and Season Structure

The NFL has significantly expanded its international presence for 2025, scheduling seven International Series games. The series began with Kansas City facing the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo, Brazil. Other notable international fixtures include Minnesota versus Pittsburgh at Dublin’s Croke Park – marking the first NFL regular season game in Ireland – and three games in London, split between Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium.

The 2025 season will follow an 18-week schedule, with each of the 32 teams playing 17 games and receiving one bye week. The regular season, which began on September 4, will conclude on January 4, 2026, with all final weekend games being intra-division matchups.

Rule Changes and Season Outlook

Notable rule changes for 2025 include modified overtime rules ensuring both teams get a possession opportunity, though regular season overtime remains limited to 10 minutes. Additionally, replay officials now have expanded authority to advise on-field officials regarding specific, objective aspects of plays and game administration issues.

The season, which began with the Eagles’ victory over Dallas, will build toward its climax with the playoffs starting on January 10, culminating in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8.