Thursday Night Football 2024: What You Need to Know
As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, fans are eagerly anticipating the return of Thursday Night Football (TNF). This year promises to be exciting, with a lineup of thrilling matchups, broadcasting details, and key players to watch. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming TNF games, including how to watch them and the notable matchups.
Opening Game: Chiefs vs. Ravens
The 2024 NFL season will officially begin with a highly anticipated matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens. This game is set to take place on September 5, 2024, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. This matchup is particularly significant as it is a rematch of the AFC Championship Game, where the Chiefs narrowly defeated the Ravens 17-10. Fans can expect a fierce competition as both teams aim to start the season on a high note.
Broadcasting Details
The opening game will be broadcast live on NBC, with coverage starting at 7 p.m. EDT. For those who prefer streaming, the game will also be available on Peacock and NFL+. This season marks the third year that Amazon Prime Video will be the primary streaming service for TNF, providing fans with multiple options to catch the action.
2024 Thursday Night Football Schedule
The 2024 TNF schedule features a total of 12 divisional matchups, a significant increase from previous years. Notably, three of these matchups will involve teams from the AFC North, highlighting the competitive nature of this division. Here’s a brief overview of the first few weeks of the TNF schedule:
- Week 2 (Sept. 12): Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL.
- Week 3 (Sept. 19): New England Patriots vs. New York Jets.
- Week 4 (Sept. 26): Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants.
For a complete week-by-week breakdown of the 2024 TNF schedule, fans can refer to various sports news outlets, including Sports Illustrated and CBS Sports.
Key Players to Watch
As the season unfolds, several players are expected to make significant impacts on their teams. Here are a few key players to keep an eye on during the TNF games:
- Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs): The reigning Super Bowl MVP continues to be a pivotal player for the Chiefs, known for his incredible arm strength and playmaking ability.
- Lamar Jackson (Ravens): The dynamic quarterback for the Ravens is known for his dual-threat capabilities, making him a constant challenge for opposing defenses.
- Derrick Henry (Titans): As one of the league's top running backs, Henry's performance will be crucial for the Titans in their TNF matchups.
Viewing Options and Accessibility
For fans looking to catch the games, there are several options available:
- Television: TNF games will be aired on NBC and NFL Network.
- Streaming: Fans can stream the games on Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and NFL+. Subscriptions to these services may be required, with NFL+ offering a monthly plan starting at $6.99.
Announcing Teams
As the season begins, fans are also curious about the announcing teams for TNF. For the opening game between the Chiefs and Ravens, the announcing lineup will be provided by NBC, featuring some of the network's top sports commentators. This information is crucial for fans who enjoy the commentary and analysis that accompanies the games.
Conclusion
The 2024 Thursday Night Football season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a robust schedule, competitive matchups, and star players ready to make their mark. Whether you’re watching from home or streaming on the go, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the action. As the season progresses, fans can look forward to thrilling games and unforgettable moments on Thursday nights.
For more detailed information, including the full schedule and how to watch, fans can visit resources like Sports Illustrated, CBS Sports, and USA Today.
Stay tuned for updates and enjoy the season!
