NFL TO HOST COMMUNITY EVENTS ACROSS TAMPA BAY THROUGHOUT 2021 KICKOFF WEEK In the lead up to the Dallas – Tampa Bay Kickoff game in Tampa on Thursday, September 9, the NFL will host a series of community and service events to celebrate the start of the league's long-awaited season. From local efforts to fight hunger, events that honor our military members, and community greening projects, the NFL will unite and strengthen the community by leaving a lasting, positive impact on Tampa and the surrounding areas. As a follow up event to Super Bowl LV, the NFL will start Kickoff week by celebrating the PASSING OF THE GOLDEN SHOVEL from Tampa to Los Angeles, which further progresses its dedication to sustainability across the country. As a part of this, NFL GREEN will work alongside Verizon, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, The Tampa Bay Estuary Program and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission to restore and plant sand dunes on Picnic Island. Following the passing of the golden shovel, the NFL will continue its efforts to make the Tampa community greener. In partnership with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Verizon, and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, the NFL will build and install a hydroponic garden and pollinator gardens at Forest Hills Park community center. These NFL GREEN GARDENS will serve the community and its residents for generations to come. To close out the week, NFL GREEN will be joining Force Blue, Pepsi Stronger Together, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, NAUI, Keep Florida Beautiful and The Florida Aquarium for a marine debris and ghost fishing gear removal operation and a pier cleanup at Anna Maria Island. The INSPIRE CHANGE HUDDLE LEGACY event on Tuesday of Kickoff week will honor the league's commitment to help close the digital divide. This event acts as a continuation of the INSPIRE CHANGE LEGACY GRANT PROGRAM which was launched during 2021 Draft week. As part of this program, the NFL Foundation and Cisco are each donating $75,000, totaling $150,000, to Safe & Sound Hillsborough. This donation will help fund technology infrastructure at the reporting center and support online STEM curriculum for the youth. The NFL will also work with THE CRISIS CENTER OF TAMPA BAY and THE SPRING OF TAMPA BAY, dropping off backpacks full of school supplies, allowing both organizations to directly support families in the Tampa Bay community. To honor military members and their families, the NFL, Tampa Bay Sports Commission and Force Blue will host a SALUTE TO SERVICE event to share the documentary,100 Yards of Hope, with hundreds of Tampa Bay service members. The film focuses on the collective partnership between the NFL, special operations military divers, scientists and natural resource managers who came together to restore a football field-sized coral reef for Super Bowl LVI and LV. The NFL and the UNITED SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS(USO) will also host an event inside of the NFL Kickoff Experience that invites fans to prepare care packages for service members, which will help express America's gratitude to our Armed Forces while strengthening their connection to family, home and country during the upcoming holiday season. Ahead of Kickoff on Thursday, the NFL will work with Feeding Tampa Bay (FTB) to host two HUDDLE TO TACKLE HUNGER Kickoff Events. This builds upon the initial program that was launched at Super Bowl LV where the NFL Foundation made a $250,000 donation to FTB to combat food insecurity in the region, an issue that has been exacerbated by the pandemic. The events will be hosted at FTB's Trinity Café locations, as a part of FTB's daily commitment to serve food to those in need. NFL Legends will be on-site to help hand out healthy meals as well as NFL branded merchandise. The league continues to work closely with the CDC and local Tampa health officials on all 2021 Kickoff events to ensure we are providing an experience that is as safe and successful as possible for the local community and its many visitors. ###
OVERVIEW OF DRAFT WEEK EVENTS An overview of each event is listed below, with full details and media contact for each event NFL Green Golden Shovel Pass: Thursday, September 2nd 8-11am ET, Picnic Island - As a follow up event to Super Bowl LV, the passing of the golden shovel from Tampa to Los Angeles will occur on September 2. Volunteers will restore and plant sand dunes on Picnic Island to help prevent erosion and protect against storm damage. This project closes the loop on the location where the NFL began greening efforts leading up to Super Bowl LV. Partners Verizon, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, the Tampa Bay Estuary Program and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission will also assist in the activities.
Media - For more information on the NFL Green Golden Shovel Pass, contact Jordyn White, NFL, Jordyn.White@NFL.com
Huddle for Change: Racial Equity & Mental Health: Tuesday September 7th, 4-6pm ET, Hybrid Event; In-person portion will take place at Firestick Grill at Amalie Arena (https://www.communitytampabay.org/huddle-for-change?blm_aid=43757)
- Huddle for Change is a partnership between the Super Bowl LV Host Committee, NFL Inspire Change, the University of South Florida, and Community Tampa Bay to welcome community members and local leaders to participate in an open and honest discussion about systemic racism and racial inequalities. Community Tampa Bay will discuss data findings, their own lived experiences, and tangible action steps our community can implement to eliminate systemic injustices in the Tampa Bay community.
Media - For more information on Huddle For Change, contact Toiaya Crawford at toiaya@crackerjackmedia.com or 813.203.7616
Inspire Change Huddle Legacy Event: Tuesday September 7th, 5:30-7pm ET, Safe & Sound Hillsborough-Kings Forest Recreation Center, 8008 E Chelsea St, Tampa, FL 33610
- The NFL Foundation, and Cisco, an Official Technology Partner of the NFL, will host an event with Safe & Sound Hillsborough to address the digital divide as a continuation of the Inspire Change Huddle Legacy Grant program launched during 2021 Draft week. The NFL Foundation and Cisco are each donating $75,000, totaling $150,000, to support tech upgrades, infrastructure improvements, and enhanced programming for Safe & Sound Hillsborough's reporting center to empower the young men they serve. Representatives from the NFL, along with NFL Legends, will take part in a one hour 'daily' curriculum which includes STEM curriculum and peer-to-peer engagement. *RSVP only event for media
Media – To RSVP to the Huddle Legacy Event, contact Jordyn White, NFL, Jordyn.White@NFL.com
Salute to Service Event: Tuesday September 7th, 7pm ET, Tampa Theater (doors open at 6:30pm to invited guests and media)
- To honor military members and their families, the NFL, Tampa Bay Sports Commission and Force Blue will host a Salute to Service event to share the documentary 100 Yards of Hope with hundreds of Tampa Bay service men and women. The film focuses on the unique partnership between the NFL, special operations military divers, scientists and natural resource managers who came together to restore a football field-sized coral reef for Super Bowl LVI and LV.
Media - For more information on the Salute to Service event, contact Jordyn White, NFL, Jordyn.White@NFL.com
NFL Green Gardens: Wednesday, September 8th, 8-11am ET, Forest Hills Park Community Center - In partnership with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Verizon and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, the NFL will build and install a hydroponic garden and pollinator gardens at Forest Hills Park community center.
Media - For more information on NFL Green Gardens, contact Jack Groh, NFL Green, Groh@nflenvironment.com
Huddle to Tackle Hunger Kickoff Event: Thursday, September 9th at 11:30am – 1:30pm ET, Two Trinity Café locations (2801 N. Nebraska Ave. and 2202 E. Busch Blvd.) - To expand on the Huddle to Tackle Hunger program that the NFL launched at Super Bowl LV in partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay (FTB), the NFL and FTB will host a community event during NFL Kickoff Week in Tampa, bringing the excitement of NFL Kickoff directly to those in FTB's care. Both Trinity Café locations are serving meals daily, with a choice of tableside or drive-thru supporting those seeking a complimentary hot and healthy, chef-prepared meal. As part of the Huddle to Tackle Hunger program, original partner Pipo's will be providing additional 'meals on the go' at both locations. NFL partners Campbell's® Chunky®, Frito Lay and Pepsi will also provide products to guest onsite - guests will also receive NFL branded merchandise. *There will be events at both locations but media can head to Trinity One on N. Nebraska Ave
Media - For more information on the Huddle to Tackle Hunger Event, contact Jordyn White, NFL, Jordyn.White@NFL.com
Marine Debris and Pier Cleanup: Friday, September 10th, 9am – 2pm ET, Anna Maria City Pier Landmark, Anna Maria Island (just south of Tampa) - NFL Green is joining Force Blue, Pepsi Stronger Together, Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, NAUI, Keep Florida Beautiful and The Florida Aquarium for a marine debris and ghost fishing gear removal operation and pier cleanup at Anna Maria Island. Local volunteers will join divers from Force Blue who will handle the underwater portion of this community cleanup.
Media - For more information and exact cleanup location, contact Jack Groh, NFL Green, Groh@nflenvironment.com
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY EVENTS Character Playbook 2021 Kickoff Event: Tuesday, September 7, 1pm ET, Zoom (https://everfi.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IDp8r5gZSEeTlLV-YfNiBg)
- The start to the 2021 school year brings a new set of opportunities and challenges. The NFL/United Way Character Playbook program kicks off the year with NFL Legend host Dhani Jones, Bengals Legend and NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Munoz, and Jeremy "Freddie Falcon" Legg as they help high school students explore how to stay mentally tough through transitions and how to be a positive part of any community. Funded by the NFL Foundation and United Way Worldwide, Character Playbook is a digital education resource that supports positive character development, social emotional learning, mental wellness and healthy relationships in middle and high school students. The Healthy Relationships program is available nationally to middle school students, while Mental Wellness Basics reaches 160 high schools across the country, all free of charge.
America's Game 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers and No Risk It, No Biscuit Premiere Wednesday, September 8 on NFL Network | 'America's Game: 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Premieres at 8:00 PM ET – Narrated by John Cena 'No Risk It, No Biscuit: Bruce Arians and the 2020 Buccaneers' Premieres at 9:00 PM ET – Narrated by Billie Jean King The night before the 2021 NFL regular season kicks off, NFL Network celebrates the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a pair of documentary features.
On Wednesday, September 8, America's Game: 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers premieres at 8:00 PM ET, followed by No Risk It, No Biscuit: Bruce Arians and the 2020 Buccaneers at 9:00 PM ET. America's Game: 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers At 8:00 PM ET, America's Game: 2020 Tampa Bay Buccaneers premieres, featuring in-depth interviews with linebacker Devin White, wide receiver Mike Evans and running back Leonard Fournette telling the story of the Super Bowl LV champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Narrated by professional wrestler and actor John Cena, America's Game delves deep into the Buccaneers' second Super Bowl title in franchise history. In the hour-long show, White, Evans and Fournette recount the season in their own words.
Among the topics discussed in America's Game: 2020 Buccaneers:
- Bruce Arians coming out of retirement to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as head coach in 2019
- The signing of quarterback Tom Brady in free agency and running back Leonard Fournette joining the team following his release by the Jacksonville Jaguars
- Devin White's emergence as a team leader in his second season
- Losing to the division rival New Orleans Saints twice in the regular season before defeating them in the NFC Divisional Round
- Defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV after losing to them at home in the regular season
This year's edition of America's Game is the 55th episode of the long-running special which celebrates the Super Bowl champions.
Provided below are select quotes from America's Game: 2020 Buccaneers:
- "They were saying I was a locker room cancer. It was my first time ever getting cut. I've always been that guy in football – No. 1 player coming out of high school, No. 1 in college – so it was a different feeling." – Leonard Fournette on being released by the Jacksonville Jaguars - "I produce. They're not going to listen to a second-year guy that's not benefiting the team." – Devin White on emerging as a team leader - "We were a really talented roster. I felt that we were the most talented roster in the NFL. We just weren't doing the little things that other teams had been doing that have been together for multiple years." – Mike Evans on the Buccaneers' struggles against playoff-caliber teams - "We just played supposedly the best team in the NFL – the reigning Super Bowl champs – and that was the best shot they gave us? They let us come all the way back and almost win? I feel like we're the best team in the NFL." – Devin White on the 27-24 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 12 - "I still wasn't playing. Coach [Bruce Arians] just told me he felt I needed to get my mind right. He felt like mentally I wasn't there and truthfully, I really wasn't." – Leonard Fournette on not playing in the middle part of the season - "That play they say [Aaron Rodgers] should have ran, I'm standing right there at the endzone. You think Aaron Rodgers can beat me to the endzone? No sir." – Devin White on the 3rd down play in the fourth quarter of the NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers - "The whole week and the whole day leading up to the game, everybody knew we were going to win." – Mike Evans on Super Bowl LV - "For a guy of his caliber to think that Leonard Fournette – a guy from New Orleans' Seventh Ward coming from nothing – could help this organization be champions that means a lot. It's like Superman telling you to come join my team and come be a hero with me." – Leonard Fournette on Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady No Risk It, No Biscuit: Bruce Arians and the 2020 Buccaneers At 9:00 PM ET, No Risk It, No Biscuit: Bruce Arians and the 2020 Buccaneers premieres on NFL Network, providing a detailed and close-up look at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' second Super Bowl title in franchise history from the coaches' perspective.
Narrated by Hall of Fame tennis player and social justice and gender equality advocate Billie Jean King, the hour-long show features interviews with Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians, general manager Jason Licht and the following Buccaneers coaches:
- Byron Leftwich – Offensive Coordinator
- Todd Bowles – Defensive Coordinator
- Keith Armstrong – Special Teams Coordinator
- Clyde Christensen – Quarterbacks Coach
- Mike Caldwell – Inside Linebackers Coach
- Rick Christophel – Tight Ends Coach
- Larry Foote – Outside Linebackers Coach
- Kevin Garver – Wide Receivers Coach
- Joe Gilbert – Offensive Line Coach
- Maral Javadifar – Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach
- Lori Locust – Assistant Defensive Line Coach
- Todd McNair – Running Backs Coach
- Nick Rapone – Safeties Coach
- Kacy Rodgers – Defensive Line Coach
- Kevin Ross – Cornerbacks Coach
Among the topics discussed in No Risk It, No Biscuit:
- Bruce Arians' philosophy of "No Risk It, No Biscuit" and how it applies to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' style of play
- Bruce Arians' coaching connections which stretch back to his time at Temple University
- The signing of quarterback Tom Brady and incorporating him into the Buccaneers' offensive system
- Key adjustments made after regular season losses to the New Orleans Saints and Kansas City Chiefs which resulted in wins over both teams in the postseason
Provided below are select quotes from No Risk It, No Biscuit:
- "It's been a long journey. I never thought I would be coaching again and then to do it in our second year is really special. I can't say enough about the staff and the job they've done." – Bruce Arians on winning Super Bowl LV - "No risk it, no biscuit – that's his personality. It's going to be all or nothing." – Rick Christophel on Bruce Arians - "He's had that philosophy back in the day when the league wasn't playing like that. I remember getting with him in 2008 in Pittsburgh and he was the same way: score, score." – Byron Leftwich on Bruce Arians' high-powered offensive philosophy - "What stands out about him is his loyalty in both directions: people to him, and also him to coaches and players." – Clyde Christensen on Bruce Arians - "BA is who he is. He's always been this way. This is not an initiative that he's following, it's not him checking boxes – these are people that he knows. It's so refreshing to have a coach who can look past what you look like on the outside and just understand your potential." – Lori Locust on Bruce Arians' coaching staff - "That was the first game where I can see him getting more comfortable. I could see him communicating differently with the players which means he knows it now, and now he's putting his spin on it." – Byron Leftwich on Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady in the Week 4 win over the Los Angeles Chargers - "We got punched in the mouth early. I think we had four bad plays in the first quarter." – Todd Bowles on the Week 12 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs - "We took an attitude of we're going to attack. We're going to attack from here until the season is over, and we're going to push the ball down the field and we're going to attack." – Bruce Arians on the final four games of the regular season - "I thought Todd [Bowles] had a masterplan. If Patrick [Mahomes] wants to run around, let him run around but he's not going to beat us running around." – Bruce Arians on Super Bowl LV ABOUT NFL MEDIA NFL Media is comprised of NFL Network, NFL Films, NFL.com, the NFL app and NFL RedZone.
Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, fans turn to NFL Network to receive information and insight straight from the field, team headquarters, league offices and everywhere the NFL is making news. Launched in 2003, NFL Network gives fans unprecedented year-round inside access to all NFL events, including the Super Bowl, Playoffs, regular season, preseason, Pro Bowl, Pro Football Hall of Fame induction weekend, NFL Draft, NFL Scouting Combine, Senior Bowl, league meetings, minicamps and training camps.
For fans on the go, all NFL Network programming can be streamed live through the NFL app and NFL Network app on smartphones, tablets, PCs and connected TV devices (Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, PlayStation 4, Roku and Xbox One). Access is available for NFL Network subscribers of participating TV providers. For more information, go to NFL.com/nflnetwork. NFL PLANS TO RECOGNIZE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11TH DURING KICKOFF WEEKEND GAMES ON-FIELD, IN STADIUMS, ON BROADCASTS | As the league kicks off its 102nd season this week, the NFL family will join together to recognize the 20th anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001 and honor those who have lost and sacrificed their lives over the last two decades. Plans announced today include a continued commitment to Tuesday's Children, which works to ensure that families who have suffered losses due to the events of 9/11, post-9/11 military service, or other acts of mass violence and terrorism always have a comforting place to turn to for support and community. Tuesday's Children helped the NFL to identify families to honor, including the Cayne family, which will be recognized before the NFL's Kickoff game in Tampa Bay on Thursday, September 9 in stadium through an announcement and on-air on NBC. The Cayne family, who currently reside in Florida, lost their father on 9/11. The NFL will provide unifying moments nationwide on air and in all stadiums just prior to the start of the nine 1 p.m. ET NFL games on Sunday, September 12. Just prior to the start of those games, an NFL Media produced tribute video will be simulcast nationwide across CBS and FOX pregame shows to highlight what the days after 9/11 meant to America. The piece, which ties in the challenges of the past two years and how Americans overcome hardships together, is narrated by award-winning actor and former FDNY firefighter Steve Buscemi. Immediately following the tribute video, a performance of the National Anthem from the National September 11 Memorial and Museum will be performed by music therapist Juliette Candela, who was also selected by Tuesday's Children. Candela's father, John, lost his life on 9/11 in the World Trade Center. Juliette's performance will honor her father and all others who lost their lives on that day. Clubs will remember 9/11 on-field during Week 1 games in the following ways: - Players will each wear a specially designed 9/11 ribbon helmet decal.
- 9/11 lapel pins will be worn on sidelines by coaches and team personnel. Broadcast announcers, media members and club and league employees also will be provided the pins.
- Special NYPD, FDNY and Port Authority Police Department hats will be worn in partnership with NYC & Co. and New Era at the Denver Broncos at New York Giants and New York Jets at Carolina Panthers games to commemorate the first responders who risked and lost their lives in the aftermath of 9/11.
Select clubs will also invite a Tuesday's Children family to their home game in Week 1 and participate alongside the league in 9/11 Day of service, which is a day of volunteering to rekindle the extraordinary spirit of togetherness and compassion that arose in the immediate aftermath of 9/11. Additionally, on September 10 at 9 p.m. ET, NFL Network will air an hour-long special hosted by Melissa Stark, NFL360 Remembering 9/11. The show will include features on late NFL head coach Jim Fassel and how he led the New York Giants during the 2001 season, Rich Eisen remembering 9/11, an interview with Al Michaels and Stark discussing the 2001 MNF season, and features on New York Jets Head Coach Robert Saleh and the FDNY vs. NYPD 9/11 tribute football game. The piece on both Saleh and the FDNY vs. NYPD 9/11 tribute game will premiere on a 9/11 themed episode of NFL Films Presents on September 8 at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1. The NFL also has partnered with America250 on the America250 Awards, a multi-year program that honors Americans who exemplify the intangible qualities of the American spirit. The public is invited to nominate by October 11 someone whose heroic actions to help others were inspired by 9/11. Three winners will receive two round-trip tickets and accommodations to a Thanksgiving Day NFL game this year where they will be recognized on the field. National Football League and iHeartMedia Announce 'NFL's Podcast Network' Programming Lineup | Existing NFL Media Podcasts Such as 'Around the NFL', 'Move the Sticks', 'NFL Fantasy Football Podcast' & Others Return New Podcasts Such as 'NFL Inside Report', 'NFL explained.' & 'Tape Heads' Beginning to Launch This Week With the 2021 NFL regular season set to kick off on Thursday, September 9, the National Football League and iHeartMedia announce the NFL's Podcast Network programming lineup.
Earlier this year, the NFL and iHeartMedia announced an exclusive partnership to launch the NFL's Podcast Network which includes the distribution of NFL Media's existing podcasts, certain Member Club podcasts, and the co-production and distribution of two dozen new original shows with the iHeartPodcast Network. All podcasts will be available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard.
"We are excited to bring this new slate of podcasts to NFL fans everywhere, representing the best storytelling, access and talent from NFL Media and NFL Films," said Meredith Battin, NFL Vice President, Head of Business Operations & Club Media. "Through the NFL's partnership with iHeartMedia and the launch of the NFL's Podcast Network, it will be even easier for fans to discover great new podcasts from the NFL and participating Clubs."
"We are proud to team up with the NFL to roll out an incredible lineup of podcasts," said Will Pearson, Chief Operating Officer, iHeartPodcast Network. "Just as this football season kicks off, we're thrilled to introduce such an expansive slate of shows featuring amazing talent across the NFL that will appeal to both casual fans and diehard fans around the globe."
NFL Media's existing podcast lineup includes:
- Around the NFL – The Around the NFL crew of Gregg Rosenthal, Dan Hanzus and Marc Sessler break down the latest football news, with a dash of mirth. New episodes are available each week on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday
- Move the Sticks with Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks – Former NFL scouts Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks break down the latest news and action from a scout's perspective. The duo is regularly joined by top NFL player personnel executives to bring you in-depth analysis of on-field performances and behind-the-scenes insights into how NFL front offices manage their teams throughout the season. New episodes are available each week on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
- NFL Fantasy Football Podcast – Fantasy Football fans, this is the podcast for you! Marcas Grant and Michael F. Florio provide detailed fantasy football analysis, combining in-depth stats and film study to help you win your league and earn bragging rights over your friends, co-workers and family. New episodes are available each week on Monday and Wednesday
- Good Morning Football – Each morning from the heart of New York City, Good Morning Football hosts Kay Adams, Peter Schrager and Kyle Brandt discuss the national NFL news and local stories, along with Will Selva. Good Morning Football sets the narrative and agenda for everything from the NFL Draft, to training camp, to the NFL playing season across all of sports media. New episodes are available each week Monday – Friday
- NFL Total Access: The Locker Room – Super Bowl champion Michael Robinson, NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo and former/current players take you inside the locker room for unique stories that have never been told. New episodes are available each week on Wednesday and Friday
- NFL Players Podcast – The NFL Players Podcast is an unscripted series sharing the stories and personal journeys of the NFL players community – as told by the players. Hosted by current NFL players and Legends, topics include parenting, coaching, entrepreneurship and overcoming adversity. New episodes are available each week on Wednesday
New podcasts coming to the NFL's Podcast Network include:
- NFL explained. – Just launched! NFL explained., hosted by Aditi Kinkhabwala and Mike Yam, is a new original podcast series that takes fans behind-the-scenes of the inner workings of the NFL. From how the regular season schedule is made, to the evolution of the Super Bowl, NFL explained. looks to answer the NFL's biggest questions. NFL explained. debuted on August 25 and new episodes are available each week on Thursday
- NFL Inside Report – Don't miss out on the top NFL stories provided by NFL Media's wide array of talent. Hosted by Rhett Lewis, NFL Inside Report takes you beyond the headlines with NFL Media's reporters and experts providing game recaps, the biggest news and in-depth storytelling. NFL Inside Report launches on Wednesday, September 8 with new episodes available each week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Listen to the trailer now
- Tape Heads – Hosted by Dan Orlovsky, Bob Wischusen and Scott Pioli, Tape Heads is a twice-weekly, in-season X-and-O's podcast giving the fans the "whys and the hows" of each week's NFL action. In each episode, Dan, Bob and Scott detail the biggest moments of the NFL weekend based on their tape study of the All-22 coaching film. Conversations fueled by observation and analysis give fans the insight and information they crave. Tape Heads launches Tuesday, September 14 and new episodes will be available each week on Tuesday and Thursday. Listen to the trailer now
- Split Ends – Split Ends, hosted by Colleen Wolfe and Erica Tamposi, is a new podcast that provides fans with a fresh, irreverent and decidedly different perspective on NFL headlines. This conversational, weekly show features guest appearances from NFL Media personalities, interviews with NFL players and personnel, and special guests from the sports and entertainment media landscape. Split Ends is a show for all football fans, especially for those who like a little more fun in their NFL coverage. Split Ends launches in October and new episodes will be available each week on Tuesday
- NFL Films Tales from the Vault – NFL Films Tales from the Vault is a weekly podcast that takes you on a deep dive into NFL history. Hosted by Andrea Kremer, NFL Films Tales from the Vault features full-length interviews conducted by the late Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve Sabol with some of the game's all-time legends that have never been heard in their entirety before. Featured interviews include Troy Aikman, Andy Reid, Howie Long and others. Andrea – who began her career as a producer at NFL Films – will provide context and insight into these great conversations. NFL Films Tales from the Vault launches in the Fall
- Earnin' It: The NFL's Forward Progress – Earnin' It: The NFL's Forward Progress is a groundbreaking new podcast that will feature the stories of women in the NFL, breaking "grass" ceilings from the field to the front office. Earnin' It is hosted by the NFL's Senior Director of Diversity and Inclusion Sam Rapoport, a former professional quarterback who dreamed of creating a women's pipeline to bring talented football minds into the game – which has become a reality today. The story of this forward progress is told by NFL head coaches, owners, players, and of course, the women themselves. Earnin' It – produced by Rapoport and Jane Skinner Goodell – launches in the Fall
Week 1 NFL Preview |
ALL 32 TEAMS SHARE SINGULAR GOAL AS NFL KICKS OFF ENHANCED SEASON “Life starts all over again,” wrote F. Scott Fitzgerald, “when it gets crisp in the fall.” And this fall in the National Football League, that initial autumn breeze means an enhanced 18-week, 272-game regular-season schedule. Each team is playing 17 regular-season games for the first time, providing fans an extra week of action. It marks the first change to the season structure since the 1978 campaign ushered in an era of 16 regular-season and four preseason games. Life starting all over again also means 32 clubs are tied for first place, and that means every NFL coach, player and fan has insatiable hope. Why so much hopeful optimism entering 2021? - Over the past 18 seasons (2003-20), the average number of division winners that missed the postseason the year prior is 3.3 – including 26 division champions that finished last the year before. Both the PITTSBURGH STEELERS (AFC North) and WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM (NFC East) won their divisions in 2020 after missing the postseason in 2019, and at least two teams have won their divisions the season after missing the playoffs in 17 of the past 18 years.
- Since 1990, 5.8 teams per year have qualified for the playoffs after missing the postseason the previous year. Over that stretch – a streak of 31 consecutive seasons – at least four teams every season have qualified for the playoffs after failing to make the postseason the year before. Seven teams that missed the postseason in 2019 – CHICAGO, CLEVELAND, INDIANAPOLIS, LOS ANGELES RAMS, PITTSBURGH, TAMPA BAY and WASHINGTON – accomplished the feat in 2020.
- And no team has won consecutive Super Bowls since the 2003-04 NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS, the longest stretch in NFL history without a repeat Super Bowl champion.
The team currently challenged with breaking that streak, the TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS, will kick off the NFL’s 102nd season on Thursday when the defending champions host the DALLAS COWBOYS (8:20 PM ET, NBC). In that game, quarterback TOM BRADY needs 300 passing yards to join DREW BREES (123 games) as the only players with at least 100 career games of 300-or-more passing yards in NFL history. Brady enters Thursday with 99 such games. The Buccaneers, Cowboys and 30 other teams enter 2021 with one goal in mind: A trip to SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Super Bowl LVI on Feb. 13. ROOKIE RESPECT: In 13 consecutive seasons, at least one rookie quarterback has started a Week 1 game, the longest streak in the NFL since at least 1950. - The top two overall selections in the 2021 draft – Clemson’s TREVOR LAWRENCE (No. 1, Jacksonville) and BYU’s ZACH WILSON (No. 2, New York Jets) – are expected to extend the streak early in the afternoon on Sunday. Both signal-callers will be on the road; the Jaguars meet the Texans (1:00 PM ET, CBS) and the Jets travel to Carolina (1:00 PM ET, CBS) to play their former quarterback SAM DARNOLD, acquired by the Panthers in an offseason trade. Darnold’s new teammates include rookie cornerback JAYCEE HORN (selected No. 8 overall), expected to make his NFL debut for Carolina.
- The last two starting quarterbacks at the University of Alabama will square off in New England Sunday (4:25 PM ET, CBS) when Patriots rookie MAC JONES (No. 15 overall) opens his NFL career against the Dolphins and TUA TAGOVAILOA, the fifth overall selection in the 2020 draft. Both players joined the Alabama program in 2017 and combined to lead the Crimson Tide to a berth in three of the past four national championship games. The AFC East showdown is also expected to feature the debut of former Alabama wide receiver JAYLEN WADDLE, the sixth-overall selection in the 2021 draft.
Elsewhere this weekend: - Steelers rookie running back NAJEE HARRIS (24th overall) is expected to make his NFL debut when Pittsburgh makes the short trip to open the season Sunday at reigning AFC East champion Buffalo (1:00 PM ET, CBS).
- Two potential offensive stars – Atlanta tight end KYLE PITTS (No. 4 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft – the highest selected tight end in the common-draft era) and Philadelphia wide receiver DEVONTA SMITH (No. 10, the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner) – will be on opposite sidelines at Mercedes-Benz Stadium when Pitts’ Falcons host the Eagles on Sunday (1:00 PM ET, FOX).
- In Cincinnati on Sunday, Bengals rookie wide receiver JA’MARR CHASE (No. 5 overall) will line up for the first time with his college quarterback, JOE BURROW (No. 1 overall in 2020), when the Bengals host former LSU teammate JUSTIN JEFFERSON and the Vikings (1:00 PM ET, FOX). The last time the trio was on the same field, the 2020 College Football Playoff National Championship, Burrow threw for 463 yards and five touchdowns while Chase had nine catches for 221 yards with two touchdowns, and Jefferson nine receptions for 106 yards.
- Several rookie offensive linemen, including Lions tackle PENEI SEWELL (No. 7 overall), Chargers tackle RASHAWN SLATER (No. 13), Jets guard ALIJAH VERA-TUCKER (No. 14) and Las Vegas tackle ALEX LEATHERWOOD (No. 17), are expected to make their NFL debuts on Sunday.
- On the defensive side, rookie linebackers MICAH PARSONS (No. 12, Dallas), ZAVEN COLLINS (No. 16, Arizona) and JAMIN DAVIS (No. 19, Washington) are expected to anchor the middle of their respective defenses this weekend, while cornerback PAT SURTAIN (No. 9, Denver) and defensive end KWITY PAYE (No. 21, Indianapolis) will also make their first NFL appearances.
YOUTH MOVEMENT IN AFC EAST: All four quarterbacks expected to start for their AFC East teams this weekend, including TUA TAGOVAILOA (23 years old) and MAC JONES (23) in New England on Sunday (4:25 PM ET, CBS), are under the age of 26 to open the season. If JOSH ALLEN (25) starts for Buffalo and ZACH WILSON (22) opens for the Jets, it will mark the first time in 36 years that four starting quarterbacks in the same NFL division were under the age of 26 at the start of a season. In 1985, TONY EASON (25) of New England, Pro Football Hall of Famer DAN MARINO (23) of Miami, KEN O’BRIEN (24) of the Jets and ART SCHLICHTER (25) of Indianapolis began the year under center in the AFC East. The Dolphins, Jets and Patriots reached the playoffs that season, and New England earned a berth in Super Bowl XX. CONSISTENTLY PRODUCTIVE: When Green Bay meets New Orleans for a Sunday showdown between 2020 NFC division winners (4:25 PM ET, FOX, in Jacksonville), two of the NFL’s most consistently productive players will be in action. Only six individuals have rushed for at least 700 yards in each of the past three seasons (2018-20), including the Packers’ AARON JONES and the Saints’ ALVIN KAMARA. The players with at least 700 rushing yards in each of the past three seasons: PLAYER | TEAM | RUSHING YARDS (2018-20) | SCRIMMAGE YARDS (2018-20) | Nick Chubb | Cleveland | 3,557 | 4,134 | Gus Edwards | Baltimore | 2,152 | 2,346 | Ezekiel Elliott | Dallas | 3,770 | 5,095 | Derrick Henry | Tennessee | 4,626 | 5,045 | Aaron Jones | Green Bay | 2,916 | 3,951 | Alvin Kamara | New Orleans | 2,612 | 4,610 |
PLAYOFF TEAMS FACE OFF: That Packers-Saints contest is one of five games on the Week 1 docket featuring two teams that qualified for the 2020 playoffs. - Included in that group is a rematch of an AFC Divisional game between the CLEVELAND BROWNS and KANSAS CITY CHIEFS on Sunday (4:25 PM, CBS). Including the postseason, Chiefs head coach ANDY REID is 8-0 against the Browns, 4-0 with Philadelphia and 4-0 with Kansas City. Kansas City defeated Cleveland, 22-17, last postseason and became the first team since Reid’s 2002-04 PHILADELPHIA EAGLES to host three consecutive championship games.
- Both the Packers and Chiefs will be looking to extend the league’s longest active winning streak on Kickoff Weekend. Each club has won its first game in six consecutive seasons.
- Another tilt on the Kickoff Weekend card features the SEATTLE SEAHAWKS at INDIANAPOLIS COLTS on Sunday (1:00 PM ET, FOX). Including the playoffs, Seattle in the Eastern Time Zone has won 12 of its past 13 games. Quarterback RUSSELL WILSON in those 13 games is 12-1 with a 117.9 passer rating, 3,598 passing yards, 26 touchdown passes and five interceptions.
- In a marquee early game Sunday (1:00 PM ET, CBS), the PITTSBURGH STEELERS – who ranked third in the NFL last year in total defense (305.8 yards per game) and finished second in scoring defense (19.5 points per game) – face the BUFFALO BILLS, whose offense was second in the league in both yards per game (396.4) and points per game (31.3).
- The LOS ANGELES RAMS will welcome fans to SoFi Stadium for the first time when the CHICAGO BEARS pay a visit on Sunday Night Football (8:20 PM ET, NBC). Chicago has 55 wins on Kickoff Weekend, the second-most in NFL history, while the Rams have won four consecutive Week 1 games.
REIGNING ROOKIES OF THE YEAR: For the second straight season and fourth time in NFL history, the defending Associated Press rookies of the year will clash on Kickoff Weekend. At FedExField on Sunday (1:00 PM ET, CBS), 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year JUSTIN HERBERT will lead the Chargers against 2020 Defensive Rookie of the Year CHASE YOUNG and Washington. Last season, Herbert recorded the most touchdown passes (31) and most completions (396), and second-most passing yards (4,336) by a rookie quarterback in NFL history. Young, meanwhile, led all rookies with 7.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss, and tied for the lead among rookies with four forced fumbles. - Last season, 2019 Offensive Rookie of the Year KYLER MURRAY guided the Cardinals to a season-opening win at San Francisco against defending Defensive Rookie of the Year NICK BOSA.
- Prior to 2020, the last time defending rookies of the year met in Week 1 was Sept. 10, 1989, when the Patriots and running back JOHN STEPHENS defeated the Jets and defensive back ERIK MCMILLAN, 27-24, at Giants Stadium. The first time it happened was Sept. 21, 1975, when San Diego Chargers running back DON WOODS and Pittsburgh Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker JACK LAMBERT met at Jack Murphy Stadium, where the Steelers won, 37-0, en route to a Super Bowl X championship.
THE FOUNTAIN OF BRADY: Tampa Bay quarterback TOM BRADY, who will be 44 years and 37 days old on Thursday when the Buccaneers host Dallas in the league’s annual kickoff contest (8:20 PM ET, NBC), is expected to become the fourth-oldest individual on record (since 1932) to play in a season-opening game. - Brady also enters 2021 more than four years older than the next-oldest player on an active NFL roster, Rams tackle ANDREW WHITWORTH, who will be 39 years and 274 days old when his club hosts Chicago on Sunday Night Football (8:20 PM ET, NBC).
The five oldest individuals to play in a season-opening game, since 1932: PLAYER | AGE | DATE | TEAM | George BlandaHOF | 48 years, 5 days | Sept. 22, 1975 | Oakland Raiders | Adam Vinatieri | 46 years, 254 days | Sept. 8, 2019 | Indianapolis | John Carney | 45 years, 146 days | Sept. 13, 2009 | New Orleans | Tom Brady | 44 years, 37 days* | Sept. 9, 2021 | Tampa Bay | Morten AndersenHOF | 44 years, 24 days | Sept. 12, 2004 | Minnesota | Lou GrozaHOF | 43 years, 235 days | Sept. 17, 1967 | Cleveland Browns |
*On Thursday RAVING ABOUT THE RAVENS: The LAS VEGAS RAIDERS also welcome fans to their home, Allegiant Stadium, for the first time, hosting the BALTIMORE RAVENS on Monday Night Football (8:15 PM ET, ESPN/ABC). Since 2016 in Week 1 games, Baltimore is 5-0 and has outscored its opponents 177-26. The Ravens haven’t allowed more than 10 points in any of those five Kickoff Weekend games. OPTIMISTIC STATE OF MIND: New leaders and new outlooks will dot the NFL’s landscape this weekend. - Seven new head coaches enter the 2021 season – DAN CAMPBELL in Detroit, DAVID CULLEY in Houston, URBAN MEYER in Jacksonville, ROBERT SALEH with the New York Jets, NICK SIRIANNI with Philadelphia, ARTHUR SMITH with Atlanta and BRANDON STALEY with the Los Angeles Chargers.
- Over the last four seasons, seven head coaches in their first year with a new club have led their teams to the playoffs: RON RIVERA (Washington) and KEVIN STEFANSKI (Cleveland) in 2020, MATT LAFLEUR (Green Bay) in 2019, MATT NAGY (Chicago) and FRANK REICH (Indianapolis) in 2018, and SEAN MCVAY (Los Angeles Rams) and SEAN MCDERMOTT (Buffalo) in 2017.
- Two games this weekend will feature first-year head coaches on opposite sidelines: Meyer and Culley (1:00 PM ET, CBS) will meet in Houston on Sunday while Sirianni and Smith will battle in Atlanta (1:00 PM ET, FOX). Coaches in their first year at the reins of an NFL team have played a Week 1 game only five times over the past 38 seasons, and never twice in the same opening weekend.
The last five meetings of rookie NFL head coaches on Kickoff Weekend: DATE | WINNING COACH | TEAM | LOSING COACH | TEAM | FINAL | Sept. 7, 2014 | Bill O'Brien | Houston Texans | Jay Gruden | Washington | 17-6 | Sept. 3, 2000 | Al Groh | New York Jets | Mike Sherman | Green Bay | 20-16 | Sept. 12, 1999 | Dick Jauron | Chicago | Gunther Cunningham | Kansas City | 20-17 | Sept. 6, 1992 | Dennis Green | Minnesota | Mike Holmgren | Green Bay | 23-20 (OT) | Sept. 4, 1983 | John Robinson | L.A. Rams | Bill ParcellsHOF | N.Y. Giants | 16-6 |
SAME FACES, NEW PLACES: Several notable players were on the move since the end of the 2020 season, including quarterbacks TEDDY BRIDGEWATER (Denver), ANDY DALTON (Chicago), RYAN FITZPATRICK (Washington), JARED GOFF (Detroit), MATTHEW STAFFORD (Los Angeles Rams), TYROD TAYLOR (Houston) and CARSON WENTZ (Indianapolis); running backs JAMES CONNER (Arizona), MIKE DAVIS (Atlanta), KENYAN DRAKE (Las Vegas), PHILLIP LINDSAY (Houston) and SONY MICHEL (Los Angeles Rams); wide receivers COREY DAVIS (New York Jets), A.J. GREEN (Arizona), JULIO JONES (Tennessee) and KENNY GOLLADAY (New York Giants); tight ends HUNTER HENRY (New England) and JONNU SMITH (New England); offensive linemen ORLANDO BROWN (Kansas City), TRENT BROWN (New England), COREY LINSLEY (L.A. Chargers), ALEX MACK (San Francisco) and JOE THUNEY (Kansas City); defensive linemen TREY HENDRICKSON (Cincinnati), YANNICK NGAKOUE (Las Vegas) and J.J. WATT (Arizona); linebackers BUD DUPREE (Tennessee), JUSTIN HOUSTON (Baltimore) and HAASON REDDICK (Carolina); and defensive backs KYLE FULLER (Denver), MIKE HILTON (Cincinnati), JOHN JOHNSON (Cleveland) and PATRICK PETERSON (Minnesota). KICKOFF WEEKEND NFL SCHEDULE (All times Eastern) Thursday, September 9 | Dallas at Tampa Bay | NBC | 8:20 | | | | | Sunday, September 12 | Philadelphia at Atlanta | FOX | 1:00 | | Pittsburgh at Buffalo | CBS | 1:00 | | New York Jets at Carolina | CBS | 1:00 | | Minnesota at Cincinnati | FOX | 1:00 | | San Francisco at Detroit | FOX | 1:00 | | Jacksonville at Houston | CBS | 1:00 | | Seattle at Indianapolis | FOX | 1:00 | | Arizona at Tennessee | CBS | 1:00 | | Los Angeles Chargers at Washington | CBS | 1:00 | | Cleveland at Kansas City | CBS | 4:25 | | Miami at New England | CBS | 4:25 | | Green Bay at New Orleans (in Jacksonville) | FOX | 4:25 | | Denver at New York Giants | FOX | 4:25 | | Chicago at Los Angeles Rams | NBC | 8:20 | | | | | Monday, September 13 | Baltimore at Las Vegas | ESPN/ABC | 8:15 |
Notas de la NFL de la primera semana | LOS 32 EQUIPOS COMPARTEN OBJETIVOS SIMILARES EN LA APERTURA DE UNA TEMPORADA DE NFL CON MEJORAS “La vida comienza una vez más”, escribió F. Scott Fitzgerald, “cuando se pone fresco con el otoño.” Y una vez más en esta época del año en la National Football League, esa brisa otoñal inicial significa un flamante calendario de 18 semanas, una temporada regular de 272 partidos. Cada equipo está jugando 17 partidos de temporada regular por primera ocasión, ofreciéndoles a los aficionados una semana extra de acción. Marca el primer cambio en la estructura de la temporada desde la campaña de 1978, que marcó el comienzo de la era de la temporada regular de 16 partidos con pretemporada de cuatro juegos. La vida comenzando una vez más también significa que 32 clubes están empatados en el primer puesto, y eso significa que cada entrenador, jugador y aficionado de la NFL tiene una esperanza insaciable. ¿Por qué tanto optimismo al llegar a 2021? - A lo largo de las últimas 18 temporadas (2003-20), el número promedio de ganadores de división que no habían alcanzado la postemporada el año anterior es de 3.3, incluyendo 26 campeones divisionales que terminaron últimos el año anterior. Tanto los PITTSBURGH STEELERS (AFC Norte) como el WASHINGTON FOOTBALL TEAM (NFC Este) ganaron sus divisiones en 2020 tras perderse la postemporada en 2019, y al menos dos equipos ganaron sus divisiones la temporada siguiente a haberse perdido la postemporada en 17 de los últimos 18 años.
- Desde 1990, 5.8 equipos por año han clasificado a la postemporada tras habérsela perdido el a;o previo. A lo largo de ese lapso –una racha de 31 temporadas consecutivas– al menos cuatro equipos cada temporada han clasificado a la postemporada tras haber fallado el año anterior. Siete equipos que se perdieron la postemporada en 2019 – CHICAGO, CLEVELAND, INDIANAPOLIS, LOS ANGELES RAMS, PITTSBURGH, TAMPA BAY y WASHINGTON– lograron tal hazaña en 2020.
- Y ningún equipo ganó Super Bowls consecutivos desde los NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS de 2003-04, el periodo más largo en la historia de la NFL en el que no se repite campeón del Super Bowl.
El equipo que actualmente está amenazando con romper esa racha, los TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS, arrancaran la 102da temporada de la NFL el jueves, cuando los campeones defensores reciban a los DALLAS COWBOYS (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC). En ese partido, el mariscal de campo TOM BRADY necesita 300 yardas aéreas para unirse a DREW BREES (123 partidos) como los únicos jugadores con al menos 100 partidos en su carrera de 300 o más yardas aéreas en la historia de la NFL. Brady llega al partido del jueves con 99 actuaciones de ese tipo. Los Buccaneers, Cowboys y otros 30 equipos comienzan 2021 con un objetivo: un viaje al SoFi Stadium de Los Angeles para el Super Bowl LVI, el 13 de febrero.
ROOKIE RESPECT: En 13 temporadas consecutivas, al menos un mariscal de campo novato titularizó un partido en la primera semana, la racha más larga en la NFL desde al menos 1950. - Se espera que las dos primeras selecciones globales en el Draft 2021 –el de Clemson TREVOR LAWRENCE (Nº 1, Jacksonville) y el de BYU ZACH WILSON (Nº 2, New York Jets)– extiendan la racha el domingo. Ambos mariscales de campo jugarán fuera de casa; los Jaguars visitan a los Texans (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS) y los Jets viajan a Carolina (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS) para jugar contra su ex mariscal de campo, SAM DARNOLD, adquirido por los Panthers en un traspaso de entre temporadas. Entre los nuevos compañeros de equipo de Darnold están el esquinero novato JAYCEE HORN (seleccionado Nº 8 global), de quien se espera su debut en la NFL para Carolina.
- Los últimos dos mariscales de campo titulares de la universidad de Alabama chocarán en New England el domingo (4:25 PM, hora de New York, CBS), cuando el novato de los Patriots MAC JONES (Nº 15 global) abra su carrera en la NFL contra los Dolphins y TUA TAGOVAILOA, la quinta selección global en el Draft 2020. Ambos jugadores se sumaron al programa de Alabama en 2017 y se combinaron para llevar al Crimson Tide a tres de los últimos cuatro juegos por el campeonato nacional universitario. Se espera que en el duelo de la AFC Este también veamos el debut del ex receptor de Alabama JAYLEN WADDLE, sexta selección global en el Draft 2021.
Más destacados de este fin de semana:
- Se espera que el corredor novato de los Steelers NAJEE HARRIS (24to global) es haga su debut en la NFL cuando Pittsburgh haga un viaje corto para el domingo enfrentarse con el campeón defensor de la AFC Este Buffalo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS).
- Dos potenciales estrellas ofensiva –el ala cerrada de Atlanta KYLE PITTS (Nº 4 global en el Sorteo Universitario de la NFL 2021 –el ala cerrada seleccionado más alto en la era del Draft unificado) y el receptor de Philadelphia DEVONTA SMITH (Nº 10 global, ganador del Trofeo Heisman 2020)– estarán en bancas enfrentadas en el estadio Mercedes-Benz Stadium cuando los Falcons de Pitts reciban a los Eagles el domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, FOX).
- En Cincinnati el domingo, el receptor novato de los Bengals JA’MARR CHASE (Nº 5 global) se alineará por primera ocasión entre los profesionales con su mariscal de campo de la universidad, JOE BURROW (Nº 1 global en 2020), cuando los Bengals reciban a su ex compañero de equipo en LSU JUSTIN JEFFERSON y los Vikings (1:00 PM, hora de New York, FOX). La última vez que el trío estuvo en el mismo campo de juego fue en el Campeonato Univarsitario Nacional de 2020, cuando Burrow lanzó 463 yardas y cinco anotaciones, mientras que Chase tuvo nueve recepciones para 221 yardas con dos anotaciones, y Jefferson nueve recepciones para 106 yardas.
- Varios linieros ofensivos novatos, incluyendo el tackle de los Lions PENEI SEWELL (Nº 7 global), el tackle de los Chargers RASHAWN SLATER (Nº 13), el guardia de los Jets ALIJAH VERA-TUCKER (Nº 14) y el tackle de Las Vegas ALEX LEATHERWOOD (Nº 17), estarán alegadamente debutando en la NFL el domingo.
- En el costado defensivo, se espera que los apoyadores novatos MICAH PARSONS (Nº 12 global, Dallas), ZAVEN COLLINS (Nº 16, Arizona) y JAMIN DAVIS (Nº 19, Washington) estén en el centro de sus respectivas defensivas este fin de semana, mientras que el esquinero PAT SURTAIN (Nº 9, Denver) y el ala defensiva KWITY PAYE (Nº 21, Indianapolis) también estarán haciendo sus respectivos debuts en la NFL.
MOVIMIENTO JOVEN EN LA AFC ESTE. Los cuatro mariscales de campo que se espera estén titularizando en la AFC Este este fin de semana, incluyendo a TUA TAGOVAILOA (23 años de edad) y a MAC JONES (23), quienes chocan en New England el domingo (4:25 PM, hora de New York, CBS), tienen 26 años o menos edad al ingresar en la temporada. Si JOSH ALLEN (25) titulariza para Buffalo y ZACH WILSON (22) lo hace para los Jets, eso marcará la primera vez en 36 años que cuatro mariscales de campo titulares en la misma división son menores a 26 al inicio de una temporada. En 1985, TONY EASON (25), de New England, el miembro del Salón de la Fama DAN MARINO (23), de Miami, KEN O’BRIEN (24), de los Jets y ART SCHLICHTER (25), de Indianapolis, comenzaron el año bajo centro en la AFC Este. Los Dolphins, Jets y Patriots alcanzaron la postemporada aquella vez, y New England llegó hasta el Super Bowl XX.
CONSISTENTEMENTE PRODUCTIVOS. Cuando Green Bay se enfrente con New Orleans el domingo en un duelo entre dos ganadores de división de la NFC 2020 (4:25 PM, hora de New York, FOX, en Jacksonville), dos de los jugadores más consistentemente productivos jugadores de la NFL estarán en acción. Solamente seis individuos acarrearon al menos 700 yardas en cada una de los últimos tres temporadas (2018-20), incluyendo al de los Packers AARON JONES y al de los Saints ALVIN KAMARA.
Los jugadores con al menos 700 yardas por tierra en cada una de las últimas tres temporadas:
JUGADOR | EQUIPO | YARDAS TERRESTRES (2018-20) | YARDAS DESDE LA LÍNEA DE GOLPEO (2018-20) | Nick Chubb | Cleveland | 3,557 | 4,134 | Gus Edwards | Baltimore | 2,152 | 2,346 | Ezekiel Elliott | Dallas | 3,770 | 5,095 | Derrick Henry | Tennessee | 4,626 | 5,045 | Aaron Jones | Green Bay | 2,916 | 3,951 | Alvin Kamara | New Orleans | 2,612 | 4,610
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CHOCAN EQUIPOS QUE CLASIFICARON. Ese duelo Packers-Saints es uno de los cinco partidos de la primera semana que tiene dos equipos que alcanzaron la postemporada en 2020. - Incluida en ese grupo está la revancha del partido Divisional de la AFC entre los CLEVELAND BROWNS y los KANSAS CITY CHIEFS el domingo (4:25 PM, CBS). Contabilizando también postemporada, el entrenador en jefe de los Chiefs, ANDY REID, está 8-0 contra los Browns, 4-0 contra Philadelphia y 4-0 contra Kansas City. Kansas City derrotó a Cleveland 22-17 en la postemporada pasada y se convirtió en el primer equipo desde los PHILADELPHIA EAGLES de 2002-04, de Reid, en ser anfitriones en tres partidos de campeonato consecutivos.
- Tanto los Packers como los Chiefs estarán buscando extender la racha de liga ganadora activa más larga en el Fin de semana inaugural. Cada club ganó su primer partido en seis temporadas consecutivas.
- Otro destacado en el Fin de semana inaugural es la visita de SEATTLE SEAHAWKS a INDIANAPOLIS COLTS el domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, FOX). Incluyendo la postemporada, Seattle ganó 12 de sus últimos 13 partidos jugando en zona horaria del este de los EE.UU. En esos 13 partidos, el mariscal de campo RUSSELL WILSON, está 12-1, con un índice de pasador de 117.9, 3,598 yardas aéreas, 26 pases anotadores y cinco intercepciones.
- En un choque tempranero destacado del domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS), los PITTSBURGH STEELERS –terceros en la NFL el año pasado en defensiva total (305.8 yardas por partido) y segundo en puntos permitidos (19.5 por partido)– enfrentan a los BUFFALO BILLS, cuya ofensiva fue la segunda en la liga tanto en yardas por partido (396.4) como en puntos por juego (31.3).
- Los LOS ANGELES RAMS recibirán aficionados en SoFi Stadium por primera ocasión cuando los CHICAGO BEARS los visiten en el clásico de domingo en la noche Sunday Night Football (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC). Chicago tiene 55 victorias en el Fin de semana inaugural, la segunda mayor cantidad en la historia de la NFL, mientras que los Rams ganaron cuatro partidos consecutivos de primera semana.
NOVATOS DEL AÑO REINANTES. Por segunda temporada consecutiva y cuarta vez en la historia de la NFL, los novatos del año de Associated Press reinantes se verán las caras en el Fin de semana inaugural. En FedExField el domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS), el Novato ofensivo del Año 2020, JUSTIN HERBERT, estará al frente de los Chargers en su entrenamiento contra el Novato Defensivo del Año 2020, CHASE YOUNG, y Washington. La temporada pasada, Herbert registró las mayores cantidades de pases anotadores (31) y de pases completos (396), y la segunda mayor cantidad de yardas aéreas (4,336) por un mariscal de campo novato en la historia de la NFL. Young, en tanto, lideró a todos los novatos con 7.5 capturas y 10 tackleadas para pérdida de yardas, e igualó el liderazgo lead entre los novatos con cuatro balones sueltos forzados.
- La temporada pasada, el Novato ofensivo del Año 2019, KYLER MURRAY, llevó a los Cardinals al triunfo en la apertura de campaña en San Francisco, en un partido contra el Novato defensivo del Año defensor, NICK BOSA.
- Antes de 2020, la última vez que ambos novatos del año se vieron las caras en la primera semana fue el 10 de septiembre de 1989, cuando los Patriots y el corredor JOHN STEPHENS derrotaron a los Jets y al jugador de secundaria ERIK MCMILLAN 27-24 en Giants Stadium. La primera vez que esto sucedió fue el 21 de septiembre de 1975, cuando el corredor de San Diego Chargers DON WOODS y el apoyador a la postre miembro del Salón de la Fama de Pittsburgh JACK LAMBERT se enfrentaron en Jack Murphy Stadium, donde los Steelers ganaron 37-0 en su camino al campeonato en el Super Bowl X.
LA FONTANA DE BRADY. Se espera que el mariscal de campo de Tampa Bay TOM BRADY, que tendrá 44 años y 37 días de edad el jueves, cuando los Buccaneers reciban a Dallas en el duelo que dará oficialmente inicio a la temporada (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC), se convierta en el cuarto jugador de mayor edad (desde 1932) en jugar un partido de apertura de temporada.
- Brady también ingresa a 2021 más de cuatro años más grande que el siguiente jugador de mayor edad en un plantel activo de la NFL, el tackle de los Rams ANDREW WHITWORTH, que tendrá 39 años y 274 días de edad cuando su club reciba a Chicago el domingo en la noche (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC).
Los cinco jugadores de mayor edad que juegan en un partido de apertura de temporada desde 1932:JUGADOR | EDAD | FECHA | EQUIPO | George BlandaHOF | 48 años, 5 días | 22 de sep. de 1975 | Oakland Raiders | Adam Vinatieri | 46 años, 254 días | 8 de sep. de 2019 | Indianapolis | John Carney | 45 años, 146 días | 13 de sep. de 2009 | New Orleans | Tom Brady | 44 años, 37 días* | 9 de sep. de 2021 | Tampa Bay | Morten AndersenHOF | 44 años, 24 días | 12 de sep. de 2004 | Minnesota | Lou GrozaHOF | 43 años, 235 días | 17 de sep. de 1967 | Cleveland Browns |
*el jueves
NADIE ARRANCA COMO LOS RAVENS. Los LAS VEGAS RAIDERS también reciben a los aficionados en su hogar, Allegiant Stadium, por primera ocasión, en su partido contra los BALTIMORE RAVENS en el clásico de lunes en le noche Monday Night Football (8:15 PM, hora de New York, ESPN/ABC). Desde 2016 en partidos de primera semana, Baltimore está 5-0 y aventajó a sus oponentes 177-26 en esos duelos. Los Ravens no han permitido más de 10 puntos en cualquiera de esos cinco partidos de Fin de semana inaugural.
OPTIMISMO ANTE TODO. Nuevos líderes y apariencias estarán en el panorama de la NFL este fin de semana. - Siete nuevos entrenadores en jefe ingresan en la temporada 2021: DAN CAMPBELL en Detroit, DAVID CULLEY en Houston, URBAN MEYER en Jacksonville, ROBERT SALEH con los New York Jets, NICK SIRIANNI con Philadelphia, ARTHUR SMITH con Atlanta y BRANDON STALEY con los Los Angeles Chargers.
- A lo largo de las últimas cuatro temporadas, siete entrenadores en jefe en su primer año con nuevo club llevaron a sus equipos hasta la postemporada: RON RIVERA (Washington) y KEVIN STEFANSKI (Cleveland) en 2020, MATT LAFLEUR (Green Bay) en 2019, MATT NAGY (Chicago) y FRANK REICH (Indianapolis) en 2018, y SEAN MCVAY (Los Angeles Rams) y SEAN MCDERMOTT (Buffalo) en 2017.
- Dos partidos de este fin de semana tendrán entrenadores en jefe de primer año en bancas opuestas: Meyer y Culley (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS) se encontrarán en Houston el domingo, mientras Sirianni y Smith batallarán en Atlanta (1:00 PM, hora de New York, FOX). Entrenadores en sus respectivos primeros años al mando de un equipo de la NFL se enfrentaron en un partido de primera semana apenas cinco veces a lo largo de las últimas 38 temporadas, y nunca dos veces en el mismo fin de semana inaugural.
Los últimos cinco encuentros de entrenadores en jefe novatos de la NFL en el Fin de semana inaugural:
FECHA | ENTRENADOR GANADOR | EQUIPO | ENTRENADOR MPERDEDOR | EQUIPO | FINAL | 7 de sep. de 2014 | Bill O'Brien | Houston Texans | Jay Gruden | Washington | 17-6 | 3 de sep. de 2000 | Al Groh | New York Jets | Mike Sherman | Green Bay | 20-16 | 12 de sep. de 1999 | Dick Jauron | Chicago | Gunther Cunningham | Kansas City | 20-17 | 6 de sep. de 1992 | Dennis Green | Minnesota | Mike Holmgren | Green Bay | 23-20 (prórroga) | 4 de sep. de 1983 | John Robinson | L.A. Rams | Bill ParcellsHOF | N.Y. Giants | 16-6 |
MISMAS CARAS, NUEVOS LUGARES. Varios jugadores notables cambiaron de equipo desde el final de la temporada 2020, incluyendo a los mariscales de campo TEDDY BRIDGEWATER (Denver), ANDY DALTON (Chicago), RYAN FITZPATRICK (Washington), JARED GOFF (Detroit), MATTHEW STAFFORD (Los Angeles Rams), TYROD TAYLOR (Houston) y CARSON WENTZ (Indianapolis); los corredores JAMES CONNER (Arizona), MIKE DAVIS (Atlanta), KENYAN DRAKE (Las Vegas), PHILLIP LINDSAY (Houston) y SONY MICHEL (Los Angeles Rams); los receptores COREY DAVIS (New York Jets), A.J. GREEN (Arizona), JULIO JONES (Tennessee) y KENNY GOLLADAY (New York Giants); los alas cerradas HUNTER HENRY (New England) y JONNU SMITH (New England); los linieros ofensivos ORLANDO BROWN (Kansas City), TRENT BROWN (New England), COREY LINSLEY (L.A. Chargers), ALEX MACK (San Francisco) y JOE THUNEY (Kansas City); los linieros defensivos TREY HENDRICKSON (Cincinnati), YANNICK NGAKOUE (Las Vegas) y J.J. WATT (Arizona); apoyadores BUD DUPREE (Tennessee), JUSTIN HOUSTON (Baltimore) y HAASON REDDICK (Carolina); y los jugadores de secundaria KYLE FULLER (Denver), MIKE HILTON (Cincinnati), JOHN JOHNSON(Cleveland) y PATRICK PETERSON (Minnesota). Para más acerca de NFL Communications, visite NFLCommunications.com y siga @NFL345.
De interés - Fin de semana inaugural | SÚPER TITULARES. La historia indica que la mejor manera para que un equipo arranque su marcha hacia un campeonato en el Super Bowl es ganando en la primera semana. Los 55 ganadores del Super Bowl tienen marca de 44-10-1 en partidos del Fin de semana inaugural de sus campañas de campeón. Los TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS, campeones del Super Bowl LV, que reciben a los DALLAS COWBOYS en el Partido inaugural anual de temporada en horario central, el jueves (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC), se convirtieron en los primeros eventuales campeones del Super Bowl que perdieron su partido de apertura de campaña de campeón desde New England en 2014. Los KANSAS CITY CHIEFS, que protagonizaron los últimos dos Super Bowls, reciben a los CLEVELAND BROWNS en una revancha del duelo Divisional de la AFC el domingo (4:25 PM, hora de New York, CBS). Kansas City ganó sus últimos seis partidos de Fin de semana inaugural, la racha más larga activa en la AFC que está empatada para la más larga activa en la NFL (Green Bay). Desde 1978, cuando la NFL adoptó su cronograma de 16 partidos, y excluyendo la temporada abreviada de 1982, los equipos salieron victoriosos de sus arranques de campaña tienen más del doble de chances de alcanzar la postemporada que aquellos que pierden el primer juego del año. Esta temporada tendrá un calendario de 17 partidos para cada equipo por primera vez en la historia. - De los 633 equipos que ganaron en las aperturas…333 clasificaron a la postemporada (204 ganaron títulos divisionales).
- De los 632 equipos que perdieron en las aperturas…151 clasificaron a la postemporada (86 ganaron títulos divisionales).
Nota: hay un número diferente de equipos ganadores y perdedores en partidos de apertura de temporada debido al hecho que la NFL tuvo 31 equipos en cada temporada en el lapso 1999-2001, lo que crea un número impar para el número total de resultados. En 2020, los 14 equipos que alcanzaron la postemporada tuvieron marca de 11-3 en el Fin de semana inaugural, con los a la postre ocho ganadores de división acumulando un perfecto 8-0.
-- NFL -- RACHAS DE APERTURA. Los Chiefs no son el único equipo que brilló en aperturas. Al calce, un compilado de otros hitos y rachas notables activos en el Fin de semana inaugural de la NFL:
- Los BALTIMORE RAVENS, que en primera semana visitan a los LAS VEGAS RAIDERS en el clásico de lunes en la noche Monday Night Football (8:15 PM, hora de New York, ESPN/ABC), ganaron sus últimos cinco partidos en el Fin de semana inaugural, la segunda racha activa más larga en la AFC. Desde 2016, Baltimore aventajó a sus oponentes 177-26 en el Fin de semana inaugural y no permitió más de 10 puntos en cualquier de sus anteriores cinco partidos de primera semana.
- Los campeones defensores de la NFC Norte, los GREEN BAY PACKERS, abren su temporada fuera de casa el domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, FOX) contra los campeones defensores reinantes de la NFC Sur, los NEW ORLEANS SAINTS, en el TIAA Bank Field de Jacksonville. Los Packers ganaron 58 partidos en el Fin de semana inaugural, la mayor cantidad en la NFL. Green Bay ganó sus últimos seis juegos en el Fin de semana inaugural, empatando con Kansas City para la racha más larga activa en la NFL.
- Los CHICAGO BEARS visitan en la primera semana a los LOS ANGELES RAMS en el clásico de domingo en la noche Sunday Night Football (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC). Chicago tiene 55 victorias en el Fin de semana inaugural, la segunda mayor cantidad en la NFL, mientras que los Rams ganaron cuatro juegos consecutivos de primera semana, la segunda racha activa más larga en la NFC.
-- NFL -- ENCIÉNDEME. Algunos jugadores brillaron en aperturas. Al calce, ejemplos de desempeños individuales notables en el Fin de semana inaugural de la NFL:
- El mariscal de campo de Tampa Bay TOM BRADY tiene 39 pases anotadores y 4,932 yardas aéreas en los 18 partidos en Fin de semana inaugural de su carrera, solamente detrás de DREW BREES (41 pases anotadores y 5,566 yardas aéreas) para la mayor cantidad en la historia de la NFL en el Fin de semana inaugural en ambas categorías.
- El ala cerrada de Tampa Bay ROB GRONKOWSKI tiene ocho recepciones anotadoras en ocho partidos en el Fin de semana inaugural de su carrera, la segunda mayor cantidad en la historia por un ala cerrada, solamente detrás de WILLIE FRAZIER (nueve recepciones anotadoras).
- El receptor de Tennessee JULIO JONES tiene 1,001 yardas recibiendo en 10 partidos en Fin de semana inaugural de su carrera y es uno de los 11 jugadores en la historia de la liga con al menos 1,000 yardas recibiendo en su carrera en aperturas de temporada. Si Jones, que tuvo nueve recepciones para 157 yardas con Atlanta el año pasado en el Fin de semana inaugural, registra al menos 99 yardas recibiendo el domingo contra Arizona en su debut con los Titans (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS), se convertirá en el sexto jugador que llega a las 1,100 yardas recibiendo en su carrera en juegos del Fin de semana inaugural.
Jones también tiene 67 recepciones en su carrera en primera semana y puede convertirse en el noveno jugador en la historia de la liga que alcanza las 75 recepciones en su carrera en partidos del Fin de semana inaugural.
- El receptor de los Los Angeles Rams DESEAN JACKSON tiene seis partidos en su carrera con al menos 100 yardas recibiendo en primera semana, empatando la mayor cantidad en la historia. Con al menos 100 yardas recibiendo contra Chicago el domingo en la noche (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC), Jackson superaría al miembro del Salón de la Fama MICHAEL IRVIN (seis) para la mayor cantidad de partidos con 100 yardas recibiendo en el Fin de semana inaugural en la historia de la NFL.
- Incluyendo una en la primera semana del año pasado, con Indianapolis, el apoyador de Baltimore JUSTIN HOUSTON tiene 11 capturas en los nueve partidos de apertura de campaña en su carrera, empatando la sexta mayor cantidad en el Fin de semana inaugural desde 1982, cuando la captura individual se convirtió en estadística oficial. Con al menos dos capturas en su debut con los Ravens en Las Vegas en el clásico de lunes en la noche Monday Night Football (8:15 PM, hora de New York, ESPN), Houston superaría al miembro del Salón de la Fama LAWRENCE TAYLOR (12.5 capturas en 12 partidos) para la cuarta mayor cantidad en duelos de primera semana.
-- NFL -- TITULARES DE ENTRADA. Se anticipa que el mariscal de campo novato de Jacksonville, TREVOR LAWRENCE, selección global Nº 1 en el Sorteo Universitario de la NFL 2021, el mariscal de campo novato de los New York Jets, ZACH WILSON (Nº 2), y el mariscal de campo novato de New England, MAC JONES (Nº 15), realicen sus respectivas primeras titularidades de sus carreras el domingo, cuando Jacksonville viaje a Houston (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS), los Jets visiten Carolina (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS) y New England reciba a Miami (4:25 PM, hora de New York, CBS).
Con alguno de ellos titularizando, al menos un mariscal de campo novato habrá sido titular en una primera semana en 14 temporadas consecutivas, extendiendo la racha más larga en la NFL desde al menos 1950.
Se espera que esta temporada sea como la de 2012 (cinco mariscales de campo novatos) como las únicas temporadas desde 1970 en las que al menos tres mariscales de campo novatos titularizan en la primera semana. Puede también convertirse en la primera vez que más de un mariscal de campo novato titularizan cada uno en la primera semana desde 2016 (DAK PRESCOTT y CARSON WENTZ).
Los mariscales de campo novato que titularizan en la primera semana desde 2008:
TEMPORADA | MARISCAL DE CAMPO | EQUIPO | MARCA COMO TITULAR SIENDO NOVATO | 2008 | Joe Flacco | Baltimore | 11-5 | 2008 | Matt Ryan | Atlanta | 11-5 | 2009 | Mark Sánchez | New York Jets | 8-7 | 2009 | Matthew Stafford* | Detroit | 2-8 | 2010 | Sam Bradford* | St. Louis Rams | 7-9 | 2011 | Andy Dalton | Cincinnati | 9-7 | 2011 | Cam Newton* | Carolina | 6-10 | 2012 | Robert Griffin III | Washington | 9-6 | 2012 | Andrew Luck* | Indianapolis | 11-5 | 2012 | Ryan Tannehill | Miami | 7-9 | 2012 | Brandon Weeden | Cleveland | 5-10 | 2012 | Russell Wilson | Seattle | 11-5 | 2013 | EJ Manuel | Buffalo | 4-6 | 2013 | Geno Smith | New York Jets | 8-8 | 2014 | Derek Carr | Oakland Raiders | 3-13 | 2015 | Marcus Mariota | Tennessee | 3-9 | 2015 | Jameis Winston* | Tampa Bay | 6-10 | 2016 | Dak Prescott | Dallas | 13-3 | 2016 | Carson Wentz | Philadelphia | 7-9 | 2017 | DeShone Kizer | Cleveland | 0-15 | 2018 | Sam Darnold | New York Jets | 4-9 | 2019 | Kyler Murray* | Arizona | 5-10-1 | 2020 | Joe Burrow* | Cincinnati | 2-7-1 | 2021 | Mac Jones^ | New England | - | 2021 | Trevor Lawrence*^ | Jacksonville | - | 2021 | Zach Wilson^ | New York Jets | - | *Seleccionado Nº 1 global | | | | ^Se anticipa que sea titular en la primera semana | | | |
-- NFL --
PERSIGUIENDO LA HISTORIA. El mariscal de campo de Tampa Bay TOM BRADY ingresa a su 22da temporada en la NFL como el líder histórico de la liga en pases anotadores (581) y está al alcance de la marca en la historia de la liga en yardas aéreas. Brady tiene 79,204 yardas aéreas en su carrera, solamente detrás de DREW BREES (80,358).
Los jugadores con las mayores cantidades de yardas aéreas en sus carreras en la historia de la NFL: JUGADOR | EQUIPO(S) | YARDAS AÉREAS | Drew Brees | San Diego Chargers, New Orleans | 80,358 | Tom Brady | New England, Tampa Bay | 79,204 |
Brady también ingresa a la temporada con 99 partidos en su carrera con al menos 300 yardas aéreas. Con al menos 300 yardas aéreas el jueves contra Dallas en el Partido inaugural anual de temporada, en horario central (8:20 PM, hora de New York, NBC), Brady se sumará a Brees (123 partidos), como los únicos jugadores en la historia con al menos 300 yardas aéreas en 100 partidos de su carrera.
Los jugadores con las mayores cantidades de partidos en sus carreras con al menos 300 yardas aéreas en la historia de la NFL: JUGADOR | EQUIPO(S) | JUEGOS CON 300 O MÁS YARDAS AÉREAS | Drew Brees | San Diego Chargers, New Orleans | 123 | Tom Brady | New England, Tampa Bay | 99 |
Este jueves también marcará la 300ma titularidad en temporada regular de la carrera de Brady, convirtiéndolo en el primer mariscal de campo en la historia de la liga que alcanza tal hito.
Otros mariscales de campo que pueden alcanzar hitos de carrera en rubros de pase en la primera semana: - Con al menos 231 yardas aéreas el domingo contra New Orleans (4:25 PM, hora de New York, FOX), el mariscal de campo de Green Bay y Jugador más valioso (MVP, por sus siglas en inglés) reinante, AARON RODGERS (51,245 yardas aéreas en su carrera), puede superar al miembro del Salón de la Fama JOHN ELWAY (51,475) para la décima mayor cantidad de yardas aéreas en la historia de la NFL.
- Con al menos cuatro pases anotadores el domingo en Buffalo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS), el mariscal de campo de Pittsburgh BEN ROETHLISBERGER (396 pases anotadores en su carrera) puede convertirse en el octavo jugador en la historia con 400 pases anotadores en su carrera.
-- NFL --
KELCE EN APERTURAS. La temporada pasada, el ala cerrada de Kansas City TRAVIS KELCE se ubicó segundo en la liga con 1,416 yardas recibiendo, la mayor cantidad en la historia por un ala cerrada en una sola temporada. También se convirtió en el primer ala cerrada en la historia de la NFL en registrar al menos 1,200 yardas recibiendo en tres temporadas distintas. En los 111 partidos de su carrera, Kelce tiene 7,881 yardas recibiendo, la décima mayor cantidad en la historia entre los alas cerradas.
Con al menos 119 yardas recibiendo contra Cleveland el domingo (4:25 PM, hora de New York, CBS), Kelce se convertirá en el ala cerrada que más velozmente (112 partidos) alcanza las 8,000 yardas recibiendo en su carrera en la historia de la NFL, superando a ROB GRONKOWSKI (120 partidos).
Los alas cerradas que alcanzan las 8,000 yardas recibiendo en su carrera en la menor cantidad de partidos en la historia de la NFL:
JUGADOR | EQUIPO(S) | JUEGOS PARA ALCANZAR LAS 8,000 YARDAS RECIBIENDO | | | | | | Rob Gronkowski | New England, Tampa Bay | 120 | | | | | | Antonio Gates | San Diego Chargers | 137 | | | | | | Jason Witten | Dallas | 147 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Travis Kelce | Kansas City | 111* | | | | | | *Tiene 7,881 yardas recibiendo llegando al domingo | | | | | | | |
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Kelce también ingresa en esta temporada con 48 recepciones anotadoras en su carrera. Con al menos dos recepciones anotadoras el domingo, se convertirá en el quinto ala cerrada más rápido que alcanza las 50 recepciones anotadoras en su carrera, superando a VERNON DAVIS (115 partidos).
Los alas cerradas que alcanzaron las 50 recepciones anotadoras en sus carreras en las menores cantidades de partidos en la historia de la NFL: JUGADOR | EQUIPO | JUEGOS PARA LLEGAR A LAS 50 RECEPCIONES ANOTADORAS | | | | | | | | Rob Gronkowski | New England | 59 | | | | | | | | Jimmy Graham | New Orleans | 73 | | | | | | | | Antonio Gates | San Diego Chargers | 92 | | | | | | | | Jerry Smith | Washington | 100 | | | | | | | | Vernon Davis | San Francisco | 115 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Travis Kelce | Kansas City | 111* | | | | | | | | *Tiene 48 recepciones anotadoras llegando al domingo | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
-- NFL --
DEBUT CON LOS TITANS. El receptor de Tennessee JULIO JONES ingresa a su primer año como jugador de la franquicia con 848 recepciones para 12,896 yardas recibiendo y 60 recepciones anotadoras en los 135 partidos de su carrera. Jones necesita dos recepciones el domingo contra Arizona (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS) para convertirse en el segundo jugador más rápido (136 partidos) para alcanzar las 850 recepciones en la historia de la NFL, superando al miembro del Salón de la Fama MARVIN HARRISON (140 partidos).
Los jugadores que alcanzaron las 850 recepciones en sus carreras en las menores cantidades de partidos en la historia de la NFL: JUGADOR | EQUIPO(S) | JUEGOS PARA ALCANZAR LAS 850 RECEPCIONES | Antonio Brown | Pittsburgh, New England, Tampa Bay | 133 | Marvin HarrisonHOF | Indianapolis | 140 | Andre Johnson | Houston Texans | 142 | | | | Julio Jones | Atlanta | 135* | *Tiene 848 recepciones llegando al domingo | | |
Con al menos 104 yardas recibiendo, Jones puede también convertirse en el jugador que más rápido en la historia alcanza las 13,000 yardas recibiendo en su carrera, superando al miembro del Salón de la Fama JERRY RICE (154 partidos).
Adicionalmente, Jones ingresa a esta temporada con al menos 100 yardas recibiendo en los 58 partidos en su carrera. Con al menos 100 yardas recibiendo el domingo, empatará al miembro del Salón de la Fama MARVIN HARRISON (59 partidos) para la tercera mayor cantidad de tales desempeños en la historia de la NFL.
Los jugadores con las mayores cantidades de partidos con al menos 100 yardas recibiendo en la historia de la NFL: JUGADOR | EQUIPO(S) | JUEGOS CON 100 O MÁS YARDAS RECIBIENDO | Jerry RiceHOF | San Francisco, Oakland, Seattle | 76 | Randy MossHOF | Minnesota, Oakland, New England | 64 | Marvin HarrisonHOF | Indianapolis | 59 | Julio Jones | Atlanta | 58* | *Activo | | |
-- NFL --
CORREDORES DOBLE AMENAZA. El corredor de Carolina CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY totalizó 5,817 yardas desde la línea de golpeo (3,145 acarreando, 2,672 recibiendo) y 45 anotaciones (29 acarreando, 16 recibiendo) en sus primeras cuatro temporadas, mientras que también registró nueve partidos anotando tanto por tierra como también recibiendo, la mayor cantidad en la historia por un jugador a lo largo de sus primeras cuatro temporadas. Con anotaciones tanto terrestre como mediante recepción contra los Jets el domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS), McCaffrey superará a CHUCK FOREMAN (nueve partidos) para la mayor cantidad de tales desempeños por un jugador a lo largo de sus primeras cinco temporadas en la historia de la NFL. El corredor de New Orleans ALVIN KAMARA, que está también ingresando en su quinta temporada, tiene ocho de tales partidos en su carrera y puede igualar a Foreman cuando New Orleans choque contra Green Bay el domingo (4:25 PM, hora de New York, FOX).
Los jugadores con las mayores cantidades de partidos con anotaciones tanto terrestre como mediante recepción en sus primeras cinco temporadas en la historia de la NFL: JUGADOR | EQUIPO | JUEGOS | Chuck Foreman | Minnesota | 9 | Christian McCaffrey | Carolina | 9* | Abner Haynes | Dallas Texans/Kansas City Chiefs | 8 | Alvin Kamara | New Orleans | 8* | *Ingresando en la quinto temporada | | |
-- NFL --
NADA MÁS QUE NOVATOS. El Novato ofensivo del año de Associated Press 2020, ewl mariscal de campo de los Los Angeles Chargers JUSTIN HERBERT, y el Novato defensivo del año de Associated Press 2020, el ala defensiva de Washington CHASE YOUNG, se encontrarán en la primera semana, cuando los Chargers visiten al Washington Football Team el domingo (1:00 PM, hora de New York, CBS). Marcará la cuarta vez en la historia de la NFL, y la segunda temporada consecutiva, que los dos novatos del año reinantes se encuentran en el Fin de semana inaugural. En 2020, el mariscal de campo de Arizona KYLER MURRAY y el liniero defensivo de San Francisco NICK BOSA se vieron las caras en la primera semana.
Duelos del Fin de semana inaugural que enfrentó a los Novatos del año de Associated Press tanto ofensivo como defensivo en la historia de la NFL: TEMPORADA | OFENSIVO DEL AÑO REINANTE (EQUIPO) | OFENSIVO DEL AÑO REINANTE (EQUIPO) | RESULTADO DE LA PRIMERA SEMANA | 2021 | QB Justin Herbert (L.A. Chargers) | DE Chase Young (Washington) | ??? | 2020 | QB Kyler Murray (Arizona) | DL Nick Bosa (San Francisco) | Arizona 24, San Francisco 20 | 1989 | RB John Stephens (New England) | DB Erik McMillan (N.Y. Jets) | New England 27, New York Jets 24 | 1975 | RB Don Woods (San Diego Chargers) | LB Jack LambertHOF (Pittsburgh) | PIT 37, San Diego 0 |
Para más acerca de NFL Communication s, visite NFLCommunications.com y siga @NFL345. Seven From Sunday - Kickoff Weekend | A look at seven statistical highlights from games played during the 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. ET windows on Sunday, September 12, the first week of the 2021 season.
- With two games remaining in Week 1, eight games have been within one score (eight points) in the fourth quarter while two teams overcame deficits of at least 10 points to win: the KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (12 points) and PITTSBURGH STEELERS (10).
For the third time in the past four seasons, a game on Kickoff Weekend has gone to overtime. Cincinnati defeated Minnesota, 27-24, in overtime and marked the first regular-season game in NFL history with a game-tying score with no time remaining in regulation and a game-winning score with no time remaining in overtime. - Jacksonville rookie quarterback TREVOR LAWRENCE, the No. 1 overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft, New York Jets rookie quarterback ZACH WILSON (No. 2), and New England rookie quarterback MAC JONES (No. 15) each made their first career starts on Kickoff Weekend. At least one rookie quarterback has started in Week 1 in 14 consecutive seasons, the longest streak in the NFL since at least 1950.
With three rookie quarterbacks starting in Week 1, 2021 joined the 2012 season (five rookie quarterbacks) as the only seasons since 1970 in which at least three rookie quarterbacks started in Week 1.
Four rookie quarterbacks – Jones, San Francisco's TREY LANCE, Lawrence and Wilson – each threw their first-career touchdown passes in Week 1. It marks the most rookie quarterbacks to throw their first career touchdown passes in Week 1 since 1970, surpassing the 2012 (ROBERT GRIFFIN III, ANDREW LUCK and RUSSELL WILSON) and 1971 (SCOTT HUNTER, ARCHIE MANNING and JIM PLUNKETT) seasons.
Seven first- or second-year quarterbacks – Cincinnati's JOE BURROW, the Los Angeles Chargers' JUSTIN HERBERT, Philadelphia's JALEN HURTS, Jones, Lawrence, Miami's TUA TAGOVAILOA and Wilson – each started on Kickoff Weekend, tied with the 2013 and 2000 seasons for the second-most such starting quarterbacks in a season-opening week in the Super Bowl era. Only the 2012 season (10 quarterbacks) had more.
Lawrence passed for 332 yards in his NFL debut, the third-most passing yards by a No. 1 overall pick in his first career start in the Super Bowl era. Only CAM NEWTON (422 passing yards) and VINNY TESTAVERDE (369) had more.
Three rookie wide receivers that were each selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft – Cincinnati's JA'MARR CHASE (No. 5 overall), Miami's JAYLEN WADDLE (No. 6) and Philadelphia's DEVONTA SMITH (No. 10) – each recorded their first career touchdown receptions on Kickoff Weekend.
This is the first season in the common-draft era in which three rookie wide receivers that were each selected in the first round of the NFL Draft registered a touchdown reception in Week 1.
- With two games remaining, four quarterbacks – New Orleans' JAMEIS WINSTON (five touchdown passes), Tampa Bay's TOM BRADY (four), Arizona's KYLER MURRAY (four) and Seattle's RUSSELL WILSON (four) – have thrown at least four touchdown passes in Week 1. This is the first season in which at least four quarterbacks have registered four-or-more touchdown passes in Week 1 since 1970.
With two games remaining, 15 quarterbacks have recorded a passer rating of 100-or-higher in Week 1 (minimum 10 attempts), the second-most on Kickoff Weekend in NFL history, trailing only the 2018 season (18 quarterbacks).
- Kansas City quarterback PATRICK MAHOMES passed for 337 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions for a 131.4 rating, while tight end TRAVIS KELCE had 76 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in the Chiefs' 33-29 win over Cleveland.
Making his 47th career start in Week 1, Mahomes has 14,489 career passing yards and surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer KURT WARNER (14,372) for the most passing yards by a player in his first 50 career starts in NFL history.
In 47 career starts, Mahomes has 117 touchdown passes and surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer DAN MARINO (116 touchdown passes) for the most touchdown passes by a player in his first 50 career starts in league annals.
Kelce recorded his 50th career touchdown reception in his 112th career game, surpassing VERNON DAVIS (115) as the fifth-fastest tight end to reach 50 touchdown receptions in NFL history.
- Arizona quarterback KYLER MURRAY passed for 289 yards with a career-high four touchdowns and one interception for a 121.0 rating and added a rushing touchdown, while linebacker CHANDLER JONES totaled a career-high five sacks with two forced fumbles in the Cardinals' 38-13 win at Tennessee.
Murray has four career games with at least three touchdown passes and one rushing touchdown, tied with JOSH ALLEN (four games) and JACK KEMP (four) for the most such games by a player in his first three seasons in NFL history.
Jones is the third player to record at least five sacks in a Week 1 game since 1982, when the individual sack became an official statistic, joining Pro Football Hall of Famer DERRICK THOMAS (six sacks in 1998) and BILL GAY (5.5 sacks in 1983). He is the sixth player to record at least five sacks and two forced in a single game since 2002.
Jones, who had two games (Weeks 7 and 16) with four sacks during the 2019 season, is the fourth player since 1982 with three career games with at least four sacks, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers DERRICK THOMAS (four games) and REGGIE WHITE (three), as well as LESLIE O'NEAL (four).
- Seattle quarterback RUSSELL WILSON recorded four touchdown passes with zero interceptions and a 152.3 rating in the Seahawks' 28-16 win at Indianapolis.
Wilson has 11 career games with at least four touchdown passes and zero interceptions, surpassing TOM BRADY (10 games), Pro Football Hall of Famer PEYTON MANNING (10) and AARON RODGERS (10) for the most such games by a player in his first 10 seasons in league annals.
- Other notable performances from Sunday include:
- Carolina running back CHRISTIAN MCCAFFREY recorded nine receptions and 187 scrimmage yards (98 rushing, 89 receiving) in the Panthers' 19-14 win over the New York Jets.
McCaffrey has seven career games with at least 75 rushing yards and 75 receiving yards, surpassing Pro Football Hall of Famer WALTER PAYTON (six games) for the third-most such games in the Super Bowl era. Only Pro Football Hall of Famer MARSHALL FAULK (11 games) and PRIEST HOLMES (nine) have more.
- Tennessee wide receiver JULIO JONES recorded his 850th career reception in his 136th career game, surpassing Pro Football Hall of Famer MARVIN HARRISON (140 games) as the second-fastest player to reach 850 career receptions in NFL history. Only ANTONIO BROWN (133 games) reached the mark in fewer games.
- Cincinnati rookie kicker EVAN MCPHERSON converted a 33-yard field goal with no time remaining in overtime in the Bengals' 27-24 win over Minnesota. He is the second rookie kicker in NFL history to kick a game-winning field goal with no time remaining in overtime, joining JASON SANDERS (October 14, 2018).
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