Next week marks a pivotal moment in the NFL calendar as the league unveils schedules for the upcoming season.
I have to admit, for those who are less enthusiastic about this event, it might seem a bit pointless—knowing each team’s schedule is largely just a formality. At the end of the day, it tells us when the games will happen.
But, embracing a more open-minded perspective, I’ve surprisingly found myself getting into this NFL “holiday.” The schedule release videos grow more creative each year, which is a big deal for fans planning their travel around team games in the fall.
If you can’t beat them, you might as well join them, right?
I’m actually looking forward to seeing the schedule and want to highlight a few games I’d be excited to watch on Christmas Day. The league is set to air three games on holidays, with two on Netflix and three on Amazon Prime.
This Christmas will be historic—the first time the league’s had a game on a Thursday holiday.
Here’s what I suggest:
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Buffalo Bills at 1pm
What better way to kick off the Holiday Triple Header than with a rematch from the AFC Championship Game?
The last matchup between the Bills and the Chiefs was thrilling, featuring that unforgettable “13-second” game a couple of seasons ago. Plus, it showcases two of the league’s top quarterbacks, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen.
Interestingly, the Chiefs have expressed a desire to become regulars on Christmas Day games, similar to how the Lions and Cowboys are tied to Thanksgiving. Although Mike North, the NFL’s vice president of broadcast planning and scheduling, didn’t endorse that idea, it’s worth mentioning it took a long time for the Lions and Cowboys to establish their Thanksgiving presence. It seems only logical for the Chiefs to at least play their third consecutive Christmas game.
Los Angeles Chargers vs. Minnesota Vikings, 4:30pm
If there’s one thing that a holiday is about, it’s gathering with loved ones.
What better way to illustrate that than with a reunion between Jim Harbaugh and JJ McCarthy?
As Sam Darnold heads to the Pacific Northwest, McCarthy will join the Vikings after being a first-round draft pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Although he spent his rookie season recovering from a knee injury, he’s now eager to step up under Kevin O’Connell.
It’ll be fun to see him go against the Chargers—the coach who helped him win the national championship at Michigan is certainly a nice holiday treat.
Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 8pm
If there’s a rematch in the AFC Championship Game, why not round out the triple header with a rematch in the NFC Championship Game?
Last year, the Commanders surprised many by making an impressive run to the NFC Championship Game led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. They’ve made significant moves in the offseason to build around him, adding talented players like Deebo Samuel and Ramie Tunsil, alongside newcomers.
This improved Commanders roster should have a solid chance to face off against the Eagles again in primetime on Christmas night.
