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NFL opens 2026 season abroad with record nine-game slate

9/8/2026

16 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

NFL Launches Global Season

NFL launches 2026 season with nine games across four continents, ending on Valentine’s Day.
Opening game on Wednesday marks league’s first Wednesday start since 2012.
San Francisco 49ers face Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground in NFL’s first regular-season game abroad.
Ten franchises named new head coaches, tying the NFL record for most hires in an offseason.

Summary

Buffalo Favored

Betting markets list Buffalo as AFC East favorite at $1.70 despite New England’s 14-win season.
Denver’s AFC West odds sit at $3.25, reflecting a roster and top-graded offensive line.
Jacksonville’s division win odds are $3.00, supported by a 138-point differential and Trevor Lawrence’s peak performance.
James Cook leads the rush-yard prop at $8.00, expected to benefit from Buffalo’s DJ Moore trade.

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NFL Launches Global Season

NFL launches 2026 season with nine games across four continents, ending on Valentine’s Day.
Opening game on Wednesday marks league’s first Wednesday start since 2012.
San Francisco 49ers face Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground in NFL’s first regular-season game abroad.
Ten franchises named new head coaches, tying the NFL record for most hires in an offseason.

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