Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season brought high-impact moments across the league, featuring standout plays from Lamar Jackson, Zay Flowers, and Derrick Henry for the Baltimore Ravens, alongside a dramatic 61-yard touchdown run by Kyle Monangai for the Chicago Bears, according to recent NFL game highlights.
The opening week of the 2026 NFL season delivered explosive performances and shifting momentum across multiple matchups. According to NFL game highlights, teams capitalized on long-range plays and defensive turnovers, establishing early-season tone setters for offenses and defenses alike.
Baltimore Ravens Offense Shines with Jackson and Henry
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson put together a sharp performance to open the season, connecting with wide receiver Zay Flowers on a 17-yard pass over the middle, according to NFL reporting. Jackson also found wide receiver Chris Moore for a 53-yard gain with a lofted delivery downfield.
On the ground, running back Derrick Henry powered the Ravens’ offense, scoring three touchdowns, capped by a 3-yard rushing score that extended Baltimore’s lead. Kicker Tyler Loops added to the scoreline by converting a 45-yard field goal to put the Ravens ahead by three scores.
Chicago Bears Rely on Monangai and Swift in Carolina Matchup
The Chicago Bears capitalized on explosive running plays against the Carolina Panthers during Week 1. Running back Kyle Monangai recorded a career-long 61-yard touchdown run, marking the team’s fifth rushing score of the game, according to NFL coverage.
Teammate D’Andre Swift contributed two rushing touchdowns, including a 1-score that marked the team’s fourth rushing touchdown of the afternoon. Defensively, cornerback Jaylon Johnson forced a fumble against Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at the start of the fourth quarter, which was subsequently recovered by linebacker Devin Bush for the Bears.
Around the League: Big Plays Define Opening Week Action
Across other Week 1 matchups, several standout offensive and defensive plays shaped close contests. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen completed a 40-yard pass to tight end Dalton Kincaid, while kicker Tyler Bass converted a 33-yard field goal to put Buffalo ahead 30-28. Houston Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn connected on a 58-yard field goal to pull his team ahead 31-30.
In New Orleans, Saints wide receiver Devaughn Vele made a diving over-the-shoulder touchdown catch against the Detroit Lions. Kendre Miller also added an 8-yard touchdown run for the Saints late in the third quarter, while Jared Goff threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to Amon-Ra St. Brown to increase the Lions’ lead to 20-0.
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