NFL’s Most Anticipated Grudge Matches of the 2025 Season

As a new year rolls in for the NFL, fans can look forward to a fresh set of schedule matchups filled with drama and the potential for revenge. Each season, former players, coaches, and teams face off, igniting competitive rivalries and providing thrilling entertainment. This year is no different, with some exciting grudge matches ahead.

Here’s a look at the top ten rivalries we will want to watch closely in the upcoming NFL season:

10. Seattle Seahawks at Pittsburgh Steelers (Week 2, Sept. 14)

The first game on our list is when the Seattle Seahawks face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Recently, two-time Pro Bowl receiver DK Metcalf was traded from Seattle to Pittsburgh, a move that shocked many fans. Metcalf received a hefty five-year, $150 million extension post-trade. His performance in this game will be under the spotlight, especially to see how well he connects with the Steelers’ quarterback. All eyes will be on how he performs against his former team.

9. Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills (Week 1, Sept. 7)

In the opening week, the Baltimore Ravens will take on the Buffalo Bills, a matchup teeming with excitement. While not a Super Bowl rematch, last year’s nail-biting playoff game, which saw the Ravens narrowly lose by just two points, set the stage for a highly competitive encounter. Both quarterbacks, Lamar Jackson of the Ravens and Josh Allen of the Bills, displayed exceptional skills last season. The outcome here could very well set the tone for their respective campaigns going forward.

8. Baltimore Ravens at Kansas City Chiefs (Week 4, Sept. 28)

The Ravens are back in our list as they square off against the Kansas City Chiefs. The last encounter ended in heartbreak for Baltimore, as a last-minute touchdown attempt narrowly missed. With Jackson seeking to prove himself against a team that has repeatedly knocked him out of title contention, the stakes are high. Fans will be eager to see whether the Ravens can finally break through this barrier.

7. Detroit Lions at Washington Commanders (Week 10, Nov. 9)

This matchup promises to be intriguing for Detroit Lions fans, especially after last season’s unexpected playoff upset against the Washington Commanders. Following the considerable turnover in assistant coaches, Detroit’s head coach Dan Campbell will be out for vengeance, hoping to showcase his team’s progress. Expect Jared Goff to be looking for redemption from his rocky playoff performance as both teams aim to prove that their strides last season were just the beginning.

6. Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks (Week 13, Nov. 30)

When the Minnesota Vikings head to Seattle, there’s a lot at stake, particularly for quarterback Sam Darnold. He led the Vikings to a successful season but was not offered a return contract, becoming a Seahawk instead. This matchup will test Seattle’s investment in Darnold’s abilities against a Vikings team that is also evolving. Fans will be curious to see how Darnold performs under new management while the Vikings rebuild.

5. Dallas Cowboys at Chicago Bears (Week 3, Sept. 21)

The Cowboys and Bears’ matchup will be particularly fascinating. The Cowboys have not forgotten being steamrolled by the Lions last year, leading to notable changes in their coaching staff. This game will also feature depth, with Caleb Williams on the Bears. Fans will want to see if the Cowboys’ new defensive strategies can handle the talent on display.

4. New England Patriots at Tennessee Titans (Week 7, Oct. 19)

When the New England Patriots visit the Tennessee Titans, head coach Mike Vrabel’s return to New England adds an intriguing layer. After being let go by the Titans, he has something to prove. With the Titans hoping to show they can succeed without him, expect to see a strategic battle between the two coaching philosophies.

3. Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills (Week 9, Nov. 2)

The longstanding rivalry between the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills comes to the forefront once again. With a history of thrilling playoff matchups, this game is rife with tension. While the Chiefs have gotten the better of Buffalo in playoffs, the Bills have historically performed well in regular-season games. Fans await a high-stakes clash as both teams aim for playoff positioning.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets (Week 1, Sept. 7)

Expect fireworks when the Steelers face off against the Jets. Quarterback Justin Fields has excellent motivation to prove himself after a rocky end to last season. Meanwhile, there’s speculation over Aaron Rodgers potentially joining the Steelers, creating more drama. This game will definitely not lack storylines as fans watch closely to see who will emerge victorious.

1. Philadelphia Eagles at Kansas City Chiefs (Week 2, Sept. 14)

At the top of the list, the rematch between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs is particularly noteworthy. Following their previous encounter in the Super Bowl, where the Eagles triumphed convincingly, the Chiefs will be looking for redemption. With both teams loaded with talent, expect this high-profile game to draw significant attention.

As the NFL season approaches, fans have plenty of exciting matchups to look forward to, promising intense competition and unforgettable moments on the field.