The complete 2025 NFL schedule has been released, and with it comes the opportunity to dive into the Week 1 matchups and futures that present the best betting value. Here’s a breakdown of the top bets and futures to consider as we gear up for the new season.

Week 1 Matchups

Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings

• Odds: Chicago Bears -1
• Time: 8:15 p.m. ET, Monday, Sept. 8
• Analysis: The Bears are favored in the Monday night opener at Soldier Field. With an upgraded offense under Ben Johnson and a defense led by new coordinator Dennis Allen, Chicago looks poised to start the season strong. Quarterback Caleb Williams will have key additions in the route tree, and the defense will employ overload pressure to disrupt Vikings rookie QB J.J. McCarthy.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons

• Odds: Tampa Bay Buccaneers ML (-135)
• Time: 1 p.m. ET, Sunday, Sept. 7
• Analysis: The Buccaneers return all 11 starters on offense and have added WR Emeka Egbuka for depth. The defense, bolstered by the addition of Haason Reddick, will face Falcons rookie QB Michael Penix Jr., who may struggle against Todd Bowles' blitz-heavy scheme.

Denver Broncos vs. Tennessee Titans

• Odds: Denver Broncos -7
• Time: 4:05 p.m. ET, Sunday, Sept. 7
• Analysis: The Broncos' defense, featuring CB Jahdae Barron and reigning Defensive Player of the Year Pat Surtain II, will challenge Titans rookie QB Cam Ward in his first NFL start. Bo Nix and Sean Payton should have no trouble scoring against a Titans defense still in development.

Early Futures Bets

Los Angeles Chargers to win AFC (+1000)

• 2024 Record: 11-6, second in AFC West, lost in wild-card round
• Analysis: With Justin Herbert entering his second season under Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers have made key offensive upgrades and return a defense that allowed a league-low 17.7 points per game. They are a strong candidate for a deep playoff run.

Green Bay Packers to win NFC (+1000)

• 2024 Record: 11-6, third in NFC North, lost in wild-card round
• Analysis: Jordan Love continues to improve, and the Packers' young core now has playoff experience. With key offseason additions and the league's easiest NFC North schedule, Green Bay is built for a serious run at the NFC title.

Los Angeles Rams to win NFC West (+160)

• 2024 Record: 10-7, first in NFC West, lost in divisional round
• Analysis: With a healthy Matthew Stafford and dynamic playmakers like Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, the Rams are well-positioned to repeat as NFC West champions. An improved defense and favorable matchups make another division title achievable.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL season promises to be an exciting one, with plenty of opportunities for early betting success. Whether you’re looking at Week 1 matchups or considering futures, these insights can help you make informed decisions as the season approaches.