Sunday night football is one of America’s most popular traditions. For many people, it’s the highlight of their week. But what happens when that tradition clashes with our current consumption habits? For years, NFL games have been aired on Sundays at 8 pm ET. But as more and more people shift their attention to other activities or shows on Sunday nights, the NFL has started to explore other time slots.
Earlier this year, they experimented with a 7 pm ET game, which was a smashing success. So much so that they’ve decided to stick with that time slot for the foreseeable future. What does this mean for you? If you want to watch your favorite team play on Sunday night, you’ll need to get used to watching them at 7 pm ET. And if you’re looking for alternative ways to spend your Sunday night, now is the time to explore them!
Tonight’s Game
Tonight’s game pits the undefeated Chiefs against the 3-2 Chargers in a divisional matchup. The Chiefs are led by quarterback Alex Smith, who has thrown for 2,000 yards and 11 touchdowns this season. Defensively, they are anchored by Linebacker Derrick Johnson, who is second in league with 126 tackles. Kansas City is averaging 31 points per game this season.
The Chargers have been led by Philip Rivers, who has thrown for 3,695 yards and 27 touchdowns this season. He also leads the team in passing yards and passer rating. Defensively, they are anchored by defensive end Melvin Ingram, who is tied for first in the league with 12 sacks. The Chargers are averaging 32 points per game this year.
The Top Players of the Week
1. Falcons 27, Panthers 24
Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan led his team to a come-from-behind victory over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday night. Atlanta battled back from a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter to win 27-24. Ryan completed 31 of 49 passes for 316 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 36 yards and one touchdown. Wide receiver Julio Jones led the Falcons in both catches (10) and yards (158).
2. Seahawks 34, 49ers 10
On Sunday night, Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson led his team to an easy victory over their divisional rival, the 49ers. The Seahawks scored with a 44-yard field goal by Sebastian Janikowski in the first quarter and never looked back. Wilson completed 25 of 33 passes for 346 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for 41 yards and another touchdown. Receiver Doug Baldwin led Seattle in both catches (8) and yards (128).
3. Steelers 23, Bengals 20
Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger led his team to a comeback victory over Cincinnati on Sunday night. Pittsburgh trailed 20-14 at halftime but came back to win the game 23-20 thanks to a pair of second-half field goals by Chris Boswell. Roethlisberger completed 21 of 37 passes for 266 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 39 yards and another touchdown. Wide receiver Antonio Brown led Pittsburgh in both catches (10) and yards (153
Who to Watch for Tonight
Tonight’s game features the Atlanta Falcons and the Carolina Panthers. The Falcons are coming off a big win against the Seattle Seahawks, while the Panthers are looking to rebound after losing to the New Orleans Saints. Fans of each team should keep an eye out for some big performances.
For the Falcons, quarterback Matt Ryan is expected to have another strong game. He has led his team to a 5-0 record this season and has plenty of weapons. Running back Devonta Freeman is also worth watching, as he has been one of the league’s most productive players this year.
For the Panthers, defensive end Luke Kuechly could have a big night. He leads the league in tackles and has been huge for Carolina’s defense thus far this year. Wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin is also worth keeping an eye on, as he is one of the best young wide receivers in the NFL.
Prediction for the Game Tonight
Tonight’s game between the Arizona Cardinals and the Los Angeles Rams is a major matchup that could significantly impact the NFC West standings. Here are three predictions for how tonight’s game will play out:
1. The Cardinals will win by a close margin, but it won’t be easy.
2. The Rams will score early and often, but they’ll ultimately fall just short in their bid for an upset victory.
3. This one will come down to the wire, with both teams trading field goals until late in the fourth quarter.
What to Drink Before the Game Tonight
Looking to get in the football spirit before Sunday night’s big game? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Drink some pre-game beers or cocktails to help loosen up before the game.
Watch some football highlights or catch up on the latest news ahead of kickoff.
Get into the game spirit with tailgating snacks and drinks like hot dogs, chicken wings, and guacamole.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair and take in the game from outside.