The NFL kickoff game has truly turned into a showcase for remarkable performances and record-breaking achievements since its inception. Particularly, several head-to-head contests have become infamous over the years for their collective scoring output and personal player achievements. The Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens’ encounter in 2013 remains etched in the record books, as does the Green Bay Packers’ face-off against the New Orleans Saints in 2011.
The Broncos-Ravens game on September 5, 2013, which some like to cite as the advent of the aerial assault, was a jaw-dropping show of offensive fireworks. That game added up to a whopping 76 points! It was a record for the highest combined score by both teams in a kickoff game. Quarterback Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos made this one count, as they cruised to a 49-27 victory. Manning’s performance was nothing short of spectacular as he threw for 462 yards and seven TDs, both records for an opening game. His efforts were key in creating a new standard for all future kickoff games to come.
Record-Setting Performances
With his record-breaking performance, Kareem Hunt was unable to attend his own coronation. He rushed for 148 yards, a record for the most rushing yards in an NFL kickoff game. Let’s not forget that Joe Flacco of the Ravens had a remarkable game. He had a solid game with 34 completions on 62 attempts, gaining a ridiculous 362 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Jackson’s 62 attempts in the kickoff game of the season was a new record. More of an indication of the sheer fierce competitiveness of that stellar Thursday night Top 10 clash.
Last year’s 2011 kickoff game between the Packers and Saints which combined for an exciting 76 total points. This exceptional score underscores the popular trend of record high-scoring games seen in this annual showcase. These budding rivalries have established the foundation for future NFL campaigns and given football aficionados the kind of sublime moments that make the sport special.
Recent Trends and Notable Appearances
Over the past few seasons, the Kansas City Chiefs have turned heads in the NFL. They’ve locked up a place in the kickoff game for two straight years, alongside the New England Patriots in this rarefied air. In their 2017 matchup, the Chiefs rolled up a mind-blowing 537 yards of offense, the most ever in a kickoff game. They went on the road to defeat the then-defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots 42-27, with quarterback Alex Smith throwing for 368 yards and four scores. Tyreek Hill was their biggest asset with seven catches for 133 yards and a touchdown.
Philadelphia’s second appearance in the annual kickoff game, after winning Super Bowl LII in 2018. This recently established trend of showcasing reigning champions has been the norm since 2002 with the exception of 2019. Dallas has been an enthusiastic participant in kickoff games, going 1-1 in their two appearances. Their latest action was against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during 2021.
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