Breaking down 12 must-see games for 2026 season

Key Points:

• The NFL regular season features 12 highly anticipated games centered around rematches, reunions, and rivalries, excluding Giants and Jets matchups.
• Key games include the Patriots vs. Seahawks Week 1 Super Bowl rematch, Ravens vs. Steelers Week 15 rivalry under new coaching leadership, and Bills vs. Broncos Week 16 with Josh Allen returning to a challenging playoff venue.
• Other notable contests are Rams vs. Seahawks Week 16 with previous close games, Chiefs vs. Bengals Week 14 highlighting Mahomes and Burrow rivalry, and Cowboys vs. Texans Week 4 showcasing a top offense against a top defense.
• Unique storylines include Dolphins vs. Packers Week 15 featuring new coaching connections, Raiders vs. 49ers Week 9 with sons of former Super Bowl-winning coaches facing off, and Colts vs. Eagles Week 14 where Eagles coach Sirianni faces his former team and protégé.
• These matchups promise intense competition and compelling narratives, emphasizing the NFL’s tradition of memorable games driven by history and personal connections.