• The 2025 NFL season opener between the Eagles and Cowboys drew 28.3 million viewers, making it the second-most watched NFL Kickoff game ever.
• A 65-minute weather delay didn’t stop fans from tuning in, with Eagles vs Cowboys TV ratings peaking at 34.3 million in the second quarter.
• Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley led the Eagles to a 24-20 win, despite a controversial ejection of Jalen Carter early in the game.
• The NFL is reviewing Carter’s actions, with a potential fine or suspension looming.

A Blockbuster NFL Opener

The 2025 NFL season kicked off with a bang as the Philadelphia Eagles took on the Dallas Cowboys in a Thursday night thriller. Coming off a massive college football weekend, I was glued to my screen for this NFC East clash, and I wasn’t alone—Eagles vs Cowboys TV ratings hit 28.3 million viewers, according to NBC. 

As a longtime football fan, I know a good rivalry game can pull in huge numbers, but this one nearly broke records, even with a weather hiccup. The Eagles’ 24-20 victory over the Cowboys was a nail-biter, and the TV ratings prove it was must-watch TV.

Record-Breaking Viewership

NBC reported that the Eagles vs Cowboys TV ratings were on track to be the most-watched Week 1 kickoff ever, averaging 31.9 million viewers before a 65-minute lightning delay hit in the second quarter. At its peak, 34.3 million fans were watching—numbers that rival some Super Bowl broadcasts.

 Despite no scoring after the delay, the game held strong, landing as the second-most watched NFL Kickoff in history, just behind last year’s Ravens-Chiefs thriller (29.2 million). It’s like hosting a big game-day party only to have a storm pause the fun—yet nobody left.

Read also:
Cowboys vs. Eagles Week 1 Winners and Losers
How to Watch the Cowboys vs. Eagles NFL Season Opener 

What Drove the Drama?

The game wasn’t just about the final score. Before the opening whistle, Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected just four seconds in for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Talk about starting with a bang! ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the NFL is reviewing the incident, with a decision expected soon. “At the very least, Carter will face a substantial fine, and he could also be suspended,” Schefter noted. As a fan, I’ve seen rivalries get heated, but this was a next-level drama that had social media buzzing.

On the field, Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley powered the Eagles with three combined scores, holding off a gritty Cowboys effort led by Dak Prescott. Dallas nearly pulled off the upset, but a few costly drops by CeeDee Lamb sealed their fate. The game showed why this rivalry never gets old—it’s like a family feud where every play feels personal.

How It Stacks Up

The Eagles-Cowboys ratings are a testament to the NFL’s pull, especially when compared to other Week 1 games. Last year’s Ravens-Bills AFC playoff rematch, featuring MVPs Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, was a 41-40 stunner that kept fans on edge. 

While those numbers aren’t out yet, I’d bet they’re close to the Eagles-Cowboys mark, given the excitement. The NFL knows how to deliver drama, and as a viewer, it’s like getting front-row seats to a blockbuster every week.

Eagles vs. Cowboys TV Ratings Breakdown

• Total Viewers: 28.3 million
• Peak Viewership: 34.3 million (second quarter)
• Pre-Delay Average: 31.9 million
• Rank: Second-most watched NFL Kickoff game, behind Ravens-Chiefs (2024)

What’s Next?

The Eagles now gear up for a Super Bowl rematch against the Chiefs in Kansas City, but all eyes are on the NFL’s ruling on Jalen Carter. A fine or suspension could shake up Philly’s defensive line. Meanwhile, the Cowboys, under new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, showed promise despite the loss. As a fan, I’m excited to see how both teams bounce back—and whether Week 2’s primetime games can match this opener’s intensity.

A Fan’s Perspective

I’ve watched the Eagles-Cowboys rivalry for years, and this game reminded me why it’s one of the NFL’s best. The drama, the stakes, and even the weather delay made it feel like a movie you couldn’t turn off. Those 28.3 million viewers? I get why they stayed tuned. 

With the NFL season just starting, I’m already hyped for what’s next—whether it’s more rivalry fireworks or a surprise guest like Carter stealing the headlines. I’ll be watching, snacks in hand, ready for another wild ride.

Aliha

Hi, I’m Aliha! I’ve been a huge NFL fan for as long as I can remember, and I love sharing my thoughts, updates, and insights about the game. Whether it’s big plays, team news, or behind-the-scenes stories, writing about the NFL gives me a chance to connect with fellow fans who share the same passion for football.