NFL faces compelling decision as London Games return with Jets vs Vikings

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The London Games are underway once again, bringing with them one of the top NFL quarterbacks of the past ten years alongside the highest-paid wide receiver in the league. Fans can expect to see the impressive throws from Aaron Rodgers and the dynamic routes of Justin Jefferson on Sunday in north London. This exhilarating matchup has hardcore fans eagerly anticipating the clash between the New York Jets and the Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Here are two standout teams that are feeling optimistic about their chances in the playoffs and the journey to Super Bowl LIX next year in New Orleans. With a rich history of regular season matches—soon to reach 40 since the New York Giants triumphed over the Miami Dolphins in 2007—the NFL faces an important question regarding London and its role on the international stage.

The NFL definitely sees the importance of London, as shown by its long-term efforts to expand the game beyond the U.S. However, the league’s popularity has now expanded globally. With various cities eager to host games, it seems the league is not as dependent on London as it once was, with new fans popping up in different locations around the world.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have been making Wembley Stadium their second home for over ten years, but the idea of having a team based in London seems to be losing momentum. Many fans in this region aren't particularly interested in having their own franchise, yet their dedication should not go unacknowledged, especially since the city consistently manages to sell out at least three games each season. Mayor Sadiq Khan has expressed his ambitious vision for London to one day host a Super Bowl. "The Super Bowl is very important to us," Khan shared with The Athletic. “We're hosting several American football games, and I want them to be held here so that American sports enthusiasts in Europe can come to London to see them, rather than just going to the U.S.”

This weekend's first game promises to be an exciting matchup, and it might just be the standout among this season's three matchups in London. However, luck might play a role in the story as well. JJ McCarthy, the standout from Michigan and the 10th overall pick, saw his rookie season cut short before it even began due to an injury. This is where Sam Darnold steps in. He has a chance for a bit of revenge against his old team on Sunday, and the Vikings owe a nod to the San Francisco 49ers for helping to restore his confidence after a tough time with the Jets, who drafted him third overall in 2018.

Kevin O’Connell plays a key role in making Sunday’s game exciting, showcasing his clever coaching abilities to lift his team above early challenges. The Vikings’ strong start also puts O’Connell in a prime position for the Coach of the Year award. On defense, the Vikings lead the league with 17 turnovers, while their offense remains dynamic, thanks to star receiver Justin Jefferson, who just signed a massive $140 million, four-year contract, and running back Aaron Jones, who was let go by their division rivals in Green Bay and adds another effective option on the ground.

The likelihood of them staying unbeaten has increased, especially with a sense of urgency around Rodgers and the Jets. The two-time MVP, now 40 and recovering from a serious injury last season, has not yet fully ignited the Jets' offense. Star wide receiver Garrett Wilson has expressed concerns about a lack of creativity on that front. Additionally, Rodgers responded sharply to head coach Robert Saleh’s comments about his players facing challenges with false starts against the Broncos, stating clearly that it’s essential to “hold them accountable.”

It adds an element of risk to the game, which should showcase the real capabilities of each team's chances this season.

In addition, London is set to feature games between the Jaguars and Bears, as well as the Patriots and Jaguars. While these matchups will certainly attract dedicated fans, they aren't particularly thrilling, especially considering Trevor Lawrence's difficulties in Jacksonville and the Patriots, who are in a period of transition and have yet to give third overall pick Drake Maye a chance to start. If New England's head coach Jerod Mayo decides to change quarterbacks, then the game could become much more interesting and meaningful.

However, these two games might really push the limits of patience for fans in the UK, especially after the contentious season opener in Brazil. With increased security and a wet playing field, the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers faced off in Sao Paulo. This opening game of the season drew a massive crowd, something London hasn't experienced yet, leaving the city potentially feeling a bit envious of such an exciting matchup that hasn’t taken place at Wembley or Tottenham in quite a while.

As you stroll from Seven Sisters to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Sunday, you'll experience the heart and soul of a dedicated fan community that has developed over many years. The event itself is likely to delight many, as it brings together fans from the UK, Europe, and beyond. This aspect of the London Games is certainly worth celebrating. The Spurs’ stadium is impressive and well-suited for American football, but during your walk, you’re sure to see fans wearing jerseys from every NFL team, featuring names of both iconic players and newcomers just starting their careers.

The game will begin at 2:30 PM BST, marking the start of nearly 15 continuous hours of football, ending with the Cowboys vs. Steelers matchup that will carry on into the early hours during Sunday Night Football.

With Madrid set to host a regular season game in 2025 at the newly renovated Santiago Bernabeu stadium, London might find itself reduced to just one of many cities worldwide hosting events. While thousands are excited to attend the games over the next three weekends, the choice regarding the remaining regular season matches for next year will show how much the NFL truly values London as a venue.

Catch the NFL in the UK with DAZN's NFL Game Pass.