NFC South teams prepare for opening week of 2026 NFL season

The 2026 NFL season opens this week with the NFC South teams facing a slate of challenging matchups. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers host the Cincinnati Bengals, while the Carolina Panthers contend with the Chicago Bears in a game highlighting quarterbacks Bryce Young and Caleb Williams. In Atlanta, the Falcons start Tua Tagovailoa at quarterback against the Pittsburgh Steelers due to an injury keeping Michael Penix off the field. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints face a test against the Detroit Lions’ offense. Defensive coordinator Brandon Staley leads the Saints in an effort to contain the Lions' roster. Both the Buccaneers and the Saints look to capitalize on potential defensive vulnerabilities in their respective opponents to secure early season momentum.

• 2:00 PMYahoo Sports — State of the NFC South: Week 1 preview