The 2025 NFL season kicks off in dramatic fashion as the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings close out Week 1 in a primetime showdown. Fans are eager to see how two rookie quarterbacks handle the spotlight, with Caleb Williams leading the Bears and JJ McCarthy making his first NFL start for the Vikings.
Excitement builds in Chicago
There’s a renewed sense of optimism in Chicago. With new head coach Ben Johnson at the helm, the franchise has embraced a fresh direction. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams is at the center of it all, drawing attention across the league.
Local buzz has been palpable, with debates and hot takes flooding sports media. Ty Dunne’s Go Long piece on Williams has already sparked discussion about his readiness to lead the team. This opener provides the first true test for Chicago’s rebuilt identity and Williams’ ability to rise to the moment.
Challenges on both sides
While anticipation is high, both teams enter the matchup with personnel questions. The Bears’ defense may be short-handed, as linebacker TJ Edwards faces uncertainty, and All-Pro cornerback Jaylon Johnson could be limited after missing the offseason program due to a groin injury.
On the Vikings’ side, head coach Dennis Allen will look to craft defensive schemes designed to challenge Williams. At the same time, Minnesota’s offense welcomes key reinforcements. All-Pro wideout Justin Jefferson is expected to make his season debut, while left tackle Christian Darrisaw returns to strengthen the offensive line. However, the Vikings will be without wide receiver Jordan Addison, who begins serving a three-game suspension.
Where to Watch Bears vs. Vikings
Fans across the globe can tune in to this much-anticipated clash.
TV Channel: —
Live Stream: DAZN NFL Game Pass
NFL fans in Australia can watch the game live through NFL Game Pass via DAZN, which offers comprehensive coverage of every NFL matchup throughout the 2025 season. Subscribers also gain access to preseason contests, the regular season, the Super Bowl, NFL RedZone, NFL Network, and exclusive NFL Originals.
Kickoff Details
Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Time: 10:15 a.m. AEST
Venue: Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
This game not only closes out Week 1 but also sets the tone for two franchises looking to establish themselves early in the season.
Chicago Bears 2025 regular season schedule
Week 1: Sept. 9 vs. Vikings — 10:15 a.m.
Week 2: Sept. 15 at Lions — 3 a.m.
Week 3: Sept. 22 vs. Cowboys — 6:25 a.m.
Week 4: Sept. 29 at Raiders — 6:25 a.m.
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Oct. 14 at Commanders — 10:15 a.m.
Week 7: Oct. 20 vs. Saints — 3 a.m.
Week 8: Oct. 27 at Ravens — 3 a.m.
Week 9: Nov. 3 at Bengals — 3 a.m.
Week 10: Nov. 10 vs. Giants — 3 a.m.
Week 11: Nov. 17 at Vikings — 3 a.m.
Week 12: Nov. 24 vs. Steelers — 3 a.m.
Week 13: Nov. 29 at Eagles — 5 a.m.
Week 14: Dec. 8 at Packers — 3 a.m.
Week 15: Dec. 15 vs. Browns — 3 a.m.
Week 16: Dec. 20 vs. Packers — TBD
Week 17: Dec. 29 at 49ers — 10:20 a.m.
Week 18: TBD vs. Lions — TBD
Minnesota Vikings 2025 regular season schedule
Week 1: Sept. 9 at Bears — 10:15 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 2: Sept. 15 vs. Falcons — 10:20 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 3: Sept. 22 vs. Bengals — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 4: Sept. 28 at Steelers (Dublin) — 11:30 p.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 5: Oct. 5 at Browns (London) — 11:30 p.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 6: BYE
Week 7: Oct. 20 vs. Eagles — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 8: Oct. 24 at Chargers — 10:15 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 9: Nov. 3 at Lions — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 10: Nov. 10 vs. Ravens — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 11: Nov. 17 vs. Bears — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 12: Nov. 24 at Packers — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 13: Dec. 1 at Seahawks — 6:05 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 14: Dec. 8 vs. Commanders — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 15: Dec. 15 at Cowboys — 10:20 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 16: Dec. 22 at Giants — 3 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 17: Dec. 26 vs. Lions — 6:30 a.m. (DAZN NFL Game Pass)
Week 18: TBD vs. Packers — TBD