The 2025 NFL season kicks off with a fascinating clash in the Mile High City. The Tennessee Titans travel west to face the Denver Broncos in a Week 1 contest with several intriguing storylines. A rookie quarterback, elite defenders, and exciting new faces headline a game that could set the tone for both franchises.
Tennessee is entering a new era under first overall pick Cam Ward, while Denver eyes a playoff push behind Bo Nix and one of the league’s most feared defenses. Expect plenty of fireworks—and some growing pains—in this Sunday afternoon matchup.
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Game Info
Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025
Start Time: 2:05 p.m. MT
Location: Denver, Colorado
Stadium: Empower Field at Mile High
Network: FOX, NFL+, Sunday Ticket
Betting Odds
Odds courtesy of DraftKings.
Point Spread
TEN +8.5 (-112)
DEN -8.5 (-108)
Moneyline
TEN (+320)
DEN (–410)
Over/Under
42.5 points
Denver is the “safe” choice, but Tennessee’s defensive front and Ward’s unknown ceiling make them a dangerous underdog. The question is whether the Titans’ rookie-led offense can keep pace with Denver’s top defense.
Key Matchups
Calvin Ridley vs. Patrick Surtain II
Ridley gives Ward a reliable veteran target, but lining up against Surtain—the league’s premier corner and reigning Defensive Player of the Year—will test timing and trust immediately. If Ridley wins even a few of these one-on-ones, Tennessee will increase its chance of an upset in the season opener.
Bo Nix vs. Titans Defense
Bo Nix is coming off an impressive rookie season in which he led the Broncos to the playoffs for the first time since 2015 and totaled 3,775 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. However, Tennessee’s defensive front, led by Jeffrey Simmons and new addition Dre’Mont Jones, can wreck game plans. Nix may be able to use his legs to exploit a Tennessee defense that allowed the sixth-most rushing yards by quarterbacks in 2024.
Titans Offensive Line vs. Broncos Pass Rush
Ward’s debut will be shaped by protection. Denver’s front seven, spearheaded by Baron Browning and Zach Allen, could force the rookie into mistakes if Tennessee’s line stumbles.
Rookies to Watch in NFL Debut
Elic Ayomanor, WR, Titans
The fourth-round pick out of Stanford has made an immediate impression, earning the starting WR3 spot on the depth chart. Ayomanor’s combination of size and route precision adds another layer to the Titans’ passing attack. If Denver focuses too heavily on Ridley, Ayomanor could sneak free for a momentum-swinging play.
Jeremy Crawshaw, P, Broncos
While highlighting a punter may seem odd, play execution on special teams is critical in close games. The Broncos showed they believe in Crawshaw’s ability by using a sixth-round pick on the former Florida Gator. In Denver’s thin air, his leg could become a lethal weapon, pinning Tennessee’s rookie quarterback deep.
Final Thoughts
The Titans are beginning their rebuild with Cam Ward and a retooled roster, while the Broncos are aiming higher, confident that Bo Nix and their defense can deliver a playoff return. If Tennessee can protect Ward and generate big plays from Ridley and Ayomanor, they can keep the game close. But if Denver’s defense dictates the game, the Broncos should open 2025 with a convincing win.
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