The opening week of the NFL season delivered not only on-field drama but also a wave of playful trolling from winning teams. As franchises continue to embrace social media rivalries, their victory celebrations are becoming as anticipated as the games themselves. From historical references to pop culture nods, Week 1 offered fans a reminder that NFL competition extends beyond the scoreboard.
Steelers Edge Jets in Rodgers’ Return
The Pittsburgh Steelers pulled off a narrow 34-32 win over the New York Jets in Aaron Rodgers’ highly anticipated return to MetLife Stadium. Chris Boswell’s 60-yard field goal with just over a minute remaining sealed the victory in a game that saw seven lead changes. Rodgers threw for 244 yards and four touchdowns, while former Steeler Justin Fields put up 266 yards and three scores for the Jets. After the game, Pittsburgh’s social media team posted lighthearted jabs, including a nod to a viral British holiday advertisement and a clever take on “airplane mode.”
Bengals Take Ohio Bragging Rights
The Cincinnati Bengals secured their first Week 1 win since 2021 by edging the Cleveland Browns 17-16 on the road. A 35-yard field goal by Evan McPherson in the third quarter gave Cincinnati the lead for good. Cleveland missed a crucial 36-yard kick late in the fourth before Joe Flacco threw an interception that sealed the Browns’ fate. The Bengals wasted no time teasing their in-state rivals with online jabs about Ohio dominance.
Raiders Start New Era with Defense
Las Vegas opened the Pete Carroll era with a 20-13 victory over the New England Patriots. The Raiders’ defense shined, allowing their fewest points in a season opener since 2000. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty scored in his debut, joining Josh Jacobs as the last Raider to achieve the milestone. The Raiders’ trolling leaned on history, cheekily playing off the famous “The British are coming” line to mark their conquest in New England.
Commanders Outplay Giants
Washington’s 21-6 win over the New York Giants highlighted quarterback Jayden Daniels’ strong outing with 301 yards and a touchdown. New arrival Deebo Samuel contributed both through the air and on the ground, including a 19-yard rushing score. The Commanders’ social media team poked fun with a viral US Open clip, editing it to show them stealing a “W” from their NFC East rivals, echoing the infamous stolen hat incident at the tennis tournament.
Rams Hold Off Texans
The Los Angeles Rams edged the Houston Texans 14-9, surviving a late scare after forcing a fumble with under two minutes left. Matthew Stafford’s clutch connection with Puka Nacua sealed the game. To celebrate, the Rams invoked Houston native Beyoncé, referencing her hit “TEXAS HOLD ’EM” and a memorable concert mishap when a stage prop malfunctioned. The playful nod connected pop culture with their Week 1 triumph.
Week 1 proved that NFL rivalries are thriving on and off the field. Teams like the Steelers, Bengals, Raiders, Commanders, and Rams showed how victories can be amplified through humor and cultural references. As the season unfolds, fans can expect more of these creative exchanges, keeping the NFL’s digital battleground just as lively as the gridiron itself.