We have reached the last week of the preseason. It’s almost time for the regular season folks. I know every week I say the 2022 season is just around the corner, but this time I do really means that.
Before we get to the games that matter, we have to play the third week of the preseason first.
Players have their last chance to show the coaches their worth as teams evaluate how their season will go.
There are some strong matchups for the final week of the preseason, including a potential Super Bowl preview, an offensive coordinator facing his old team and a Super Bowl rematch.
Here’s a look at the four games to watch in the final week of the preseason:
Green Bay Packers vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Thursday, August 25 at 8:00 PM ET
TV: The NFL Network Transmission: FuboTV
Could this be a potential Super Bowl preview? Of course it can be. These teams are each favorites in their respective conferences and have star quarterbacks, so both could find themselves in the big game this year.
This season, the Packers will focus on improving the receiving core after losing several key players on offense. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been vocal about pfrustrations with his offense, especially the wide receiversso they are an area of the team to keep an eye on.
As of Monday, coach Matt LaFleur had not told the starters if they are playing.
The Chiefs also lost a star wide receiver this offseason, with Tyreek Hill heading to the Miami Dolphins, so their offense will see some changes this year.
Kansas City will host the game between two teams that both have high expectations at the start of the season. Both programs are expected to make a playoff run with championship goals in mind.
Friday, August 26 at 8:15 PM ET
TV: Check local listings Transmission: FuboTV
The Patriots will be facing a familiar face as they take on their former offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who is now the head coach of the Raiders.
The Patriots were asked about the upcoming game after their home game against the Carolina Panthers, and many players noted that while they will be facing veteran members of the team, it won’t be a family reunion and they will focus on taking care of business.
Coming from the Patriots system, I would imagine McDaniels would have the same mentality, focusing on the game instead of seeing old friends again.
The Raiders are arguably in the toughest division in football and everyone seems to have different opinions on where they will finish in the AFC West.
Please check the checkbox to acknowledge that you wish to subscribe.
Thanks for signing up!
Keep an eye on your inbox.
We are sorry!
There was an error processing your subscription.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Saturday, August 27 at 6:00 PM ET
TV: The NFL Network Transmission: FuboTV
A few months after Super Bowl LVI, we’re getting a rematch. This game will be much different than the championship, when the Rams beat the Bengals 23-20 to win the second home Super Bowl in NFL history, but alas, it’s still a rematch.
The teams will get to know each other before Saturday’s game, as they will have joint practices at the Bengals’ facility on Wednesday and Thursday.
Rams head coach Sean McVay uses joint practices to allow starters to get reps since they don’t play during the preseason.
Los Angeles quarterback Matthew Stafford is dealing with elbow soreness, but downplayed the severity of the issue. His practice has been limited because of the problem.
New York Jets vs. New York Giants
Sunday, August 28 at 1:00 PM ET
TV: The NFL Network Transmission: FuboTV
The last game I’m highlighting for this week involves teams with much lower expectations than the teams in the other games I mentioned.
Both teams are coming off disappointing seasons and are hoping that offseason changes can help them avoid being the shame of the league, short of a better season.
The 2022 regular season hasn’t officially begun, but both New York teams are already dealing with the loss of key players.
The Jets’ quarterback situation is less than ideal, with Zach Wilson injured in the preseason, leaving the team with Joe Flacco and Mike White to lead the offense. Jets coach Robert Saleh has been vocal about his support for Flaccowho he believes should be a starter in the league.
On the other side, Giants first-round pick Kayvon Thibodeaux suffered a sprained MCL. The linebacker could miss the first week of the regular season.
Both teams call MetLife Stadium home, but this week, the Jets are the home team.