The wait is over as the 2024 NFL London Games prepare to captivate fans this October, marking a vital event in the UK’s sporting calendar. Superstars like Aaron Rodgers, Justin Jefferson, Caleb Williams, and Trevor Lawrence are set to illuminate the capital as the league embarks on another thrilling season.
This year marks the 17th installment of regular season NFL games in London, beginning with the New York Giants’ historic victory over the Miami Dolphins in 2007. The only missed year was in 2020, due to the pandemic.
What Are the Games?
2024 NFL International Games Schedule
| Date | Matchup | Location |
|---|---|---|
| October 6 (Week 5) | Minnesota Vikings vs New York Jets | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium |
| October 13 (Week 6) | Chicago Bears vs Jacksonville Jaguars | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium |
| October 20 (Week 7) | Jacksonville Jaguars vs New England Patriots | Wembley Stadium |
| November 10 (Week 10) | Carolina Panthers vs New York Giants | Allianz Arena |
Historically, the UK hosted the American Bowl pre-season exhibition games from 1968 to 1993, paving the way for an enthusiastic reception of regular-season games over the years. The NFL’s presence has been firmly established with 36 games played in London, ensuring that each franchise participates overseas at least once every eight years.
Key Statistics
NFL London Statistics
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| First regular-season game | 2007 (Miami Dolphins vs New York Giants) |
| Number of games | 36 |
| Record attendance | 86,215 (Jaguars vs Broncos, 2022) |
| Most team appearances | 11 – Jacksonville Jaguars |
| Most wins | 6 – Jacksonville Jaguars |
| Highest-scoring game | Chargers 32-37 Saints (2008) |
| Lowest-scoring game | Dolphins 0-20 Saints (2017) |
Exciting Developments
Football fans can look forward to something new this October 8, as the NFL Academy hosts a match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium against California’s De La Salle High School. This engaging event not only highlights emerging talent but also emphasizes the league’s commitment to nurturing the sport internationally.
Meet the Teams
New York Jets
- Head Coach: Robert Saleh
- 2023 Season: 2-2
- The Jets strive to break their playoff drought with Aaron Rodgers, who aims to revive the team’s fortune.
Minnesota Vikings
- Head Coach: Kevin O’Connell
- 2023 Season: 4-0
- Surprising many this season, the Vikings have found success under Sam Darnold’s leadership after the injury to J.J. McCarthy.
Chicago Bears
- Head Coach: Matt Eberflus
- 2023 Season: 7-10
- Caleb Williams enters the spotlight, showcasing his potential against Trevor Lawrence.
Jacksonville Jaguars
- Head Coach: Doug Pederson
- 2023 Season: 9-8
- Trevor Lawrence is seeking consistency after recent narrow defeats.
New England Patriots
- Head Coach: Jerod Mayo
- 2023 Season: 1-3
- Aiming for stability, the Patriots are in a transitional phase following Bill Belichick’s storied tenure.
Global Expansion of the NFL
The NFL’s international tour will continue beyond London, as the league prepares for future games in Germany and its first ever game in Spain at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in 2025.
Conclusion
The 2024 NFL London Games promise not only compelling matchups but also the unique opportunity for fans to engage with interactive events surrounding the games. Fans can witness the games live on the day of the events, as the NFL showcases its ever-growing popularity across the globe.
With exciting matchups and various fan engagements planned, the NFL’s return to London this fall is set to be an unmissable celebration of American football.
