Detroit’s Jared Goff put on an almost perfect display during the opening night of the Pro Bowl Games, leading the NFC to a 14-7 lead over the AFC. Goff, alongside Green Bay’s Josh Jacobs, dominated the NFL trivia contest, before showcasing his passing accuracy, hitting every target and more in just 90 seconds. His performance earned the NFC 44 points, five more than teammate Sam Darnold of Minnesota.
Goff, Darnold, and Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield easily outshone the AFC quarterbacks, including Joe Burrow (Cincinnati), Drake Maye (New England), and Russell Wilson (Pittsburgh). The passing challenge stole the show, while the NFC also triumphed in two of the three relay races, a “satisfying catches” challenge, and a game show called “helmet harmony,” reminiscent of “The Newlywed Game.”
The teams split the dodgeball contests, with the AFC claiming a victory thanks to Quinnen Williams’ powerful “big spike” throw. Other memorable moments included the Bosa brothers, Joey and Nick, turning their relay leg into a speed-walking session, and Bengals’ Ja’Marr Chase catching three consecutive one-handed passes in the “satisfying catches” contest.
Sunday will feature four more skill events, each worth three points, before the Pro Bowl wraps up with a flag football game.
“We’ve got the lead, and that’s great,” said NFC coach Eli Manning. “It speaks to the heart and commitment of these guys. They’re working hard for the three-peat. Everyone’s talking about Kansas City next week, but right now, all eyes are on the NFC aiming for the three-peat here at the Pro Bowl.”
