The NFL has begun unveiling portions of the 2026 regular-season schedule, and one of the most anticipated early matchups has been confirmed: the New Orleans Saints will travel to Detroit to face the Lions in Week 1.
According to Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.football, the NFC rivals will kick off the season at Ford Field. The exact kickoff time for the game has not yet been announced.
Detroit’s Week 2 opponent was previously revealed as the Buffalo Bills, who will host the Lions at Highmark Stadium on Thursday Night Football.
Recent History Between Lions and Saints
The last meeting between the Lions and Saints took place in 2023 at the Superdome in New Orleans. Detroit secured a 33-28 victory in that game, with quarterback Jared Goff throwing for 213 yards and two touchdowns.
2025 Season Context
Both teams enter the 2026 season with momentum after underwhelming 2025 campaigns. The Lions finished 9-8 and missed the playoffs, while the Saints ended the year 6-11 under first-year head coach Kellen Moore.
"This Week 1 contest is a sneaky intriguing matchup between a pair of 2026 postseason hopefuls."
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