The 2025 Pro Bowl Games kicked off with high-energy events and thrilling head-to-head challenges between the NFC and AFC. As the dust settled on Thursday’s opening competitions, Eli Manning’s NFC squad held a 14-7 lead over Peyton Manning’s AFC team. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights and key moments that set the tone for the weekend.
NFC Starts Strong with Passing and Catching Events
The NFC opened the Pro Bowl Games by dominating the “Passing the Test” event. Quarterbacks aimed for both moving and stationary targets, and the NFC’s Jared Goff led the charge with an impressive 44 points.
Sam Darnold followed closely with 39 points, giving the NFC the top two scores of the contest and three points toward the overall standings.
Next, the “Satisfying Catches” event saw standout performances from the NFC, particularly Justin Jefferson, who set the pace. On the AFC side, Ja’Marr Chase showed flashes of brilliance by making three consecutive one-handed catches.
However, a few missed opportunities, including a failed diving catch and Derek Stingley Jr.’s struggles with the mascot hands challenge, left the AFC trailing. The NFC secured victory with a combined time of 1:57.
AFC Strikes Back in the “Big Spike” Competition
The AFC found a bright spot in the “Big Spike” competition, where players attempted to deliver the most powerful spike possible. Williams came out on top with a score of 982, barely edging out Dexter Lawrence of the NFC, who scored 979. This narrow victory helped the AFC trim the NFC’s lead to 6-3, keeping them within striking distance.
Teammate Knowledge Challenge: Packers Lead NFC to Victory
One of the more entertaining events of the night tested how well players knew their teammates, reminiscent of “The Newlywed Game.” The AFC and NFC traded points throughout, but the Green Bay Packers’ strong chemistry helped the NFC claim another victory, extending their lead to 9-3.
Relay Race Highlights: Bosa Brothers Steal the Show
The relay races were filled with excitement and unexpected moments, but fumbled baton exchanges plagued both teams. The first heat was particularly close, with the AFC dropping the baton just before the final leg.
The most memorable moment came during the second heat when brothers Joey and Nick Bosa faced off. Instead of sprinting, the two playfully speed-walked, drawing laughs from fans. Joey Bosa ultimately gained the early edge for the AFC.
Dodgeball Drama: NFC and AFC Split Wins
The evening concluded with a fan-favorite dodgeball event. The AFC dominated the first game, with Seattle Seahawks defensive lineman Leonard Williams left as the NFC’s final hope in a 1-on-5 situation before being eliminated.
However, the NFC bounced back in the second game, flipping the script. Dallas Cowboys guard Tyler Smith made a crucial catch to secure victory, leaving Colts guard Quenton Nelson as the AFC’s last eliminated player. This win kept the NFC comfortably ahead, closing the night with a 14-7 lead.
With the NFC holding a 14-7 advantage, the AFC faces an uphill battle heading into Sunday’s events. However, the games have shown that momentum can shift quickly, and Peyton Manning’s team still has time to close the gap.
As the Pro Bowl weekend progresses, fans can expect more entertaining and unpredictable moments as NFL stars showcase their athleticism and competitive spirit.
