Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff delivered a stellar performance in the “passing the test” event, helping the NFC secure a 14-7 lead over the AFC on the opening night of the Pro Bowl Games on Thursday.
Goff, with some assistance from Green Bay running back Josh Jacobs in an NFL trivia contest, showcased his passing accuracy by hitting every target and more within a minute and 30 seconds. His 44-point effort outpaced teammate Sam Darnold of Minnesota by five points.
Goff, Darnold, and Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield easily outperformed the AFC’s quarterback trio of Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow, New England’s Drake Maye, and Pittsburgh’s Russell Wilson.
The passing competition stood out among the six events held on opening night. The NFC also claimed victories in two of three relay races, a skills challenge called “satisfying catches,” and a game show titled “helmet harmony,” which resembled “The Newlywed Game.”
The AFC and NFC split two dodgeball games, while New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams gave the AFC a win in “the big spike” with a powerful football slam.
Notable moments included Joey and Nick Bosa speed-walking their relay leg and Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase making one-handed grabs on his first three attempts in the “satisfying catches” event.
Four additional skills events, each worth three points, will be broadcast on Sunday before the Pro Bowl Games conclude with a flag football showdown.
“We’ve got the lead, and that’s good,” NFC coach Eli Manning said. “It just shows the heart, the preparation, everything, the commitment of these guys. They’ve been grinding. They’re looking forward to this. They want the three-peat. (Everyone) has been talking about Kansas City next week with a three-peat. Really, all eyes are on the Pro Bowl for the three-peat (for the) NFC right now.”
