Week 3 of the NFL season features a slate of compelling matchups across the league, with five games broadcast on FOX, all kicking off on Sunday, September 27, 2026. The early slate includes Carolina at Cleveland, the Los Angeles Chargers at Buffalo, and the New York Jets at Detroit, all set for 1:00 PM ET. The late window features Seattle at Washington and Arizona at San Francisco, both starting at 4:05 PM ET.
Early Afternoon Games
The Carolina Panthers, entering at 1-1, face the Cleveland Browns, also at 1-1, at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland. Carolina boasts the league's top passing offense, averaging 312.5 yards per game, led by quarterback Bryce Young, who has thrown for 648 yards and six touchdowns. The Browns' defense has allowed 26.5 points per game.
At Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, the 0-2 Los Angeles Chargers will travel to face the 2-0 Buffalo Bills. The Bills have been dominant offensively, scoring 77 points without a turnover and converting over 57% of third downs, spearheaded by Josh Allen's 582 passing yards and five touchdowns. The Chargers' defense has allowed 393 yards and 26 points per game.
In Detroit, the 0-2 New York Jets will meet the 1-1 Detroit Lions at Ford Field. The Lions' offense ranks first in passing touchdowns and averages 31 points per game, with Jared Goff leading the charge with 533 passing yards and six touchdowns. The Jets' defense has been strong, allowing only 15 points per game.
Late Afternoon Showdowns
The Seattle Seahawks, with a 2-0 record, travel to face the 0-2 Washington Commanders at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Seattle has allowed a mere 17 points through two games, showcasing a defense with four interceptions and five sacks. Washington's offense, which averages 157 rushing yards per game, will start Marcus Mariota at quarterback following an injury to Jayden Daniels.
The Arizona Cardinals, at 1-1 after a significant loss to Seattle, visit the undefeated San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium. San Francisco's offense has been potent, averaging 31 points and 380.5 yards per game, with Brock Purdy leading an offense that has yet to allow a sack on their quarterback. The Cardinals' defense has allowed an average of 22.5 points per game.