The NFL season kicked off with a thrilling matchup where the Kansas City Chiefs narrowly defeated the Baltimore Ravens 27-20, thanks to a controversial final play that was overturned by a video review. As the Chiefs aim for an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl victory, quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressed excitement about their potential, even with new players like rookie Xavier Worthy making their debut. Despite the league's immense popularity, concerns about the NFL's pacing and excessive commercial breaks have surfaced, with critics noting that only 11 minutes of actual play occur in an average game. Furthermore, the NFL's potential expansion into Europe remains uncertain, hinging on advancements in supersonic travel which could facilitate quicker team relocations for games. Meanwhile, the league continues to thrive financially, boasting over 410 million viewers and $100 billion in wagers last season, solidifying its status as a dominant force in sports entertainment. The unique blend of wealth, power, and fan engagement keeps the NFL at the forefront of American culture.