Things the NFL loves: Penalties, letting the Philadelphia Eagles run the most boring play in history, and putting the Green Bay Packers on the road in Week 1.
The Packers have started the season at Lambeau Field only three times in the past 13 years, and while none of their games have been officially placed on the 2026 schedule yet, one early clue could hint at the continuation of this trend.
On September 6, 2026, just three days before the start of the regular season, the Wisconsin Badgers will play against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Lambeau Field. While this doesn't guarantee the Packers will start on the road, there's reason to believe they will.
Wisconsin's game at Lambeau Field likely increases the chances of the Packers starting on the road in Week 1
Sure, the Packers could host in Week 1. Their home opener would come at least seven days after the Badgers' game. However, when Wisconsin last played at Lambeau back in 2016, also one week before the NFL regular season, the Packers began their campaign with back-to-back road contests.
Green Bay will host nine games at Lambeau in 2026, so it makes sense to give the ground staff additional time to make sure it's in pristine condition before a lengthy regular season.
Again, nothing is confirmed, but it would make logical sense for the Packers to begin on the road.
And, for us Packers fans, that's about as frustrating as it gets. Green Bay kick-started last year with back-to-back home games, but that was the first time Lambeau hosted a Week 1 contest since 2018. Mike McCarthy was still the head coach.
Starting on the road makes it harder to begin the season with some momentum. The league often gives them a tough divisional road game to kick off the year. They began the regular season in Chicago in 2023, in Minnesota in 2022, and also in Minnesota in 2020.
Last season proved the difference it can make. The Packers hosted the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders, and raced out to a 2-0 start.
If they begin on the road again, and it is an if at this stage, there are some positives.
Green Bay gets nine games at home in 2026. After Week 1, nine of the remaining 16 contests would be at Lambeau Field, meaning more cold-weather games for opponents to contend with.
Time will tell how the schedule shakes out, but Wisconsin's return to Lambeau could push the Packers' home opener beyond Week 1.
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