Patriots reportedly may not get typical Thursday night season opener for defending Super Bowl champion

75756A5E-120A-4932-810C-2FD980DB785E

ATLANTA -- If you're planning on the Patriots to play on Thursday in Week 1 like most defending Super Bowl champs in recent years, don't count on it.

According to Jeff Duncan of NOLA.com, the NFL is planning to have the Packers and Bears open the season to recognize the NFL’s 100th anniversary. This would likely mean the Patriots will open the 2019 season at home on Sunday night.

As for a potential opponent, keep an eye on the Chiefs or Steelers.

The Patriots beat the Rams, 13-3 in Super Bowl LIII Sunday night.