The NFL’s Week 1 finale carries more than just the usual drama of divisional rivals under the lights. When the Chicago Bears host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football, it marks the start of Ben Johnson’s tenure in Chicago and the NFL debut of quarterback J.J. McCarthy for Minnesota. But for millions tuning in, the broadcast team also sets the stage.
What Time Do ABC/ESPN’s MNF Pregame Shows Start?
Kickoff at Soldier Field is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET (7:15 p.m. CT) on Monday, September 8, 2025, with ESPN and ABC delivering the national broadcast.
Streaming will also be available via services like FuboTV and NFL+, and ESPN2 will present the popular alternate “Manningcast,” hosted by NFL greats Peyton and Eli Manning.
Pre-game coverage kicks off well before the whistle, and YouTube TV subscribers, along with other providers that carry ESPN and ABC, will have access to both the main broadcast and the alternate Manningcast feed leading into kickoff.
Who Are the Game Announcers for Tonight’s MNF Showdown?
ESPN sends out its flagship MNF team tonight. Joe Buck handles play-by-play, with Troy Aikman offering color commentary. Sidelines are covered by Lisa Salters and Laura Rutledge, marking Rutledge’s first full season as a co-lead sideline reporter with Salters as part of ESPN’s expanded MNF coverage.
This marks Buck and Aikman’s third NFL season as the core booth pairing on ESPN after moving from FOX. Salters, a veteran with over two decades of MNF experience, brings depth and nuance, while Rutledge adds dynamic reporting and continuity as she combines her MNF role with hosting duties on “NFL Live” and “SEC Nation.”
Let’s watch some football together. ManningCast Mondays are back. pic.twitter.com/gSKwfntlpa
— Omaha Productions (@OmahaProd) September 2, 2025
Caleb Williams enters his second NFL season and first under new head coach Ben Johnson in his first prime-time game. For Minnesota, it’s J.J. McCarthy’s NFL debut and his first opportunity to stake a claim as the franchise quarterback. This broadcast team ensures every storyline, adjustment, and highlight lands powerfully at home.
On ESPN2, the ManningCast offers fans a lighter, conversational format. Peyton and Eli Manning are set to welcome an eclectic guest lineup that includes Giants running back Saquon Barkley, Hall of Famer Randy Moss, and Hollywood icon Bill Murray, who’s expected to bring his signature humor to the broadcast.
Kickoff is at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN and ABC, with Buck, Aikman, Salters, and Rutledge guiding the main feed. Meanwhile, the Mannings headline the alternate stream. With both sides fueled by new leadership and expectations, the broadcast may be as compelling as what unfolds on the field.
