The 2025-26 NFL season kicked off with a clash between the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles and their divisional rival, the Dallas Cowboys. While Lincoln Financial Field was prepped to host Philly fans from 8:20 p.m. ET, it might be some time before fans see the game conclude.
Almost three quarters into the game, lightning near the venue had fans ducking for cover while players returned to the locker rooms. The game was suspended.
How Did NFL Fans React After Cowboys-Eagles Game Was Suspended Due to Weather?
With 4:44 remaining in the third quarter, the Cowboys-Eagles season opener was suspended. The Eagles were leading 24-20.
Fans were prepared to wait until play resumed, but few expected a delay that could last more than an hour.
Game alert: Cowboys-Eagles expected to be delayed until around 11:30pm ET.
— Underdog NFL (@UnderdogNFL) September 5, 2025
Though there was no fixed return timeline, reports stated that the game could resume around 11:30 p.m. ET.
Naturally, fans who had been waiting since before kickoff were frustrated. Some at the venue voiced their displeasure, while others watching from home chimed in on social media.
That’s crazy
— 𝙰ل𝚢𝚊𝚗𝚊𝄞 (@Ana_Rana6) September 5, 2025
“That’s crazy,” one fan wrote on X.
“We have work tomorrow,” another complained.
Several complained about the late timing, noting they would soon have to head to bed if the delay continued.
“Goodnight everyone,” one fan wrote.
“Man I’m going to bed,” another added.
— E DUB (@InEdWeTrust31) September 5, 2025
Another commented, “Past my bedtime.”
Others pointed out the chaos:
“This is a mess. @NFL,” one fan said.
Some even wanted players to play through the weather:
“What is this, baseball? soft af.”
Another fan noted: “Then they gotta warm up again it’s gonna be like midnight ffs.”
Still, a few users remained supportive, urging the NFL to take its time and saying they were ready to wait until after midnight to resume play.
What’s Next for Cowboys-Eagles?
Before the stoppage, the game had a chaotic start with Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter being ejected before the first play for unsportsmanlike conduct. Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley kept the Eagles in front, with Hurts rushing for two touchdowns on the team’s first two possessions and Barkley adding another rushing score in the first half.
On their side, the Cowboys capitalized on Carter’s absence, with Javonte Williams scoring two rushing touchdowns on their first two possessions.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time a season opener has been delayed due to lightning. Last year, when the Kansas City Chiefs faced the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, lightning forced a delay before kickoff at Arrowhead Stadium in Missouri.
Before the game was suspended, the Eagles had possession after cornerback Quinyon Mitchell recovered a fumble. If play resumes, they will face first-and-10 from their own 10-yard line.
