The NFL made a pair of minor but notable schedule changes for Week 6, impacting the broadcast window for two Sunday games.

Updated Week 6 Kickoff Times

• The matchup between the San Francisco 49ers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, originally set for 1:00 p.m. ET on CBS, has been moved to 4:25 p.m. ET on the same network.

• The New England Patriots vs. New Orleans Saints game will now be played at 1:00 p.m. ET, after previously being scheduled for the 4:25 p.m. ET window, also on CBS.

These shifts were made to optimize the national viewing slate and better balance the early and late afternoon game loads.

Week 6 Schedule Highlights

Aside from the two changes, the rest of the Week 6 NFL schedule remains intact and features several marquee matchups:

Thursday Night Football

• Eagles vs. Giants will kick off the week with a heated NFC East battle.

Sunday Morning (London Game)

• The Denver Broncos take on the New York Jets in London, continuing the NFL’s International Series.

Sunday Late Afternoon Slate

• In addition to 49ers-Buccaneers, Bengals vs. Packers will be another featured 4:25 p.m. ET CBS matchup with playoff implications.

Sunday Night Football

• A potential NFC playoff preview as the Detroit Lions face the Kansas City Chiefs in primetime.

Monday Night Football Doubleheader

Week 6 concludes with two Monday night games:

• Buffalo Bills vs. Atlanta Falcons

• Chicago Bears vs. Washington Commanders

Why These Schedule Changes Matter

Adjusting kickoff times can impact national broadcast reach, fantasy football lineups, and betting strategies. With 49ers-Bucs now slotted into the national late window, it becomes a higher-visibility game with major playoff implications.

The early shift for Patriots-Saints makes it more accessible for East Coast viewers, particularly those following a crowded AFC playoff picture.