The NFL spotlight shines on Berlin as the Indianapolis Colts face off against the Atlanta Falcons at the historic Olympiastadion on November 5, 2023. This matchup marks the league’s fifth regular-season game in Germany and the first to take place in the capital city, following previous events in Munich and Frankfurt.
The Colts enter this game with a record of 7-2, tied for the second-best in the NFL alongside the Denver Broncos and New England Patriots. However, they come off a disappointing Week 9 performance, where they suffered a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers after turning the ball over six times. This marked the highest turnover count for any team in a single game this season, with quarterback Daniel Jones contributing to five of those turnovers.
Given the competitive landscape, the stakes are high for the Colts. According to ESPN Analytics, they hold a 27% chance of securing the AFC’s No. 1 seed as they approach kickoff. A victory would elevate that probability to 33%, while a loss would drop it to 15%.
In contrast, the Falcons arrive in Berlin with international experience, having played four games outside the United States previously, with a record of 2-2 in those matchups. Their latest international outing saw them fall to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London earlier this season. The Falcons aim to prevent the Colts from suffering consecutive losses, a scenario that has yet to occur for Indianapolis this year.
As both teams prepare for the game, players engaged in sightseeing around the city, soaking in the local culture before stepping onto the field. The atmosphere in Berlin is charged with excitement, as fans gather to support their teams in this unique setting.
This event not only showcases the NFL’s commitment to expanding its global footprint but also highlights the growing popularity of American football in Europe. The matchup between the Colts and Falcons promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to make a statement on this international stage.
