The NFL has officially announced a kickoff time change for this Sunday’s matchup between the Green Bay Packers and the Arizona Cardinals, citing the Charlie Kirk Memorial Event scheduled earlier that day at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Originally slated for a 2:25 p.m. MT start, the highly anticipated interconference clash will now begin at 6:45 p.m. MT, giving event staff and local authorities additional time to coordinate security, traffic, and stadium operations between the two major events. According to the league’s statement, the adjustment was made “out of respect for the memorial event and in the interest of public safety and fan convenience.”
While such schedule shifts are rare during the regular season, both teams have taken the news in stride. Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur addressed the change during Friday’s media availability, assuring fans that the team’s preparation won’t be disrupted.
“We control what we can control,” LaFleur said. “Whether it’s noon or night, our focus is on executing clean football and bringing our best to Arizona.”
Quarterback Jordan Love, who has been steadily proving himself as Green Bay’s new franchise leader, said he welcomes the opportunity to perform under the lights.
“There’s something special about prime-time games,” Love said with a grin. “The energy hits different, and you know the whole league is watching. We’re ready for that moment.”
The Charlie Kirk Memorial Event, which will take place earlier in the day, is expected to draw tens of thousands of attendees. Glendale officials are advising both event-goers and football fans to arrive early, use public transportation when possible, and follow parking guidance to avoid congestion near the stadium.
On the field, this game carries serious playoff implications. The Packers (4–1) are off to one of their strongest starts in recent seasons, with their young offense gaining rhythm behind Love’s efficient passing and running back Aaron Jones’ explosive versatility. Meanwhile, the Cardinals (2–3) are fighting to regain footing in the NFC West, relying heavily on quarterback Kyler Murray’s mobility and big-play ability.
Analysts expect a chess match between LaFleur’s offensive creativity and the Cardinals’ aggressive defensive schemes led by head coach Jonathan Gannon. The Packers’ offensive line will be under pressure to protect Love from Arizona’s blitz packages, while Green Bay’s defense — anchored by Jaire Alexander and Rashan Gary — will look to contain Murray’s trademark scrambles.
Despite the schedule shuffle, fans from both sides are buzzing with anticipation. “A night game in the desert? That’s football heaven,” one Packers supporter wrote on X. “We travel anywhere, anytime. Go Pack Go!”
Inside the locker room, the message remains simple and unwavering.
“Every snap, every drive, every roar from the crowd — it all fuels us,” said veteran linebacker De’Vondre Campbell. “We’re built for these moments.”
Kickoff for the Packers vs. Cardinals showdown is officially set for 6:45 p.m. MT at State Farm Stadium. Fans are encouraged to check the updated schedule, injury report, and broadcast details on the Packers’ official website or the NFL app.
