Goff, with some help from Green Bay running back Josh Jacobs through an NFL trivia challenge, demonstrated his passing skills by hitting every target and more in just one minute and thirty seconds.
He scored 44 points for the NFC, edging out teammate Sam Darnold of Minnesota by five points.
Goff, Darnold, and Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield easily outperformed the AFC’s quarterback trio of Cincinnati’s Joe Burrow, New England’s Drake Maye, and Pittsburgh’s Russell Wilson.
The passing game was the highlight of the six events on the first night.
The NFC also won two out of three relay races, a skill contest called “satisfying catches,” and a game show for NFL teammates called “helmet harmony,” which had a format similar to “The Newlywed Game.”
The two conferences split the two dodgeball games, and defensive tackle Quinnen Williams of the New York Jets secured the AFC’s win in “the big spike” with a powerful football throw.
Notable moments included the Bosa brothers, Joey and Nick, turning their relay leg into a speed-walking race, while Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase made one-handed catches on the first three throws in the “satisfying catches” contest.
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) throws a pass against the Washington Commanders during the second half of an NFL divisional playoff game, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, in Detroit.
Four additional skill events will air Sunday, each worth three points, before the Pro Bowl Games culminate in a flag football showdown.
“We’ve got the lead, and that’s good,” NFC coach Eli Manning said.
“It just reflects the heart, preparation, and commitment of these guys. They’ve been working hard. They’re excited for this. They want the three-peat.
Everyone’s talking about Kansas City next week, but right now, all eyes are on the NFC aiming for the three-peat at the Pro Bowl.”