As NFL fans gear up for the 2024 season, several teams have made significant changes and face exciting prospects. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, fresh off a division-winning season, have seen notable shifts in their lineup. Similarly, the Atlanta Falcons have become the favorites to clinch the NFC South title. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams remain a formidable force under the leadership of Sean McVay, and the New England Patriots are navigating significant transitions.
Buccaneers' New Directions
After clinching the NFC South title with a 9-8 record last season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have generated buzz with the acquisition of quarterback Baker Mayfield. Signed to a three-year, $100 million contract this offseason, Mayfield is set to bring fresh energy to an already competitive team. However, despite their division win last season, the Buccaneers aren't the favorites to win the NFC South. That title goes to the Atlanta Falcons, according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds.
Falcons Dominate NFC South Predictions
The Atlanta Falcons have emerged as the favorites in the NFC South, with odds of -120 to win the division and -196 to secure a playoff spot. A major contributing factor to this optimism is the acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins during the offseason. The addition of Cousins is expected to provide the stability and experience the Falcons need to dominate their division rivals.
Confidence in Cohen's Predictions
Insight into the upcoming season has been provided by SportsLine NFL expert Eric Cohen, who finished last season with an impressive 39-28 streak in his NFL predictions. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," echoes the sentiment of many in the betting community who have come to rely on his forecasts. This season, Cohen has gone further by predicting each team's final record for the 2024 season in a comprehensive grid format. His predictions hint at surprising outcomes, including a potential Super Bowl result that pays almost 100-1 and a win total that pays back plus-money.
Rams Steadfast Under McVay
Over in Los Angeles, the Rams continue to be a team to watch. Head coach Sean McVay has guided the team to five playoff appearances in seven seasons, highlighting the consistency and competitive edge under his leadership. Although they have only claimed the NFC West title once in the past five years, the Rams boast a noteworthy track record of success, including a 12-5 season and a Super Bowl victory in the 2021-22 season.
This season, the Rams will see most of their offensive production return, which could be a pivotal factor in their ongoing competitiveness. Running back Kyren Williams is coming off a stellar performance with 228 rushing attempts, 1,144 yards, and 12 touchdowns last year, exemplifying the potent offensive threat the Rams possess.
Patriots Face Uncertain Future
In stark contrast, the New England Patriots are undergoing a period of transformation. They have experienced losing records in three of their past four seasons, culminating in a disappointing 4-13 record in 2023. The departure of Bill Belichick as head coach marks the end of an era, with Jerod Mayo stepping in to lead the team. Cohen's predictions for the Patriots are particularly grim, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick.
The road ahead is daunting for New England, who will face three of their first four games on the road in the 2024 season. The Patriots' ability to adapt under new leadership will be closely scrutinized as they seek to rebuild their legacy.
As the new season dawns, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these narratives unfold. From the Buccaneers and Falcons' divisional battle to the Rams' quest for consistency and the Patriots' bid for resurgence, the 2024 NFL season promises a mix of thrilling moments and dramatic shifts.