As the NFL offseason evolves, several teams have made significant moves that could shape their futures. In the NFC South, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons have garnered attention for different reasons. The Buccaneers are coming off an NFC South-winning season with a 9-8 record, and quarterback Baker Mayfield has inked a three-year, $100 million contract in the offseason. Despite these efforts, the Buccaneers are not favored to win the NFC South according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds.
Falcons Emerge as NFC South Favorites
Instead, the Atlanta Falcons have risen as the favorites to claim the NFC South title. The oddsmakers have given the Falcons odds of -120 to win the division and -196 to make the playoffs. A pivotal move for the Falcons was acquiring quarterback Kirk Cousins during the offseason, which has significantly bolstered their prospects. Coupled with a strategic approach to the draft and free agency, the Falcons appear poised for a breakout season.
Eric Cohen's Insightful Predictions
SportsLine NFL expert Eric Cohen, who finished last season with a commendable 39-28 streak in his predictions, has weighed in on the upcoming 2024 NFL season. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," highlighting Cohen's accuracy and the value of his insights. His comprehensive grid for the 2024 season forecasts each team's final record, providing a valuable resource for fans and analysts alike.
According to Cohen, the Patriots are facing a particularly challenging season. He predicts a grim outcome for them, estimating they will finish with a dismal 2-15 record in their first year post-Bill Belichick. The legendary coach’s departure has left a significant void, and new head coach Jerod Mayo has a daunting task ahead. The Patriots have experienced losing records in three of their past four seasons, culminating in a 4-13 record in 2023. Further compounding their challenges, three of their first four games in the 2024 season will be on the road.
Rams Look to Maintain Momentum
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams have sustained a high level of performance under head coach Sean McVay. Having won at least 10 games three times in the past four seasons, including a 12-5 record in the 2021-22 season that led to a Super Bowl victory, McVay's tenure has been marked by success. The Rams have made five playoff appearances in seven years with McVay at the helm. However, they have only secured the NFC West title once in the past five years, highlighting the competitive nature of their division.
With most of their offensive production returning, the Rams are well-positioned to continue their successful run. Running back Kyren Williams, who had 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, remains a key component of their offensive strategy. This continuity and depth could be crucial for the Rams as they aim to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.
Potential Surprises and Betting Insights
Eric Cohen's predictions also hint at potential surprises. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," he teases, underscoring the intrigue and unpredictability that characterizes the NFL. Among the more tantalizing predictions, Cohen includes a potential Super Bowl result that pays almost 100-1 and a win total that pays back plus-money. Such prospects will undoubtedly capture the interest of bettors and fans looking to capitalize on under-the-radar opportunities.
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, teams are fine-tuning their rosters and strategies, hoping to seize their moment. From the Falcons' bid for NFC South dominance to the Rams' quest to sustain their winning ways, and the Patriots' struggle to adjust to a new era, the stage is set for a compelling season. With experts like Eric Cohen providing sharp analysis and predictions, fans have a wealth of information to navigate the excitement and uncertainties of the NFL.