The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, fresh off an NFC South-winning season with a respectable 9-8 record, are setting high expectations as they move into the new NFL season. The team's significant offseason acquisition, quarterback Baker Mayfield, signed a three-year, $100 million contract, adding a notable boost to the roster. However, despite their recent success and Mayfield's high-profile signing, the Buccaneers aren't the favorites to top their division, according to the latest Super Bowl odds for 2025.
Instead, that prestigious title belongs to the Atlanta Falcons, who are currently slated as the frontrunners to win the NFC South. The Falcons' chances are backed by odds of -120 to clinch the division and -196 to secure a playoff berth. A major contributing factor to their elevated status is the acquisition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins during the offseason. Cousins' experience and leadership are anticipated to significantly enhance the Falcons' playoff aspirations.
Understanding these dynamics is NFL expert Eric Cohen, a professional recognized for his sharp analyses and accurate predictions. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," he stated confidently. Last season, Cohen's predictions led to an impressive 39-28 streak, cementing his reputation in the industry. This year, Cohen has offered comprehensive insights into every team's prospects for the 2024 NFL season, captured in a meticulous grid format.
The Rams' Resilience
The Los Angeles Rams are another team to watch. They've demonstrated notable consistency, winning at least 10 games in three of the past four seasons, including a triumphant 12-5 run in the 2021-22 season that culminated in a Super Bowl victory. Head Coach Sean McVay has had a significant impact, steering the team to five playoff appearances in seven seasons. However, the Rams have only managed to secure the NFC West title once in the past five years.
Looking ahead, the Rams are expected to retain the majority of their offensive firepower from last year, a factor that could be crucial in their quest for another successful season. Running back Kyren Williams stands out as a key player, having racked up 1,144 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 228 attempts last season.
Patriots Facing Tough Transition
In stark contrast, the New England Patriots find themselves in a period of rebuilding. After experiencing losing records in three of their past four seasons, they hit a new low with a 4-13 record in 2023. The departure of legendary head coach Bill Belichick marks the beginning of a new era for the Patriots, now under the leadership of Jerod Mayo. Mayo has the challenging task of reshaping the team, and the start to the 2024 season doesn't make it any easier, with three of their first four games on the road.
Eric Cohen's predictions reflect the tough road ahead for the Patriots. "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick," a sobering forecast that underscores the magnitude of the challenges they face.
For fans and bettors, Cohen's insights offer not just forecasts but opportunities. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," tantalizes Cohen, with exclusive predictions that include a potential Super Bowl result offering nearly 100-1 odds and enticing win totals with plus-money payouts.
As teams like the Buccaneers, Falcons, and Rams navigate the ups and downs of the NFL season, expert insights and educated predictions serve as invaluable guides through the unpredictability of football. The blend of new acquisitions, coaching changes, and ongoing strategies will ultimately shape the unfolding drama of the 2024 season. Whether it’s a team striving for a return to glory or another working to rebuild its legacy, the NFL promises yet another year of electrifying action and unforeseen twists.