As the 2024 NFL season draws nearer, anticipation is building around some key developments in the league. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are riding off a successful NFC South-winning campaign with a 9-8 record. However, despite last season's triumph, the Buccaneers find themselves not favored to win the division this year, according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds. Instead, the Atlanta Falcons are in the spotlight, boasting a significant offseason acquisition that has dramatically shifted expectations.
Baker Mayfield Joins Buccaneers
In a surprising turn, the Buccaneers signed quarterback Baker Mayfield to a substantial three-year, $100 million contract this offseason. This move underscores Tampa Bay's commitment to bolstering their offensive capabilities. The Buccaneers' decision to invest heavily in Mayfield signals their ambition to build on their previous season and secure another playoff run.
Falcons Emerging as NFC South Favorites
Contrastingly, the Atlanta Falcons are now favored to clinch the NFC South title. The Falcons' odds stand at -120 to win the division and -196 to make the playoffs, reflecting a surge in confidence driven by their acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins. This addition has evidently boosted the team's prospects, leading to high expectations from both fans and analysts alike.
Eric Cohen's NFL Predictions
Eric Cohen, a well-regarded SportsLine NFL expert, has been vocal about his insights for the upcoming season. Known for finishing last season with an impressive 39-28 streak in his NFL predictions, Cohen has utilized his analytical prowess to forecast each team's final record in 2024. He has warned fans against underestimating surprising outcomes.
In fact, Cohen has highlighted an intriguing Super Bowl prediction with a potential result paying almost 100-1 and a win total promising plus-money returns. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," reads one assessment of his previous work. He also suggested that fans eager to see his full slate of surprising winners should turn to SportsLine.
Patriots in Transition
The New England Patriots face a period of adjustment following a series of challenging seasons. After experiencing losing records in three of their past four campaigns, the Patriots recorded a 4-13 mark in 2023. The departure of legendary head coach Bill Belichick adds to the team's uncertainties. Stepping into the role is new head coach Jerod Mayo, who is tasked with steering the Patriots back on track.
With three of their first four games in the 2024 season set to be on the road, the Patriots have a tough start ahead. Cohen's outlook for the Patriots is particularly grim, predicting a 2-15 finish in their first year without Belichick — a stark departure from their storied recent history.
Los Angeles Rams: Building on Past Success
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams continue to be a formidable force. The Rams achieved at least 10 wins in three of the past four seasons and captured the Super Bowl title during the 2021-22 season. Led by head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have secured five playoff appearances in seven seasons, although they have only won the NFC West once in the past five years.
As they prepare for the upcoming season, the Rams will retain the majority of their offensive production from last year. Running back Kyren Williams, who logged 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns, remains a key player in their strategy. With this potent offense, the Rams aim to reclaim the dominance they have demonstrated in recent seasons.
With so many intriguing storylines unfolding, the NFL's forthcoming season promises to be one filled with thrilling developments and unpredictable outcomes. As fans eagerly anticipate the action, experts like Eric Cohen will undoubtedly provide essential insights and forecasts that will shape expectations and fuel the excitement around the league.