The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the new season with mixed prospects after finishing with a 9-8 record and clinching the NFC South title last year. One notable addition to their roster is quarterback Baker Mayfield, who signed a three-year, $100 million contract during the offseason. Despite this high-profile acquisition, the Buccaneers are not expected to dominate their division. According to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds, they are not the favorites to win the NFC South.
Tide Turning in the NFC South
The Atlanta Falcons, on the other hand, have taken pole position as the NFC South favorites. With odds of -120 to secure the division and -196 to make the playoffs, the Falcons seem poised for a promising season. A significant factor contributing to this optimism is the offseason acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Falcons' management clearly believes that Cousins will be the catalyst for the team's success moving forward.
Eric Cohen's Crystal Ball
Turning our attention to NFL predictions, SportsLine NFL expert Eric Cohen had a remarkable 39-28 streak last season. From making accurate game predictions to forecasting surprising winners, Cohen’s insights have proven invaluable. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," says one of his followers. Cohen’s predictions this year also promise some intriguing takes, including a potential Super Bowl result that offers almost 100-1 odds and a win total bet that pays back plus money. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," he enthusiastically suggests.
Rams Aim for Consistency
The Los Angeles Rams remain a focal point in the NFC. Under head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have made five playoff appearances in seven seasons. After winning at least 10 games three times in the past four seasons, including a 12-5 record in the 2021-22 season that culminated in a Super Bowl win, they’re looking to sustain their success. While they've only secured the NFC West title once in the last five years, they will return the majority of their offensive production from the previous season, with running back Kyren Williams leading the charge. Williams tallied 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns on 228 rushing attempts last season.
Tough Times in New England
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are grappling with adversity. The team has recorded losing records in three of the past four seasons, finishing with a dismal 4-13 record last year. A major shakeup saw the departure of long-time head coach Bill Belichick, with Jerod Mayo stepping in as his successor. Eric Cohen’s outlook for the Patriots’ 2024 season is anything but optimistic, predicting a grim outcome with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick. "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots," reads his assessment, capturing the uphill battle that Mayo’s squad will face. Additionally, three of the Patriots' first four games will be on the road, adding another layer of difficulty to their already challenging situation.
While several teams across the NFL are navigating transitions and setting expectations, the 2024 season is shaping up to be another thrilling chapter in the sport’s history. With changing rosters, new coaching dynamics, and a blend of veteran expertise and youthful energy, fans have plenty to look forward to.