As we edge closer to the new NFL season, myriad narratives are emerging, showcasing significant changes and strategic maneuvers from teams across the league.
The Buccaneers' Ambitious Season
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are riding the momentum of a successful NFC South-winning season, finishing with a 9-8 record. Keeping the spirit high, they secured quarterback Baker Mayfield with a substantial three-year, $100 million contract this offseason. Despite this significant investment in their quarterback, the Buccaneers aren't expected to repeat their division-winning feat according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds.
Falcons in Pole Position
Rather, it's the Atlanta Falcons that are anticipated to dominate the NFC South. The Falcons, now led by quarterback Kirk Cousins, are the favorites with odds of -120 to win the division and -196 to make the playoffs. This offseason acquisition of Cousins, known for his consistency and experience, raises the expectations for the Falcons, positioning them at the forefront of their division battle.
Insights from Eric Cohen
When it comes to predictions, Eric Cohen of SportsLine stands out. Finishing last season with an impressive 39-28 streak in NFL predictions, Cohen has established himself as a trusted voice in the realm of NFL analysis. As Cohen highlights, "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big." With this confidence, fans eagerly check which surprising winners Cohen picks, which he suggests could include a potential Super Bowl result that pays almost 100-1 and a win total that pays back plus-money.
Los Angeles Rams: Consistency Amidst Change
Turning our attention to the West Coast, the Los Angeles Rams have a rich mix of recent successes and challenges. Under the leadership of head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have achieved playoff appearances five times in the past seven seasons and clinched the Super Bowl with a 12-5 record in the 2021-22 season. Despite this, they have only secured the NFC West title once in the past five years, indicating a division that's fiercely competitive.
One reason for optimism among Rams fans is the retention of their key offensive players from last year, including running back Kyren Williams, who had an outstanding performance with 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. This consistency in their offensive lineup could prove pivotal as they vie for supremacy in the NFC West.
The Patriots' New Era
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots face a season of considerable change and challenge. The franchise has experienced losing records in three of their past four seasons, culminating in a disappointing 4-13 record in 2023. This downturn has led to the end of an era with the departure of legendary head coach Bill Belichick, replaced by Jerod Mayo at the helm.
Under Mayo's leadership, the Patriots start the 2024 season with a daunting schedule, playing three of their first four games on the road. Eric Cohen's analysis paints a bleak picture for the Patriots, with a prediction of a grim 2-15 record in their first year without Belichick. He notes, "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick."
As teams prepare and fans speculate, the upcoming NFL season promises a wealth of excitement, strategic plays, and the possibility of surprising results. Analysts like Eric Cohen continue to provide depth and perspective, adding to the intense anticipation and drama that is quintessential to the NFL experience.