The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are embarking on a new NFL season with high hopes but tempered expectations. Fresh off an NFC South-winning campaign with a 9-8 record, the Buccaneers are still finding their footing in the post-Tom Brady era. A key move this offseason has been the signing of quarterback Baker Mayfield to a lucrative three-year, $100 million contract, which the team hopes will solidify their offense. However, despite the significant investment, the Buccaneers are not the favorites to clinch the division this year, according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds.
The Atlanta Falcons have emerged as the frontrunners in the NFC South, largely due to some strategic offseason maneuvers. With odds of -120 to win the division and -196 to make the playoffs, the Falcons are poised for success. The addition of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins bolsters their roster, offering them a steadier hand under center. This acquisition could be pivotal, shifting the balance of power within the division.
Noted for his insightful NFL predictions, SportsLine expert Eric Cohen has had an impressive track record. Finishing last season with a commendable 39-28 streak, Cohen's expertise is widely respected. Cohen has also predicted each team's final record for the 2024 NFL season, and his projections are closely watched by fans and analysts alike. As he puts it, "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big." His forecasts include some surprising winners and a potential Super Bowl result with nearly 100-1 odds, along with a win total bet that offers plus-money returns. For those eager to capitalize on his insights, he recommends checking out the predictions exclusively at SportsLine.
One of the teams featured prominently in Cohen's predictions is the Los Angeles Rams. Despite winning at least 10 games in three of the past four seasons and capturing the Super Bowl in the 2021-22 season with a 12-5 record, the Rams have experienced fluctuating fortunes. Under head coach Sean McVay, the Rams have secured five playoff appearances in seven seasons, but they have only clinched the NFC West title once in the past five years. However, they benefit from stability, with much of their offensive production returning from last season. Running back Kyren Williams, a critical player, recorded 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns last year, signaling strong continuity and prospects for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are entering a period of significant transition. Having endured three losing seasons in the past four years, including a 4-13 record in 2023, the Patriots are in uncharted territory. The departure of legendary head coach Bill Belichick marks the end of an era. Jerod Mayo steps into the role as the new head coach, tasked with reviving the team's fortunes. However, Cohen's outlook for the Patriots is bleak: "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick." Adding to their challenges, three of their first four games in the 2024 season will be on the road, testing Mayo's leadership right out of the gate.
As the NFL season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how these narratives unfold. The Buccaneers' investment in Mayfield, the Falcons' potential rise with Cousins, the Rams' quest for consistency under McVay, and the Patriots' rebuilding efforts under Mayo all contribute to what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable season. As Eric Cohen's predictions suggest, there are plenty of twists and turns ahead, making it a fascinating time to follow the NFL.