The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter the 2024 NFL season with a mix of optimism and uncertainty following their NFC South-winning campaign. Though achieving a 9-8 record to secure the division title last season, the Buccaneers now face new challenges, including adjusting to a new quarterback under center.
Baker Mayfield Joins the Buccaneers
Quarterback Baker Mayfield has signed a substantial three-year, $100 million contract with the Buccaneers this offseason. This acquisition aims to inject fresh energy into the team's offense. Mayfield, known for his competitive spirit and playmaking abilities, will be under pressure to lead Tampa Bay back to playoff success.
Division Rivals and Odds
Despite last season's success, the Buccaneers are not the favorites to win the NFC South according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds. The Atlanta Falcons have emerged as the division front-runners, reflecting confidence in the team's recent moves. The Falcons currently hold favorable odds of -120 to win the NFC South and -196 to make the playoffs.
Atlanta's boosted odds can be attributed to their acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins in the offseason. Cousins brings a wealth of experience and stability to the Falcons, which could prove pivotal in their quest for the divisional crown.
Eric Cohen's Predictions
SportsLine NFL expert Eric Cohen, known for his accurate predictions, finished last season with an impressive 39-28 streak. His insights have become a trusted source for many fans and bettors alike. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," highlights the confidence in his analyses.
Cohen has recently shared his comprehensive predictions for each team's final record for the 2024 NFL season. One of his notable forecasts is for the New England Patriots, where he estimates a 2-15 record in their first season without Bill Belichick. "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots," reflecting the tumultuous transition the team is undergoing post-Belichick.
The Patriots' New Era
The New England Patriots have struggled recently, experiencing losing records in three of their past four seasons, including a 4-13 record in 2023. The departure of legendary head coach Bill Belichick marks the end of an era, with Jerod Mayo stepping in as the new head coach. Mayo faces the formidable task of revitalizing a franchise accustomed to success.
Cohen's prediction for the Patriots' upcoming season serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," teases further insights that fans can discover from his detailed predictions.
Rams Aim for a Bounce Back
The Los Angeles Rams, under the guidance of head coach Sean McVay, are another team with high expectations for the 2024 season. Despite making five playoff appearances in seven seasons, the Rams have only secured the NFC West title once in the past five years.
However, recent history has been favorable for the Rams. They won at least 10 games three times in the past four seasons and capped the 2021-22 campaign with a Super Bowl victory. Returning a majority of their offensive production from last year, including running back Kyren Williams, who had an impressive 1,144 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, the Rams are poised for another strong run.
Eric Cohen’s record of past predictions—such as the Rams' postseason success—adds another layer of excitement and intrigue to the upcoming season. For those closely following his forecasts, surprises and potential big wins are anticipated. "They include a potential Super Bowl result that pays almost 100-1 and a win total that pays back plus-money," Cohen reveals.
This NFL season promises to be thrilling, with teams navigating new challenges and chasing lofty goals. From the Buccaneers’ recalibrated ambitions with Baker Mayfield to the Falcons’ newfound optimism and the Rams’ consistent competitiveness, fans are in for a suspenseful journey. As teams like the New England Patriots embark on new chapters, the season’s narrative will be shaped by both expected outcomes and unforeseen twists, keeping audiences engaged every step of the way.