The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the upcoming NFL season with the wind of an NFC South-winning season beneath their wings, despite finishing with a modest 9-8 record. This offseason has been transformative for the team, marked by the high-profile signing of quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mayfield inked a three-year, $100 million deal, a move that the Buccaneers hope will stabilize and elevate their offense.
Yet, despite their recent success and big-ticket acquisitions, the Buccaneers are not being pegged as favorites to secure the NFC South title according to the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds. That honor goes to the Atlanta Falcons, who are currently favored to win the division.
Falcons' Favorability and New Leadership
The Falcons, with odds of -120 to win the NFC South and -196 to make the playoffs, have made strategic moves to bolster their chances. Their most significant off-season maneuver involves the acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins, a decision expected to add experience and consistency to their lineup. The investment in Cousins underscores the Falcons' commitment to securing a firm control over the division title they are heavily favored to win.
Among the voices weighing in on the upcoming season is Eric Cohen, a reputable SportsLine NFL expert. His predictions carry considerable influence, particularly after finishing last season with an impressive 39-28 streak. For those who followed Cohen's NFL predictions, there were substantial wins to be had. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," highlights his accuracy and insight into the league's outcomes.
Rams' Robust Prospects
Turning our attention to the West Coast, the Los Angeles Rams present a picture of competitive consistency. With head coach Sean McVay at the helm, the Rams have showcased remarkable resilience and strategic prowess. The team has secured at least 10 wins in three of the past four seasons, including a 12-5 record in the 2021-22 season, which culminated in a Super Bowl victory.
Under McVay's leadership, the Rams have made five playoff appearances in seven seasons, yet the team has only managed to clinch the NFC West title once in the past five years. Nevertheless, the Rams are poised for another robust season, with the majority of their offensive production returning. Running back Kyren Williams, who had a standout season with 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns, is expected to be a pivotal player once again.
Patriots Facing a Potential Downturn
The New England Patriots, conversely, appear to be standing at a crossroads. After experiencing losing records in three of their past four seasons and ending the 2023 season with a disappointing 4-13 record, the team is facing drastic changes. The departure of legendary head coach Bill Belichick has ushered in a new era, with Jerod Mayo stepping into the head coach role.
Eric Cohen's outlook for the Patriots is particularly pessimistic. "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick," he states, underscoring a period of adjustment and potential struggle for the storied franchise. The team's schedule adds another layer of challenge, with three of their first four games in the 2024 season set to be on the road.
Concluding Thoughts
The upcoming NFL season promises its share of excitement, unpredictability, and drama. While teams like the Buccaneers and Falcons make bold moves to assert their dominance, the Rams aim to build on a foundation of proven success. Meanwhile, the Patriots grapple with a significant transitional phase that could reshape their future. As always, the keen insights of experts like Eric Cohen offer valuable perspectives, painting a vivid picture of the possibilities and pitfalls that lie ahead.