Bucs' Challenges Ahead After NFC South Win
After clinching the NFC South with a 9-8 record last season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are striving for continuity despite the offseason shakeup. Quarterback Baker Mayfield headlines the significant moves, having inked a three-year, $100 million contract. However, despite the momentum and new additions, the latest 2025 Super Bowl odds do not favor the Buccaneers to win the NFC South.
Falcons: The New Favorites
The Atlanta Falcons enter the season as the clear favorites to win the division, with odds of -120 to claim the NFC South crown and -196 to make the playoffs. Their offseason was marked by acquiring veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, a move that considerably strengthened their roster. The addition of Cousins represents a forward-thinking strategy that could reshape the dynamics of the NFC South.
Eric Cohen's Insights
Renowned SportsLine NFL expert Eric Cohen has weighed in on the upcoming season, following his impressive 39-28 prediction streak last year. Cohen's latest analyses include detailed predictions for each team's final record in the 2024 NFL season. His perspective carries significant weight in the sports betting and analysis communities.
"Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," highlighting just how impactful his insights have been. At SportsLine, Cohen continues to be a pivotal figure, with his latest forecasts including possible dark horse Super Bowl contenders and bets that offer considerable returns. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," teases the potential for unexpected outcomes this season.
One of Cohen's boldest predictions centers on the New England Patriots. He foresees a tough road ahead for the storied franchise, estimating a dismal 2-15 record in their first season after Bill Belichick’s departure. "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick."
Rams Look to Rebound
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are aiming for a resurgence. Over the past four seasons, the Rams have won at least ten games three times. They boasted a 12-5 record in the 2021-22 season, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. Success under head coach Sean McVay has been recurring; five playoff appearances in seven seasons speak to the efficient culture he has instilled.
However, one anomaly persists: the Rams have only managed to secure the NFC West title once in the past five years. This season, retaining most of their offensive line-up, including star running back Kyren Williams, who tallied 228 rushing attempts for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, will be critical to their ambitions.
Patriots Facing Early Tests
The New England Patriots are navigating turbulent waters without legendary coach Bill Belichick. With former linebacker Jerod Mayo now at the helm, the transition marks a significant turn for the Patriots. Their challenging start, featuring three of the first four games on the road in the upcoming season, will test their mettle early. The team is coming off a 4-13 record in 2023, and expectations are tempered as they rebuild under new leadership.
As the NFL season approaches, the narratives surrounding franchises like the Buccaneers, Falcons, Rams, and Patriots promise a blend of high expectations, new dawns, and retrials. Analysts like Eric Cohen provide invaluable foresight as fans and bettors alike await the unfolding drama of the NFL season.