The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering the new NFL season after clinching the NFC South title with a 9-8 record. Despite their earlier success, the team faces a new chapter with a significant addition to their roster – quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mayfield signed a three-year, $100 million contract during the offseason, injecting fresh optimism and expectations.
However, as the new season approaches, the Buccaneers are not projected as the favorites to win the NFC South. The latest 2025 Super Bowl odds indicate a shift in balance within the division, placing the Atlanta Falcons in the spotlight. With odds of -120 to win the NFC South and -196 to make the playoffs, experts see the Falcons emerging as strong contenders.
Falcons Secure Kirk Cousins
A key decision impacting the Falcons' favorability has been the acquisition of quarterback Kirk Cousins in the offseason. Cousins' arrival is expected to bolster their offensive capabilities significantly. This strategic move places Atlanta in a favorable position to challenge for the division title and potentially make a deep playoff run.
Expert Predictions and Analysis
Eric Cohen, a reputable NFL expert from SportsLine, has been consistently accurate with his predictions. Cohen boasts an impressive 39-28 streak from his predictions last season. "Anyone who followed Cohen's NFL predictions won big," reflects the confidence sports bettors place in his insights.
This season, Cohen's comprehensive grid format predictions for each team's final record have garnered significant attention. His respected perspective is both anticipated and trusted among the NFL community. "See which other surprising winners Cohen is picking only at SportsLine," invites fans to dive deeper into his expert projections.
Los Angeles Rams: Steady Under Sean McVay
Transitioning to the NFC West, the Los Angeles Rams have consistently performed under Head Coach Sean McVay. Over the past four seasons, the Rams have recorded at least 10 wins in three campaigns. Their pinnacle achievement came in the 2021-22 season when they finished 12-5 and clinched the Super Bowl title.
The Rams' track record under McVay includes five playoff appearances in seven seasons, underscoring their stability and competitiveness. However, despite their consistent playoff presence, the NFC West title has eluded them in four of the past five years. Nonetheless, the return of most key offensive players, including running back Kyren Williams – who rushed for 1,144 yards and 12 touchdowns last season – promises stability and continuity.
Patriots Face a New Era
In striking contrast, the New England Patriots are navigating uncharted waters. With losing records in three of the last four seasons and a disappointing 4-13 finish in 2023, the team is in the midst of a significant transition. The departure of iconic head coach Bill Belichick marks the end of an era for the franchise.
Jerod Mayo steps in as the new head coach, tasked with steering the Patriots back to their former glory. However, early forecasts aren't optimistic. Cohen predicts a daunting season ahead for New England, suggesting they will finish with a 2-15 record. "Cohen predicts a grim outcome for the Patriots, estimating they will finish with a 2-15 record in their first year post-Belichick," which underscores the challenges Mayo and his squad face.
The Patriots' schedule further complicates their prospects, with three of their first four games on the road. This tough start will test the resolve and resilience of Mayo's leadership and the team's adaptation to a post-Belichick landscape.
Looking Forward
This season, the narrative in the NFL is one of shifting dynamics and the emergence of new contenders. As seasoned experts like Eric Cohen provide their analysis and predictions, fans and bettors alike gear up for what promises to be an intriguing and unpredictable season. "They include a potential Super Bowl result that pays almost 100-1 and a win total that pays back plus-money," revealing lucrative opportunities for those willing to follow his insights.
In conclusion, as teams like the Buccaneers, Falcons, Rams, and Patriots face their respective challenges and prospects, the upcoming NFL season holds exciting possibilities and the allure of the unexpected. Whether it's a new star under center, a proven winner's return, or a legendary franchise finding its footing anew, the NFL remains a compelling theater of sport and strategy.