The NFL season kicks off on Thursday with an exciting AFC showdown between the Ravens and the Chiefs. Following that, the Packers will face the Eagles in a game taking place in Brazil.
Sunday’s slate features 12 afternoon matchups, another game in the evening, and week one will wrap up with a Monday Night Football clash between the Jets and the 49ers.
What? NFL 2024/2025 Week One
Where? Starting at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas
When? Thursday, September 5 – Monday September 9, 2024
The Kansas City Chiefs, the reigning champions, offer a promising betting opportunity as they host the Baltimore Ravens. With the Chiefs favored by 3 points, backing them to cover the spread appears to be a smart move. Kansas City has a track record of excelling in high-stakes games, especially at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, and they’ve proven they can handle tough defenses like Baltimore’s, as seen in last year’s AFC Championship. With Patrick Mahomes leading the offense and the advantage of playing at home, the Chiefs are well-positioned to surpass the Ravens by more than the 3-point margin.
Kansas City Chiefs -3Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs
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Arizona Cardinals vs. Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills might face some early challenges in 2024 due to their revamped receiving corps. With Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis no longer on the roster, the Bills will rely on newcomers like Curtis Samuel, Mack Hollins, and rookie Keon Coleman. This transition could pose difficulties for quarterback Josh Allen, who has a tendency to force plays, often resulting in turnovers. Allen’s ability to protect the ball could be a critical factor in whether the Arizona Cardinals can pull off an upset.
On paper, the Cardinals are a stronger team than they were last year, particularly with the addition of rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., making them an intriguing team to watch this season. However, despite some new defensive additions, Arizona’s defense didn’t impress during the preseason.
Adding to their challenges, the Cardinals will be without a couple of key defenders. Rookie second-round pick Darius Robinson is expected to miss several weeks with a calf injury, and B.J. Ojulari is on injured reserve with a torn ACL.
Given that Arizona’s defense ranked 29th in yards per carry allowed last season, Buffalo’s running backs, James Cook and Ray Davis, should have the opportunity to exploit the Cardinals’ weaknesses in Week 1.
Buffalo Bills -6.0Arizona Cardinals vs. Buffalo Bills
The Atlanta Falcons are 3-point favorites against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and betting on them to win and cover the spread is a solid option. The Falcons have a notable advantage playing at home in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Meanwhile, the Steelers’ offense has shown inconsistency throughout the preseason, and there are concerns about their performance with Russell Wilson under center. Pittsburgh will be up against a Falcons defense that should be stronger this season, especially after the addition of Matthew Judon.
On the offensive side, the Falcons have a significant upgrade with Kirk Cousins now at quarterback, replacing Desmond Ridder and Taylor Heinicke from recent seasons. While Pittsburgh’s defense is strong, Atlanta’s home-field advantage and the potential of their revamped offense make them a good bet to cover the 3-point spread.
Atlanta Falcons -3Atlanta Falcons vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Starting out in the betting industry, Henry later found his calling in sports writing. Specializing in soccer, golf, and darts, he also offers insights into a wide array of sports across the globe. After earning a BA Honors degree in Business and Management, Henry advanced through the ranks at William Hill in England. His career isn't just limited to sports; he's also made a mark in Property and Finance, fields in which he remains engaged. Henry now resides in Barcelona, where he enjoys playing golf year-round as part of the Real Federacion Espanola de Golf.