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The Week 1 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you lined with what you have to know heading into the weekend.
Our NFL Nation reporters carry us the most important keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Stats & Info workforce offers an enormous stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Football Power Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy football X components, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us closing rating picks for each sport. Every part you wish to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL football.
Let’s get into the total Week 1 slate, together with the Dallas Cowboys battling the Cleveland Browns and Matthew Stafford‘s Sunday night time go to to Detroit. All of it culminates with a “Monday Evening Soccer” matchup between the New York Jets and the San Francisco 49ers on ESPN. (Sport occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Leap to a matchup:
GB-PHI | PIT-ATL | ARI-BUF
NE-CIN | TEN-CHI | HOU-IND
JAX-MIA | CAR-NO | MIN-NYG
LV-LAC | DEN-SEA | DAL-CLE
WSH-TB | LAR-DET | NYJ-SF
Thursday: KC 27, BAL 20
Friday, 8:15 p.m. ET | Peacock | ESPN BET: PHI -2.5 (49.5 O/U)
Packers storyline to observe: Solely the Titans picked off fewer passes final season than the Packers’ seven. Underneath new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Inexperienced Bay confirmed a knack for choosing off passes in coaching camp, particularly from a security place that was overhauled and now consists of Xavier McKinney, Javon Bullard and Evan Williams. Contemplating quarterback Jalen Hurts threw an interception in every of his final 4 video games to finish the 2023 season, this might give the Packers an early alternative to indicate that their protection might be completely different. — Rob Demovsky
Eagles storyline to observe: Operating again Saquon Barkley makes his Eagles debut. If it is something like what he confirmed in observe this week, the followers in Sao Paulo, Brazil, are in for a present. “He made a run at observe [Monday] and I simply keep in mind — I used to be carrying sun shades, it was sunny, I used to be simply form of taking my sun shades off and taking a look at a few coaches like, ‘All proper, that is superior that we acquired him right here,'” coach Nick Sirianni stated. The Eagles consider Barkley, who appeared in 14 video games for the Giants final season and completed with 962 dashing yards and 6 touchdowns, will thrive behind this offensive line and alongside playmakers like Hurts, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. He’ll face a Packers workforce that completed twenty eighth in dashing yards allowed in 2023 (128.3 YPG). — Tim McManus
Stat to know: Hurts ranked third amongst QBs with 605 dashing yards in 2023. The Packers tied for twenty ninth in dashing yards allowed by opposing quarterbacks (419).
Daring prediction: Eagles huge receiver A.J. Brown will report 100 or extra receiving yards. The Eagles’ offense vs. the Packers’ protection pits two new schemes in opposition to one another, so there are a number of unknowns. With that uncertainty, I wish to wager on participant ability, which Brown has in abundance. He recorded an 80-plus open rating in every of the previous three seasons, so irrespective of the system, he’ll be open. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Packers huge receiver Jayden Reed. The Eagles gave up probably the most fantasy factors to huge receivers final season, particularly struggling in opposition to slot receivers. Reed, who lined up within the slot 67% of the time in 2023, might carry out properly in opposition to a Philadelphia secondary that is gone by way of a number of adjustments. He scored 15-plus fantasy factors in seven of his final eight video games. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Packers coach Matt LaFleur is 20-7 in opposition to the unfold (ATS) and 16-11 outright in his profession as an underdog. Each are the perfect information amongst coaches with at the very least 15 video games as an underdog within the Tremendous Bowl period. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Packers 28, Eagles 24
Moody’s choose: Packers 30, Eagles 23
Walder’s choose: Eagles 24, Packers 23
FPI prediction: PHI, 57.5% (by a median of three.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Why sending Packers, Eagles to Brazil was no small feat … Eagles look to bridge Sirianni, Hurts divide … Walker’s path to replacing Packers’ LT Bakhtiari
2:30
Stephen A.: Hurts is a much bigger MVP candidate than Love
Stephen A. Smith says Jalen Hurts has proven he has extra MVP potential than Jordan Love.
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: ATL -3.5 (41.5 O/U)
Steelers storyline to observe: With a lot consideration on the Steelers’ quarterbacks, their offseason defensive additions flew below the radar. That ends Sunday, when inside linebacker Patrick Queen might be a key a part of the plan to gradual RB Bijan Robinson. The Steelers can rely on Robinson, who regardless of inconsistent utilization in his rookie season had 976 yards and 4 touchdowns, to be a big issue within the Falcons’ assault. The Steelers’ run protection ranked within the backside half of the league, permitting 4.3 yards per carry final season, however including Queen to play alongside thumper Elandon Roberts ought to shore up that unit. — Brooke Pryor
Falcons storyline to observe: If the Falcons’ anemic cross rush, bolstered by the acquisition of edge rusher Matthew Judon, goes to interrupt out, there may not be a greater alternative than Week 1. Steelers QB Russell Wilson has been sacked greater than any signal-caller within the league since he was drafted in 2012 (527), and Pittsburgh is coping with accidents on its offensive line. Judon will need assistance from Arnold Ebiketie (six sacks in 2023) for a workforce that was useless final in cross rush win charge in 2023 (30.9%). — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: The Steelers have a 15-2-1 report in opposition to the Falcons. Pittsburgh’s final loss to Atlanta was in 2006.
Daring prediction: Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. will report an interception. Porter ranked fourth amongst all outdoors corners in yards allowed per protection snap final 12 months, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats — extremely spectacular for a rookie. Now a Week 1 starter, that is the 12 months he turns into a star — starting with a choose off QB Kirk Cousins. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Falcons tight finish Kyle Pitts. Atlanta’s offense needs to be extra balanced below new coordinator Zac Robinson, which is nice information for Pitts together with improved quarterback play from Cousins. The Steelers’ protection ranks seventh in cross rush win charge (46.6%), and wideout Drake London faces a troublesome matchup in opposition to Porter. Pitts ought to discover success beneath in opposition to a Steelers workforce that ranked within the high half of the league in fantasy factors allowed to tight ends final season. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Falcons have been 5-12 ATS final season, tied with the Chargers for the worst report within the NFL. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Falcons 20, Steelers 12
Moody’s choose: Falcons 24, Steelers 21
Walder’s choose: Falcons 19, Steelers 16
FPI prediction: ATL, 58.8% (by a median of three.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Can Wilson, Fields redeem Steelers’ offense? … Kirk Cousins says Falcons ‘have chance to do something’
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -6.5 (48.5 O/U)
Cardinals storyline to observe: Sunday would be the extremely anticipated debut of Cardinals rookie WR Marvin Harrison Jr., and there will be lots to observe for. How will he be utilized by Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing and QB Kyler Murray? How will the Payments play him? How will he deal with his first NFL sport? These round him have raved about his maturity and the way his NFL studying curve has been shortened due to that maturity and his household background. — Josh Weinfuss
Payments storyline to observe: How precisely this Payments offense seems to be in Week 1 might be intriguing to see. The huge receiver room underwent main change this offseason, and Joe Brady is taking over the offensive coordinator function full-time. The primary-team offense, now wholesome, noticed restricted enjoying time within the preseason — eight snaps for QB Josh Allen. This would be the first vital sport motion the group will get. It is going to be a very good alternative for Allen and the offense to begin the 12 months at dwelling in opposition to a Cardinals protection that allowed the second-most factors per sport in 2023 (26.8). — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: The Payments misplaced 45% of receiving yards and 52% of receiving touchdowns from final season with the departure of Stefon Diggs (Houston) and Gabe Davis (Jacksonville).
Daring prediction: Payments huge receiver Khalil Shakir will report seven or extra receptions. Rookie Keon Coleman may at some point flip into this workforce’s No. 1 receiver, however Shakir is probably going probably the most dependable wideout proper now, particularly after posting a powerful 2.05 yards per route run final season. I am assured he’ll do harm in opposition to a weak Cardinals protection. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Payments operating again James Cook. The Cardinals had the league’s worst run protection final season, rating thirty second in dashing yards allowed per sport (143.2). With minimal offseason additions, Arizona’s defensive entrance stays weak, setting the stage for Cook dinner to have a standout efficiency. He averaged 19.6 touches and 16.4 fantasy factors per sport throughout Weeks 11-18 final season. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Murray is 12-7-1 ATS in his profession when getting at the very least 4 factors, together with 10-4-1 ATS on the street. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Cardinals 21, Payments 20
Moody’s choose: Payments 31, Cardinals 24
Walder’s choose: Payments 33, Cardinals 17
FPI prediction: BUF, 67.7% (by a median of seven.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How Murray, Cardinals hope a trip to L.A. translates to in-season wins camaraderie … The evolution of Buffalo’s roster and QB Allen’s leadership expectations
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CIN -8.5 (40.5 O/U)
Patriots storyline to observe: The Patriots’ offensive line is probably going going to be with out projected starters Vederian Lowe (indirect) at left sort out and Sidy Sow (ankle) at left guard, which makes a formidable problem in opposition to the Bengals’ high-end line of defense that a lot harder. New England ranked final within the NFL in cross block win charge (43.4%) in 2023, and selecting the “finest 5” offensive linemen in 2024 coaching camp has been an evolving course of — making it arguably the workforce’s greatest query mark getting into the season. — Mike Reiss
Bengals storyline to observe: Despite the fact that the Bengals are an 8.5-point favourite, New England’s secondary will function a very good take a look at for Cincinnati’s passing assault. Quarterback Joe Burrow is in his first sport again from a wrist injury. Andrei Iosivas is making his debut because the workforce’s slot receiver, and issues are nonetheless up within the air with star wideout Ja’Marr Chase, who has hardly practiced as he awaits a brand new deal. New England includes a beginning cornerback combo of Jonathan Jones, who had sturdy defensive protection numbers final season, and Christian Gonzalez, a 2023 first-round choose coming off a season-ending shoulder injury. — Ben Child
Stat to know: Since 2020, the Bengals are 1-7 within the first two weeks of the season, tied with the Vikings for the worst report within the NFL.
Daring prediction: The Bengals will rating a defensive or particular groups landing. I do not know what the new kickoff will carry, however I’ve to suppose at the very least in Week 1 — when groups may unleash a trick or two — there needs to be an elevated likelihood of a kick returned for a rating. And in addition, given the state of the Patriots’ offense, notably its offensive line, I believe a catastrophic error sooner or later is not that unlikely. I even have a mannequin for this, and it provides Cincinnati a greater likelihood of a D/ST rating than anybody in Week 1 (17% likelihood, although take the quantity with a grain of salt given the brand new kickoff). — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Patriots operating again Rhamondre Stevenson. The Bengals’ growing old line of defense struggled final season, rating twenty sixth in run cease win charge (29.2%), and 2024 may not be higher, particularly with out DJ Reader. Anticipate Stevenson to get most early-down and goal-line touches in offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt’s new Patriots offense. He has averaged 15.1 touches and 74.3 yards per sport up to now in his profession. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Prior to now 25 seasons, groups laying over a landing (at the very least 7.5 factors) in Week 1 are 20-36 ATS. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Bengals 28, Patriots 13
Moody’s choose: Bengals 24, Patriots 13
Walder’s choose: Bengals 20, Patriots 16
FPI prediction: CIN, 75.0% (by a median of 10.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Brissett’s journey to becoming Patriots’ starting QB … Bengals believe if Chase plays, he’ll make impact … What’s next for Patriots QB Maye?
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CHI -3.5 (44.5 O/U)
Titans storyline to observe: There is not a lot movie on Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson since that is his first time absolutely operating his personal present, however he cited aggressive coordinators Gregg Williams and Todd Bowles as main influences on his philosophy. The rule of thumb is all the time to assault a rookie quarterback, so count on Wilson’s protection to blitz relentlessly whereas mixing coverages pre- and post-snap to confuse QB Caleb Williams and make him uncomfortable. When the Titans do assault Williams, the cross rush should be coordinated with no “impartial contractors,” as outdoors linebacker Harold Landry III put it. — Turron Davenport
Bears storyline to observe: Williams goals to turn out to be the primary quarterback drafted No. 1 to win his first profession begin since David Carr in 2002 — the previous 15 QBs chosen with the highest choose are 0-14-1 of their first begin. Chicago desires Williams to lean on the gamers round him, and he’s the one rookie in NFL historical past to begin his workforce’s season opener with two receivers who had 90-plus receptions the earlier season (Keenan Allen, 108; DJ Moore, 96). “Within the early components of the sport and early downs, he is simply requested to play level guard,” coach Matt Eberflus stated of Williams. “Have an incredible operation, play level guard, get the ball to our ability both by handing it off or throwing it to him and letting them do the operating and shifting round and gaining the yards.” — Courtney Cronin
Stat to know: Bears operating again D’Andre Swift completed with 745 dashing yards earlier than contact final season, which was the second most within the NFL behind Christian McCaffrey (888).
Daring prediction: Titans linebacker Arden Key will report at the very least one sack. My mannequin provides him a 43% likelihood, however I like Key — an underrated participant who had a 20% cross rush win charge final 12 months — to get it accomplished in opposition to Williams. Whereas an outstanding prospect, Williams did will be inclined to take sacks in faculty (83 in three seasons). — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Titans operating again Tyjae Spears. The Bears’ protection improved considerably within the second half of final season. Nonetheless, it nonetheless allowed probably the most receiving yards to operating backs. Spears, who completed final season with the ninth-most targets amongst RBs (70) and 838 complete yards, ought to proceed being a dependable receiving valve out of the backfield for QB Will Levis. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Quarterbacks drafted No. 1 total are 0-14-1 outright and 1-14 ATS of their first profession begins since 2003. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Bears 20, Titans 17
Moody’s choose: Bears 21, Titans 14
Walder’s choose: Titans 23, Bears 20
FPI prediction: CHI, 64.6% (by a median of 6.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: DeAndre Hopkins returns to Titans practice, could play opener … Bears’ Williams OK with game plan for Titans, not concerned about stats … Titans look the part on paper after $228M spending spree
0:52
Why fantasy managers ought to consider in Caleb Williams and the Bears
Liz Loza raves concerning the Bears’ offense and tells Bears followers “there’s actual purpose to be hopeful” going into the season.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -3 (48.5 O/U)
Texans storyline to observe: QB C.J. Stroud threw for 648 yards and 4 landing passes in two video games in opposition to the Colts throughout his rookie season. That was with out newly added All-Professional receiver Stefon Diggs. Now Stroud’s playmakers embrace Diggs with the receiver duo of Nico Collins and Tank Dell, alongside tight finish Dalton Schultz. Stroud might have one other sturdy efficiency in Week 1 in opposition to Indianapolis. — DJ Bien-Aime
Colts storyline to observe: The Colts are counting closely on their defensive entrance to create constant strain in opposition to Stroud to compensate for a younger secondary. Indianapolis sacked Stroud six occasions within the first assembly final season, including 18 QB pressures. Within the second assembly, with Houston’s offensive line at full power, the Colts sacked Stroud twice and produced simply eight pressures. What is going to Sunday carry? — Stephen Holder
Stat to know: The Colts are winless in 10 straight season openers, which is the longest energetic streak and the second longest in NFL historical past.
Daring prediction: Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson will publish a QBR below 30 for the sport. Whereas he flashed ability final season, Richardson nonetheless wasn’t that environment friendly, posting only a 45 QBR in his restricted motion. However that is extra concerning the Texans’ protection, which I believe may very well be very troublesome for Richardson to beat. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter are going to provide the second-year QB a tough time. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Texans operating again Joe Mixon. The Colts’ protection struggled to include operating backs final season, giving up the fifth-most fantasy factors per sport to the place. Mixon faces minimal competitors for snaps and touches in Week 1, setting him up for an enormous function in a high-scoring sport. The Texans shouldn’t have any bother shifting the ball by way of the air in opposition to the Colts’ inexperienced secondary. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: That is the primary time Houston has been a Week 1 favourite since 2017, snapping the second-longest Week 1 favourite drought within the NFL (Giants: 2016). Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Colts 18, Texans 17
Moody’s choose: Texans 30, Colts 21
Walder’s choose: Texans 30, Colts 7
FPI prediction: HOU, 53.7% (by a median of 1.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Texans not running from Super Bowl expectations … Colts GM Chris Ballard defends approach amid mixed results
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: MIA -3.5 (48.5 O/U)
Jaguars storyline to observe: The brand new guys on offense — receivers Gabe Davis and rookie Brian Thomas Jr. — have been added with one major purpose in thoughts: Stretch the sector extra. Davis has averaged 16.7 yards per catch in his four-year profession, and Thomas averaged 17.3 yards per catch final season at LSU. QB Trevor Lawrence was already coming off the perfect 12 months of his profession by way of deep throws — 13-of-42 on throws of at the very least 25 yards within the air for 505 yards — and the Jaguars have set the stage for him to take extra pictures down the sector. — Mike DiRocco
Dolphins storyline to observe: The Jaguars acquired 27.5 sacks out of Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker final season, and on paper, the 2 cross rushers have a bonus in opposition to a Dolphins offensive line breaking in three new starters. New heart Aaron Brewer returned to observe this week after a three-week absence, however coach Mike McDaniel stated it will take a workforce effort to decelerate the Jacksonville duo. Dolphins receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle additionally returned from minor injuries this week, giving the league’s high offense in 2023 its main cross catchers. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Stat to know: Hill has averaged 109.9 receiving yards per sport in eight season openers. That is probably the most profession receiving yards per sport in season openers in NFL historical past (minimal 5 video games performed).
Daring prediction: Dolphins operating again De’Von Achane will break off a 40-plus-yard play from scrimmage. Regardless of carrying the ball simply 103 occasions final season, Achane ranked second in rush yards over expectation (behind solely Christian McCaffrey). Now that he is wholesome to begin the 2024 season, I count on him to place up big numbers. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Dolphins operating again Raheem Mostert. Even in a backfield with Achane, Mostert should not be forgotten. He averaged 0.51 fantasy factors per snap (second better of any participant) and had 19 dashing makes an attempt contained in the 5-yard line final season (tied for many within the league). The Jaguars did enhance their line of defense this offseason, however they’re nonetheless a middle-of-the-road unit. The Dolphins will not shrink back from the operating sport in opposition to Jacksonville. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Final season, the Dolphins have been 9-2 ATS as favorites (8-1 outright) and 1-6 outright/ATS as underdogs. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Dolphins 31, Jaguars 21
Moody’s choose: Dolphins 28, Jaguars 21
Walder’s choose: Dolphins 34, Jaguars 21
FPI prediction: MIA, 59.8% (by a median of 4.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Can Jaguars’ Hines-Allen build a legacy in Jacksonville? … Dolphins rookie DE Robinson taking tips from OT Armstead
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: NO -4 (41.5 O/U)
Panthers storyline to observe: Eight of QB Bryce Young‘s 62 sacks final season got here in opposition to New Orleans, with half of these from inside strain. That is why the Panthers spent $150 million on upgrading the center of the road with guards Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt and moved veteran guard Austin Corbett to heart. Additionally it is why new coach Dave Canales, who has a status for turning round quarterbacks, spent the offseason asking Younger to eliminate the ball in not more than 2.7 seconds and introduced in receiver Diontae Johnson, who can create separation to get open rapidly. All might be essential in opposition to what may very well be a top-10 Saints protection. — David Newton
Saints storyline to observe: The Saints benched former left sort out Trevor Penning final season after the offensive line allowed 13 sacks in 4 video games and quarterback Derek Carr acquired damage. Now Penning is again within the lineup at proper sort out, with rookie first-round choose Taliese Fuaga manning the left facet. The Saints spent the offseason overhauling the offense and hired new coordinator Klint Kubiak to implement a brand new scheme. Defending Carr might be a key factor to observe early within the season because the Saints attempt to work out any points with the new-look offensive entrance. — Katherine Terrell
Stat to know: The Panthers have been the one winless workforce on the street final season (0-9). Their final street win was a 10-7 victory over the Saints on Jan. 8, 2023.
Daring prediction: Saints operating again Alvin Kamara will report 55 or extra receiving yards. A slew of things are pointing me in that path. The Saints have a leaky offensive line, the Panthers have a sneaky stable cornerback duo in Michael Jackson and Jaycee Horn, whereas defensive sort out Derrick Brown will deal with stuffing the Saints’ different operating again, Jamaal Williams, up the center. Therefore, Kamara catching passes offers the trail of least resistance for the offense. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Panthers operating again Chuba Hubbard. With rookie Jonathon Brooks beginning the season on injured reserve, Hubbard is ready to thrive in 2024 because the Panthers’ featured again. He is more likely to profit from the scheme of Canales, who helped Rachaad White see 336 touches final season in Tampa Bay. Like White, Hubbard has a three-down ability set and needs to be closely relied on by the Panthers in opposition to the Saints. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Unders have been 12-5 in Panthers video games, the very best below share within the NFL. The Panthers have been 6-11 ATS final season with the second-worst common cowl margin within the NFL (-5.6). Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Saints 17, Panthers 9
Moody’s choose: Saints 17, Panthers 14
Walder’s choose: Panthers 20, Saints 17
FPI prediction: NO, 64.4% (by a median of 5.9 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Will Young shine under new Panthers coach Canales? … Chase Young, backup QBs and more: Five questions looming for Saints
1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: MIN -1.5 (41.5 O/U)
Vikings storyline to observe: The Vikings are kicking off one of many least-anticipated seasons of their latest historical past. ESPN Analytics provides them a 14% likelihood to make the playoffs, their lowest by far since ESPN started projecting postseason appearances in 2015. Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy‘s season-ending knee injury put Sam Darnold on the helm of a marketing campaign that features the NFL’s fifth-most troublesome schedule. The excellent news is that the Vikings are slight favorites in Week 1 on the Giants, probably the most winnable sport on paper within the first half of the season. — Kevin Seifert
Giants storyline to observe: It is the primary profession sport for 2024 No. 6 choose Malik Nabers, the Giants’ clear-cut No. 1 receiver. He will get a positive matchup in Week 1 in opposition to a Vikings protection that allowed a wholesome 80.6 yards per sport and eight touchdowns to No. 1 receivers final season. It is going to be an offseason cornerback acquisition for Minnesota, both Stephon Gilmore or Shaquill Griffin, attempting to include the explosive Nabers who, if coaching camp is any indication, needs to be focused early and sometimes as a rookie this season. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: Darnold has a 42 complete QBR over his profession, the worst among the many 26 QBs with 50 begins since he entered the league in 2018.
Daring prediction: Giants rookie tight finish Theo Johnson — who might have a major role — will report at the very least 4 receptions. QB Daniel Jones has averaged below 7 air yards per goal in every of the previous three seasons. And I’ve to think about dealing with the fixed blitzes from Brian Flores’ protection will make him extra more likely to eliminate the ball rapidly. Johnson may very well be the beneficiary. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Vikings operating again Aaron Jones. The Giants’ protection gave up the Tenth-most fantasy factors allowed per sport to operating backs final season. Regardless of new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen and a few offseason additions, New York is not anticipated to enhance a lot. Jones ought to get loads of touches on a Vikings workforce that ranked twenty ninth in dashing yards (1,553) and thirty first in dashing touchdowns (seven) final season. He completed sturdy with three straight video games of 14-plus fantasy factors with the Packers in 2023. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Giants have lined six straight video games as a house underdog (9-3 ATS below coach Brian Daboll). Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Vikings 17, Giants 14
Moody’s choose: Giants 21, Vikings 17
Walder’s choose: Vikings 26, Giants 18
FPI prediction: NYG, 49.9% (by a median of 0.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Is Darnold ready to be Vikings’ season-long starting QB? … Brian Burns may be the missing piece for Giants’ D … What Vikings GM Adofo-Mensah learned from disastrous 2022 draft
0:49
Justin Jefferson primed for fantasy stardom in Week 1
Try some stats about Justin Jefferson as he begins his season vs. the Giants in Week 1.
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LAC -3 (40.5 O/U)
Raiders storyline to observe: Broad receiver Davante Adams didn’t have a lot on-field work this offseason with new QB Gardner Minshew as Adams missed vital time. So over the previous two weeks, the duo has been specializing in their chemistry. “We have been bettering day by day … it is one thing that we’re decided to proceed to construct on all through the whole 12 months,” stated Adams, who can turn out to be one in every of 4 gamers in NFL historical past with at the very least 100 catches in 4 straight seasons. “We wish to proceed to get higher because the 12 months goes on, when it counts an increasing number of as we get deeper and deeper within the season.” — Paul Gutierrez
Chargers storyline to observe: As a part of their schedule launch rollout, the Chargers’ social workforce posted Raiders wideout Adams subsequent to a garbage-flavored Pop-Tart graphic. The publish upset Adams, who took to the “Up & Adams Present” to remind the team and the fans of his success in opposition to them since he was traded to the Raiders. The Chargers’ secondary will look to again up the social workforce’s trash discuss in opposition to Adams, who has averaged 123.5 yards in opposition to Los Angeles in 4 video games as a Raider. — Kris Rhim
Stat to know: This might be Jim Harbaugh’s first sport as an NFL coach because the 2014 season. He has the fifth-best win share (.695) as a head coach in NFL historical past.
Daring prediction: The Raiders will rating lower than 14 factors. They’ve gifted gamers on this offense, do not get me fallacious. Adams is a famous person, No. 2 receiver Jakobi Meyers is completely underrated and Kolton Miller is a really dependable sort out. However I am simply having a tough time shopping for Minshew with out Shane Steichen — his playcaller in Indianapolis — as a critical risk. I believe the Raiders stumble out of the gates. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Raiders operating again Zamir White. The Chargers’ protection was among the many worst in yards allowed per sport and struggled in opposition to the run in 2023. Regardless of Harbaugh and new defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, their entrance seven ought to nonetheless be weak. With the Raiders’ QB state of affairs being lower than splendid, count on Las Vegas to lean on White. He had 20-plus touches in every of his closing 4 video games final season and completed because the eighth-best fantasy RB in that span. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Raiders have been 12-5 ATS final season, tied with the Lions for the perfect report within the NFL. Unders have been 11-6 in Raiders video games. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Raiders 20, Chargers 17
Moody’s choose: Chargers 34, Raiders 17
Walder’s choose: Chargers 23, Raiders 13
FPI prediction: LAC, 63.3% (by a median of 5.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Longest-tenured Raider Kolton Miller is heart of O-line … Harbaugh is trying to change the Chargers’ losing culture; here’s how he’s doing it
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: SEA -6 (41.5 O/U)
Broncos storyline to observe: Broncos rookie QB Bo Nix hasn’t taken a regular-season snap however has already carved out a slice of franchise historical past — he is the primary rookie to be named a team captain since Corridor of Fame RB Floyd Little in 1967. And when he opens the sport in opposition to the Seahawks he would be the first rookie quarterback to begin for coach Sean Payton and the first rookie signal-caller to start a Broncos opener since one other Corridor of Famer, John Elway, did in 1983. So, expectations are swirling round Nix, whose inaugural sport might be held in a troublesome place to play in opposition to a artistic defensive teaching employees in its first 12 months. How Nix handles it’s going to bear watching. — Jeff Legwold
Seahawks storyline to observe: The Mike Macdonald period in Seattle begins on Sunday. Along with Macdonald’s head-coaching debut, the Seahawks’ opener will mark the disclosing of the brand new schemes they’ve put in on each side of the ball. The protection Macdonald has imported from Baltimore — the perfect within the NFL over his two seasons as coordinator — is constructed round being troublesome for opponents to decipher. Nix must do this amid the din of Lumen Subject. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: The Broncos have misplaced 4 of their previous 5 season openers. Every loss was by one rating, together with one-point losses in every of the previous two seasons.
Daring prediction: Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith will report 200 passing yards within the first half. I believe there’s an opportunity that Ryan Grubb’s offense will get off to a lightning-fast begin with a pass-heavy strategy that results in massive numbers for Smith and a blowout win for the Seahawks. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Broncos operating again Javonte Williams. He is anticipated to steer Denver’s backfield in touches and might be up in opposition to a Seahawks protection that gave up the third-most fantasy factors per sport to backs final season. Williams ought to see loads of motion as each a runner and receiver in Nix’s first regular-season begin. Denver’s operating backs had a league-leading 32% goal share in 2023. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Broncos have been 6-11 ATS final season. Over the previous two seasons, they’re 13-21 ATS, tied with the Saints for the worst within the NFL. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Seahawks 24, Broncos 14
Moody’s choose: Seahawks 23, Broncos 20
Walder’s choose: Seahawks 31, Broncos 14
FPI prediction: SEA, 66.7% (by a median of 6.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Welcome to the NFL, rookie: Nix will face significant early tests … Seahawks leaving new Smith deal ‘aside’ for now … How Broncos fell into the NFL cellar and what’s next … Woolen entering Year 3 with more to prove
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CLE -2.5 (40.5 O/U)
Cowboys storyline to observe: The Cowboys might be beginning two rookies on the offensive line for the primary time since 2011, and one in every of them, left sort out Tyler Guyton, might be going in opposition to the reigning Defensive Participant of the 12 months, Myles Garrett. The opposite, heart Cooper Beebe, might be requested to make the calls in opposition to a protection that was the perfect at dwelling final season. The Cowboys is not going to ask Guyton to dam Garrett alone on a regular basis, however there might be occasions when he must face Garrett one-on-one. Quarterback Dak Prescott has confidence within the two rookies, however their first sport at a troublesome venue in opposition to a high protection might be a problem. — Todd Archer
Browns storyline to observe: The Browns will unveil a revamped offense they hope can get QB Deshaun Watson again to Professional Bowl kind, however Cleveland has questions past its beginning signal-caller. Left sort out Jedrick Wills Jr. instructed reporters he will not begin as he continues to come back again from a season-ending knee injury, which might pressure proper sort out Jack Conklin to maneuver to the left facet, a place he hasn’t performed since faculty. It might be a troublesome transition for Conklin, who’s coming back from his personal season-ending knee injury, in opposition to a cross rush led by Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons. — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: Broad receiver CeeDee Lamb is 5 receptions away from being the quickest Cowboys participant to succeed in 400 profession receptions, passing Dez Bryant (80 video games).
Daring prediction: Browns huge receiver Cedric Tillman will rating a landing. The 2023 third-rounder turned heads this offseason and figures to play into Cleveland’s offensive plans this season. Plus, the Cowboys are hurting at nook with DaRon Bland out 6-8 weeks with a foot injury. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Browns operating again Jerome Ford. The Cowboys’ protection led the league in cross rush win charge final season (59.5%) however was unable to cease the run, ending twenty seventh in run cease win charge (28.6%). It might be sensible for the Browns to be balanced on offense even with operating again Nick Chubb on the physically unable to perform list. Final season, in aid of Chubb throughout Week 2 in opposition to the Steelers, Ford scored 24.1 fantasy factors, and he averaged 12.9 factors throughout Weeks 3-17. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Browns have been 7-0 ATS as dwelling favorites final season. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Cowboys 30, Browns 21
Moody’s choose: Cowboys 24, Browns 21
Walder’s choose: Browns 28, Cowboys 24
FPI prediction: DAL, 51.0% (by a median of 0.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Cowboys coach McCarthy sees ‘opportunity’ in lame-duck season … Browns’ Watson has ‘no doubt’ he’s still one of NFL’s elite QBs … Cowboys keeping Elliott fresh for RB committee role … How Browns hope to unlock Watson, offense in 2024
4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: TB -3.5 (42.5 O/U)
Commanders storyline to observe: Washington will open the season with a brand new beginning quarterback for the eighth consecutive season. Rookie QB Jayden Daniels can also be the third first-round choose to begin for the group since Robert Griffin III in 2012. Washington has positioned a number of religion in Daniels, however he’ll face a troublesome process in opposition to a protection that blitzed the third most within the NFL final season. As an LSU senior in 2023, Daniels ranked fifth in Division I with a 93.5 QBR vs. the blitz — with 17 landing passes and no interceptions and solely 10 sacks in 117 performs. — John Keim
Buccaneers storyline to observe: Whereas the Bucs had the seventh-best protection final season by way of factors allowed per sport (19.1), they surrendered 65 cross performs of 20 or extra yards — second most. In addition they surrendered six dashing touchdowns to opposing quarterbacks — which tied for second most. Given Daniels’ well-documented deep ball and dashing prowess, these are potential vulnerabilities with some comparatively unproven guys on protection moving into larger roles at edge rusher and cornerback. “[Daniels is] like Lamar Jackson 2.0,” Bucs defensive again Tavierre Thomas stated. — Jenna Laine
Stat to know: The Commanders allowed 30.5 factors per sport final season, which was the fourth most by any workforce over the previous decade.
Daring prediction: Bucs cornerback Jamel Dean will intercept Daniels. Whereas Terry McLaurin is an efficient receiver, he has by no means been an elite separator, so Dean figures to be across the ball lots when he is on the Commanders’ No. 1 wideout. Irrespective of how good a prospect Daniels is, he is nonetheless a rookie in his professional debut. He’ll most likely present an interception alternative or two. — Walder
Accidents: Commanders | Buccaneers
Fantasy X issue: Buccaneers huge receiver Chris Godwin. Final season, the Commanders’ protection gave up the second-most fantasy factors per sport to huge receivers and struggled mightily in opposition to slot receivers. Washington’s group of cornerbacks remains to be a priority. With new Buccaneers offensive coordinator Liam Coen’s scheme, Godwin is predicted to play primarily within the slot. He has cleared 1,000 receiving yards in every of the previous three seasons, averaging 8.6 targets per sport. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Bucs QB Baker Mayfield is 13-26-1 ATS in his profession as a favourite, the worst mark of any signal-caller with at the very least 30 begins as a favourite within the Tremendous Bowl period. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Commanders 21, Bucs 17
Moody’s choose: Buccaneers 30, Commanders 20
Walder’s choose: Buccaneers 23, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: TB, 62.3% (by a median of 5.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bucs QB Mayfield looking to take ‘next step’ in 2024 … How vets Ertz, Ekeler earned roles to help rookie QB Daniels
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: DET -4.5 (52.5 O/U)
Rams storyline to observe: Rams WR Puka Nacua missed three weeks throughout coaching camp with a knee injury however is on observe to play in Week 1. Final season, he not solely set the NFL rookie record for receptions (105) and receiving yards (1,486) in the course of the common season, however then had his greatest sport of the season within the Rams’ playoff loss to the Lions. In that sport, Nacua had 9 catches for 181 yards and a landing, setting the NFL report for many receiving yards by a rookie in a playoff sport. — Sarah Barshop
Lions storyline to observe: Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs says he is wholesome after being sidelined in the course of the preseason with a hamstring injury. Gibbs is as soon as once more anticipated to be an enormous a part of the Lions’ offense. Lions coach Dan Campbell stated Gibbs, who made the Professional Bowl as a rookie, seems to be good coming off the damage and heading into 12 months 2. “When you may run like he runs — I imply this man can run — then should you do not [test] that pace in observe at the very least a few times a day, you set your self up for one thing [bad] to occur on Sunday,” Campbell stated. — Eric Woodyard
Stat to know: Rams RB Kyren Williams had seven straight video games with 100 scrimmage yards to finish final season, which is the longest energetic streak within the NFL.
Daring prediction: The Rams will generate constructive EPA per play on designed carries. There’s some blind Sean McVay religion in right here as a result of Detroit allowed minus-.09 EPA per play on designed carries final season, however I am positively to see how the brand new inside of the Rams line — with Kevin Dotson and Jonah Jackson becoming a member of Steve Avila — fares. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Lions quarterback Jared Goff. His reference to huge receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is simple, and he is additionally throwing to a breakout candidate in receiver Jameson Williams. Goff is up in opposition to a Rams protection that allowed the third-most fantasy factors per sport to quarterbacks final season. Additionally, Goff has averaged 25.2 fantasy factors per sport at dwelling over the previous two seasons. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Lions have been 11-6 to the over final season, tied with the Browns and Colts for the very best over share. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: Lions 30, Rams 24
Moody’s choose: Lions 35, Rams 31
Walder’s choose: Lions 34, Rams 27
FPI prediction: DET, 63.5% (by a median of 5.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Rams rookies Verse and Fiske were college friends, now pro teammates … Lions now a destination for free agents, GM Holmes says
2:10
Stephen A. curious whether or not Lions can dwell as much as lofty expectations
Stephen A. Smith picks the Lions to win the NFC North however questions whether or not the workforce can win a Tremendous Bowl.
Monday, 8:20 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: SF -4.5 (43.5 O/U)
Jets storyline to observe: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers faces a well-known opponent in his extremely anticipated return from Achilles surgery. Rodgers has a 6-3 regular-season report in opposition to the 49ers — with 20 landing passes and two interceptions. He might be trying to snap a Week 1 hunch. In his previous three openers, he compiled two losses, no landing passes and one season-ending injury. — Wealthy Cimini
49ers storyline to observe: If the 49ers’ offense and the Jets’ protection are something like they have been in 2023, this may very well be probably the most entertaining battles of the season. Because the 1970 merger, this would be the first time the workforce that led the NFL in offensive yards per play (49ers, 6.6) meets the protection that led the NFL in fewest yards allowed per play (Jets, 4.6) from the prior season in an opener. Jets coach Robert Saleh was the defensive coordinator below Niners coach Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco from 2017 by way of 2020, which solely makes the matchup of Saleh’s protection versus Shanahan’s offense much more fascinating. — Nick Wagoner
Stat to know: In 2023, the Jets allowed the fewest passing yards to huge receivers by any workforce because the 2016 Broncos (1,588).
Daring prediction: 49ers huge receiver Brandon Aiyuk will report below 20 receiving yards in opposition to cornerback Sauce Gardner. I believe Gardner’s Defensive Participant of the 12 months marketing campaign begins in Week 1 by shutting down the newly paid Aiyuk. It’s going to assist that Aiyuk has been out of shape for thus lengthy and could be rusty. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: The Jets’ secondary. With Gardner main the way in which, New York allowed the fewest fantasy factors per sport to huge receivers final season. The full on ESPN BET doesn’t mean a high-scoring sport. This may very well be an incredible spot for operating again Christian McCaffrey and tight finish George Kittle. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: In three seasons below Saleh, the Jets are 20-31 ATS, tied for the second-worst report within the NFL. Read more.
Kahler’s choose: 49ers 21, Jets 13
Moody’s choose: 49ers 21, Jets 17
Walder’s choose: 49ers 20, Jets 16
FPI prediction: SF, 64.1% (by a median of 6.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Jets coach: ‘Like finding change’ in couch if Reddick shows … Aiyuk back practicing with 49ers … Jets coach Saleh looking to ‘reconnect’ the dots … 49ers’ Williams ends holdout, reaches $82.66M deal
