The 2024 NFL season is finally here! After an offseason brimming with excitement and player trades, the time has come for the games we’ve all been eagerly anticipating.
This piece dives into five bold predictions for the upcoming 2024 NFL season. Share your own hot takes in the comments below – we’ll revisit them in a few months to see how they’ve aged!
1. The Detroit Lions Will Roar into the Super Bowl
The Detroit Lions roared into the 2023 season, finishing with an impressive 12-5 record and securing a top-five spot in offensive points per game. They conquered two playoff games before a heartbreaking 34-31 loss to the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game.
It’s rare for a team to reach the Conference Championship and return even stronger the following season, but the Lions have done just that.
Detroit Lions celebrating a touchdown
They strategically bolstered their roster with a blend of rookie talent and seasoned veterans. Rookies like Teron Arnold and Andis Raw bring fresh energy, while the trade for veteran cornerback Carlton Davis adds experience and depth to the secondary.
This strategic move addresses a key weakness from the previous season, where the Lions’ passing defense struggled. By strengthening their secondary, Detroit has positioned themselves as a defensive powerhouse.
On the offensive front, the Lions are armed and dangerous. With a roster boasting names like Aman Ross St. Brown, a potentially breakout-ready Jameson Williams, and a reliable supporting cast in Jamaal Williams, Sam LaPorta, D’Andre Swift, and David Montgomery, scoring points won’t be an issue.
Anchored by one of the league’s best offensive lines, potentially even boasting the best lineman in Penei Sewell, the Lions’ offense is poised for a dominant season.
The Lions’ journey over the past few years has been building to this moment. Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have orchestrated a remarkable turnaround since taking the helm in January 2021.
Their 2024 schedule sets them up for a strong start, with home games against the Rams and Buccaneers (teams they defeated in the previous playoffs), followed by an away game against the Cardinals, and a home game against the Seahawks before their week five bye. A 4-0 start is a real possibility, setting the tone for a powerful season.
While the hot take is a Super Bowl appearance, a bolder prediction is a 7-0 record heading into their week eight matchup against the Green Bay Packers. With a well-rounded roster and elite players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions are a force to be reckoned with.
The Lions tasted playoff victory last year – 2024 might be the year they hoist the Lombardi Trophy.
2. Dennis Allen’s Tenure as Saints Head Coach Ends
The New Orleans Saints face an uphill battle with a challenging 2024 schedule. Their week one clash against the Carolina Panthers is a must-win, setting the tone for a difficult stretch.
Following the Panthers game, the Saints face formidable opponents in Dallas, Philly, Atlanta, Kansas City, and Tampa Bay. A 2-4 or even a 1-5 start is a harsh reality, placing head coach Dennis Allen squarely on the hot seat.
Dennis Allen coaching the New Orleans Saints
Allen’s 16-18 record over the past two seasons, coupled with a lack of playoff appearances, doesn’t inspire confidence. If the Saints stumble early, their playoff hopes could evaporate, especially with challenging games against the Falcons, Browns, Rams, Chargers, and Packers looming.
The Saints’ offensive line raises concerns. Rookie left tackle Trevor Penning, alongside the returning but underwhelming, first-round pick Trevor Penning at right tackle, doesn’t inspire confidence.
Their run game also needs work. The Saints ranked 31st in yards per carry last season. While there’s room for improvement, a significant turnaround seems unlikely.
Derek Carr’s arrival doesn’t guarantee offensive firepower. While Carr is a capable quarterback, his performance in the latter half of 2023 raises questions about his consistency.
The Saints’ 2023 success was partly due to a +11 turnover margin, ranking 4th in the league. Replicating this defensive dominance will be tough, especially with a more challenging schedule.
With a difficult schedule and questions surrounding the team’s performance, Dennis Allen’s future as head coach looks uncertain. A disappointing start to the season might be the final nail in the coffin.
3. The AFC East Will Send Three Teams to the Playoffs
The AFC East is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in football, and this prediction hinges on the potential of three teams: the Miami Dolphins, the Buffalo Bills, and the New York Jets.
While the Dolphins might not be Super Bowl contenders just yet, their offense, led by the dynamic duo of Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill, will be a nightmare for opposing defenses. If they can navigate a relatively manageable schedule, a 10-win season and a playoff berth are within reach.
Miami Dolphins quarterback throwing a pass
The Bills, despite some questioning their potential after losing key players, still boast a strong core. With Josh Allen at the helm, a talented offensive line, and a promising receiving corps, Buffalo is well-equipped to remain competitive.
The Jets, often overlooked, have a recipe for success with a strong defense and an improved offense led by Aaron Rodgers. If they can stay relatively healthy, a playoff berth is a real possibility.
The AFC East will be a battleground this season, and these three teams have the potential to represent the division in the postseason.
4. The Seattle Seahawks Will Soar Back into the Playoffs
The Seattle Seahawks are poised for a resurgence under new head coach Mike McDonald. After a frustrating 2023 season plagued by injuries and defensive struggles, Seattle is primed for a turnaround.
With a healthy offensive line, a dynamic running back duo in Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, and a resurgent Geno Smith, the Seahawks’ offense should be among the league’s best.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback throwing a pass
McDonald, a defensive mastermind, will be instrumental in solidifying the Seahawks’ defense. His innovative schemes, particularly his use of simulated pressures, will pose problems for opposing offenses.
While winning the division might be a stretch, a playoff berth is a realistic goal for the Seahawks. They are a team flying under the radar, ready to surprise many in 2024.
5. The Indianapolis Colts Will Secure a Playoff Victory
The Indianapolis Colts are a team on the rise, and with a talented roster and a favorable schedule, they are poised to make noise in the playoffs.
Quarterback Anthony Richardson’s dynamic skillset adds a new dimension to the Colts’ offense. Defenses will have to account for his dual-threat abilities, opening up opportunities for the running game and play-action passes.
Colts quarterback throwing a pass
Jonathan Taylor’s return from injury provides a massive boost to the run game. Taylor, when healthy, is one of the most dominant running backs in the NFL, capable of taking over games.
With a strong offensive line, a healthy Taylor, and the electrifying potential of Richardson, the Colts’ offense has the potential to be one of the most explosive in the league. The Colts are a team nobody will want to face in the playoffs, and with a little bit of luck, they could find themselves making a deep run.
