NFL Week 1 recreation information: Matchup keys, predictions and rating picks for each recreation

The Week 1 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we have got you lined with what it’s essential know heading into the weekend.

Our NFL Nation reporters carry us the largest keys to each recreation, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Stats & Data workforce gives a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a recreation projection. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X elements, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each recreation. The whole lot you need to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.

Let’s get into the complete 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.)

Soar 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 look at: 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 point out that their protection will likely be completely different. — Rob Demovsky

Eagles storyline to look at: 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 bear in mind — I used to be carrying sun shades, it was sunny, I used to be simply type of taking my sun shades off and a few coaches like, ‘All proper, that is superior that we bought him right here,'” coach Nick Sirianni mentioned. 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 resembling 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 vast receiver A.J. Brown will file 100 or extra receiving yards. The Eagles’ offense vs. the Packers’ protection pits two new schemes towards one another, so there are a variety of unknowns. With that uncertainty, I need to guess on participant ability, which Brown has in abundance. He recorded an 80-plus open rating in ESPN’s receiver monitoring metrics in every of the previous three seasons, so regardless of the system, he’ll be open. — Walder

Accidents: Packers | Eagles

Fantasy X issue: Packers vast receiver Jayden Reed. The Eagles gave up essentially the most fantasy factors to vast receivers final season, particularly struggling towards slot receivers. Reed, who lined up within the slot 67% of the time in 2023, might carry out effectively towards a Philadelphia secondary that is gone by a variety of modifications. He scored 15-plus fantasy factors in seven of his previous eight video games. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Packers coach Matt LaFleur is 20-7 towards the unfold (ATS) and 16-11 outright in his profession as an underdog. Each are the most effective data amongst coaches with no less than 15 video games as an underdog within the Tremendous Bowl period. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Packers 28, Eagles 24
Moody’s decide: Packers 30, Eagles 23
Walder’s decide: Eagles 24, Packers 23
FPI prediction: PHI, 57.5% (by a mean 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 changing Packers’ LT Bakhtiari

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: ATL -3.5 (41.5 O/U)

Steelers storyline to look at: With a lot consideration on the Steelers’ quarterbacks, their offseason defensive additions flew below the radar. That ends Sunday, when inside linebacker Patrick Queen will likely be a key a part of the plan to gradual RB Bijan Robinson. The Steelers can depend 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 look at: If the Falcons’ anemic move 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 move rush win fee in 2023 (30.9%). — Marc Raimondi

Stat to know: The Steelers have a 15-2-1 file towards the Falcons. Pittsburgh’s final loss to Atlanta was in 2006.

Daring prediction: Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. will file 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 decide off QB Kirk Cousins. — Walder

Accidents: Steelers | Falcons

Fantasy X issue: Falcons tight finish Kyle Pitts. Atlanta’s offense must 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 move rush win fee (46.6%), and wideout Drake London faces a troublesome matchup towards Porter. Pitts ought to discover success beneath towards a Steelers workforce that ranked within the prime 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 file within the NFL. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Falcons 20, Steelers 12
Moody’s decide: Falcons 24, Steelers 21
Walder’s decide: Falcons 19, Steelers 16
FPI prediction: ATL, 58.8% (by a mean of three.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Can Wilson, Fields redeem Steelers’ offense? … Kirk Cousins says Falcons ‘have probability to do one thing’

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -6.5 (48.5 O/U)

Cardinals storyline to look at: Sunday would be the extremely anticipated debut of Cardinals rookie WR Marvin Harrison Jr., and there will be a lot to look at 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 recreation? 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 look at: How precisely this Payments offense appears to be like in Week 1 will likely be intriguing to see. The vast receiver room underwent main change this offseason, and Joe Brady is taking on the offensive coordinator position full-time. The primary-team offense, now wholesome, noticed restricted enjoying time within the preseason, with eight snaps for QB Josh Allen. This would be the first vital recreation motion the group will get. It is going to be a great alternative for Allen and the offense to start out the 12 months at residence towards a Cardinals protection that allowed the second-most factors per recreation 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 vast receiver Khalil Shakir will file seven or extra receptions. Rookie Keon Coleman would possibly at some point flip into this workforce’s No. 1 receiver, however Shakir is probably going essentially the most dependable wideout proper now, particularly after posting a powerful 2.1 yards per route run final season. I am assured he’ll do harm towards a weak Cardinals protection. — Walder

Accidents: Cardinals | Payments

Fantasy X issue: Payments working again James Prepare dinner. The Cardinals had the league’s worst run protection final season, rating thirty second in dashing yards allowed per recreation (143.2). With minimal offseason additions, Arizona’s defensive entrance stays weak, setting the stage for Prepare dinner to have a standout efficiency. He averaged 19.6 touches and 16.4 fantasy factors per recreation throughout Weeks 11-18 final season. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Murray is 12-7-1 ATS in his profession when getting no less than 4 factors, together with 10-4-1 ATS on the street. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Cardinals 21, Payments 20
Moody’s decide: Payments 31, Cardinals 24
Walder’s decide: Payments 33, Cardinals 17
FPI prediction: BUF, 67.7% (by a mean of seven.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How Murray, Cardinals hope a visit to L.A. interprets to in-season wins camaraderie … The evolution of Buffalo’s roster and QB Allen’s management expectations

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: CIN -8.5 (40.5 O/U)

Patriots storyline to look at: 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 towards the Bengals’ high-end line of defense that a lot harder. New England ranked final within the NFL in move block win fee (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 look at: Regardless that the Bengals are an 8.5-point favourite, New England’s secondary will function a great check for Cincinnati’s passing assault. Quarterback Joe Burrow is in his first recreation again from a wrist harm. 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 contains a beginning cornerback combo of Jonathan Jones, who had sturdy defensive protection numbers final season, and Christian Gonzalez, a 2023 first-round decide coming off a season-ending shoulder harm. — 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 file within the NFL.

Daring prediction: The Bengals will rating a defensive or particular groups landing. I do not know what the brand new kickoff will carry, however I’ve to suppose no less than in Week 1 — when groups would possibly unleash a trick or two — there must be an elevated probability of a kick returned for a rating. And given the state of the Patriots’ offense, significantly its offensive line, I believe a catastrophic error in some unspecified time in the future is not that unlikely. I even have a mannequin for this, and it offers Cincinnati a greater probability of a D/ST rating than anybody in Week 1 (17% probability, although take the quantity with a grain of salt given the brand new kickoff). — Walder

Accidents: Patriots | Bengals

Fantasy X issue: Patriots working again Rhamondre Stevenson. The Bengals’ getting older line of defense struggled final season, rating twenty sixth in run cease win fee (29.2%), and 2024 may not be higher, particularly with out DJ Reader. Count on 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 recreation thus far in his profession. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Previously 25 seasons, groups laying over a landing (no less than 7.5 factors) in Week 1 are 20-36 ATS. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Bengals 28, Patriots 13
Moody’s decide: Bengals 24, Patriots 13
Walder’s decide: Bengals 20, Patriots 16
FPI prediction: CIN, 75.0% (by a mean of 10.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Brissett’s journey to turning into Patriots’ beginning QB … Bengals consider if Chase performs, he’ll make affect … What’s subsequent for Patriots QB Maye?

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CHI -3.5 (44.5 O/U)

Titans storyline to look at: There is not a lot movie on Titans defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson since that is his first time absolutely working his personal present, however he cited aggressive coordinators Gregg Williams and Todd Bowles as main influences on his philosophy. The rule of thumb is at all times to assault a rookie quarterback, so anticipate 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 move rush have to be coordinated, with no “unbiased contractors,” as outdoors linebacker Harold Landry III put it. — Turron Davenport

Bears storyline to look at: Williams goals to turn into 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 decide 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 start out 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 elements of the sport and early downs, he is simply requested to play level guard,” coach Matt Eberflus mentioned of Williams. “Have a fantastic 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 working and shifting round and gaining the yards.” — Courtney Cronin

Stat to know: Bears working 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 file no less than one sack. My mannequin offers him a 43% probability, however I like Key — an underrated participant who had a 20% move rush win fee final 12 months — to get it carried out towards Williams. Whereas an outstanding prospect, Williams did will be inclined to take sacks in school (83 in three seasons). — Walder

Accidents: Titans | Bears

Fantasy X issue: Titans working again Tyjae Spears. The Bears’ protection improved considerably within the second half of final season. Nonetheless, it nonetheless allowed essentially the most receiving yards to working backs. Spears, who completed final season with the ninth-most targets amongst RBs (70) and 838 whole 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 general are 0-14-1 outright and 1-14 ATS of their first profession begins since 2003. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Bears 20, Titans 17
Moody’s decide: Bears 21, Titans 14
Walder’s decide: Titans 23, Bears 20
FPI prediction: CHI, 64.6% (by a mean of 6.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: DeAndre Hopkins returns to Titans observe, might play opener … Bears’ Williams OK with recreation plan for Titans, not involved about stats … Titans look the half on paper after $228M spending spree

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: HOU -3 (48.5 O/U)

Texans storyline to look at: QB C.J. Stroud threw for 648 yards and 4 landing passes in two video games towards the Colts throughout his rookie season. That was with out newly added All-Professional receiver Stefon Diggs. Now Stroud’s playmakers embody 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 towards Indianapolis. — DJ Bien-Aime

Colts storyline to look at: The Colts are counting closely on their defensive entrance to create constant strain towards 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 energy, 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 submit 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 in regards to the Texans’ protection, which I believe may very well be very tough for Richardson to beat. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter are going to provide the second-year QB a tough time. — Walder

Accidents: Texans | Colts

Fantasy X issue: Texans working again Joe Mixon. The Colts’ protection struggled to comprise working backs final season, giving up the fifth-most fantasy factors per recreation to the place. Mixon faces minimal competitors for snaps and touches in Week 1, setting him up for an enormous position in a high-scoring recreation. The Texans should not have any hassle shifting the ball by the air towards 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). Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Colts 18, Texans 17
Moody’s decide: Texans 30, Colts 21
Walder’s decide: Texans 30, Colts 7
FPI prediction: HOU, 53.7% (by a mean of 1.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Texans not working from Tremendous Bowl expectations … Colts GM Chris Ballard defends strategy amid combined outcomes

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1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: MIA -3.5 (48.5 O/U)

Jaguars storyline to look at: The brand new guys on offense — receivers Gabe Davis and rookie Brian Thomas Jr. — have been added with one essential aim in thoughts: Stretch the sphere 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 most effective 12 months of his profession when it comes to deep throws — 13-of-42 on throws of no less than 25 yards within the air for 505 yards — and the Jaguars have set the stage for him to take extra pictures down the sphere. — Mike DiRocco

Dolphins storyline to look at: The Jaguars bought 27.5 sacks out of Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker final season, and on paper, the 2 move rushers have a bonus towards 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 mentioned it’ll take a workforce effort to decelerate the Jacksonville duo. Dolphins receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle additionally returned from minor accidents this week, giving the league’s prime offense in 2023 its main move catchers. — Marcel Louis-Jacques

Stat to know: Hill has averaged 109.9 receiving yards per recreation in eight season openers. That is essentially the most profession receiving yards per recreation in season openers in NFL historical past (minimal 5 video games performed).

Daring prediction: Dolphins working 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 start out the 2024 season, I anticipate him to place up enormous numbers. — Walder

Accidents: Jaguars | Dolphins

Fantasy X issue: Dolphins working 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 draw back from the working recreation towards 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. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Dolphins 31, Jaguars 21
Moody’s decide: Dolphins 28, Jaguars 21
Walder’s decide: Dolphins 34, Jaguars 21
FPI prediction: MIA, 59.8% (by a mean of 4.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Can Jaguars’ Hines-Allen construct a legacy in Jacksonville? … Dolphins rookie DE Robinson taking ideas from OT Armstead

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: NO -4 (41.5 O/U)

Panthers storyline to look at: Eight of QB Bryce Younger’s 62 sacks final season got here towards 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 do away with the ball in not more than 2.7 seconds and introduced in receiver Diontae Johnson, who can create separation to get open shortly. All will likely be essential towards what may very well be a top-10 Saints protection. — David Newton

Saints storyline to look at: 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 bought damage. Now Penning is again within the lineup at proper sort out, with rookie first-round decide Taliese Fuaga manning the left aspect. The Saints spent the offseason overhauling the offense and employed new coordinator Klint Kubiak to implement a brand new scheme. Defending Carr will likely be a key factor to look at 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 working again Alvin Kamara will file 55 or extra receiving yards. A slew of things are pointing me in that path. The Saints have a leaky offensive line and the Panthers have a sneaky strong cornerback duo in Michael Jackson and Jaycee Horn. Plus, Carolina defensive sort out Derrick Brown will deal with stuffing the Saints’ different working again, Jamaal Williams, up the center. Kamara catching passes gives the trail of least resistance for the offense. — Walder

Accidents: Panthers | Saints

Fantasy X issue: Panthers working 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 prone 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 must be closely relied on by the Panthers towards the Saints. See Week 1 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Unders have been 12-5 in Panthers video games final season, the very best below proportion within the NFL. The Panthers have been 6-11 ATS final season with the second-worst common cowl margin within the NFL (minus-5.6). Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Saints 17, Panthers 9
Moody’s decide: Saints 17, Panthers 14
Walder’s decide: Panthers 20, Saints 17
FPI prediction: NO, 64.4% (by a mean of 5.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Will Younger shine below new Panthers coach Canales? … Chase Younger, backup QBs and extra: 5 questions looming for Saints

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1 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: MIN -1.5 (41.5 O/U)

Vikings storyline to look at: The Vikings are kicking off one of many least-anticipated seasons of their current historical past. ESPN Analytics offers them a 14% probability 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 harm put Sam Darnold on the helm of a marketing campaign that features the NFL’s fifth-most tough schedule. The excellent news is that the Vikings are slight favorites in Week 1 on the Giants, essentially the most winnable recreation on paper within the first half of the season. — Kevin Seifert

Giants storyline to look at: It is the primary profession recreation for 2024 No. 6 decide Malik Nabers, the Giants’ clear-cut No. 1 receiver. He will get a good matchup in Week 1 towards a Vikings protection that allowed a wholesome 80.6 yards per recreation 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, making an attempt to comprise the explosive Nabers who — if coaching camp is any indication — must be focused early and sometimes as a rookie this season. — Jordan Raanan

Stat to know: Darnold has a 42 whole 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 significant position — will file no less than 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 prone to do away with the ball shortly. Johnson may very well be the beneficiary. — Walder

Accidents: Vikings | Giants

Fantasy X issue: Vikings working again Aaron Jones. The Giants’ protection gave up the Tenth-most fantasy factors allowed per recreation to working 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). Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Vikings 17, Giants 14
Moody’s decide: Giants 21, Vikings 17
Walder’s decide: Vikings 26, Giants 18
FPI prediction: NYG, 49.9% (by a mean of 0.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Is Darnold able to be Vikings’ season-long beginning QB? … Brian Burns stands out as the lacking piece for Giants’ D … What Vikings GM Adofo-Mensah realized from disastrous 2022 draft

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4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LAC -3 (40.5 O/U)

Raiders storyline to look at: 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 each day … it is one thing that we’re decided to proceed to construct on all through all the 12 months,” mentioned Adams, who can turn into certainly one of 4 gamers in NFL historical past with no less than 100 catches in 4 straight seasons. “We need to proceed to get higher because the 12 months goes on, when it counts increasingly as we get deeper and deeper within the season.” — Paul Gutierrez

Chargers storyline to look at: 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 submit upset Adams, who took to the “Up & Adams Present” to remind the workforce and the followers of his success towards them since he was traded to the Raiders. The Chargers’ secondary will look to again up the social workforce’s trash discuss towards Adams, who has averaged 123.5 yards towards Los Angeles in 4 video games as a Raider. — Kris Rhim

Stat to know: This will likely be Jim Harbaugh’s first recreation as an NFL coach because the 2014 season. He has the fifth-best win proportion (.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 mistaken. Adams is a celebrity, 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 severe risk. I believe the Raiders stumble out of the gates. — Walder

Accidents: Raiders | Chargers

Fantasy X issue: Raiders working again Zamir White. The Chargers’ protection was among the many worst in yards allowed per recreation and struggled towards 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 scenario being lower than excellent, anticipate Las Vegas to lean on White. He had 20-plus touches in every of his remaining 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 most effective file within the NFL. Unders have been 11-6 in Raiders video games. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Raiders 20, Chargers 17
Moody’s decide: Chargers 34, Raiders 17
Walder’s decide: Chargers 23, Raiders 13
FPI prediction: LAC, 63.3% (by a mean of 5.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Longest-tenured Raider Kolton Miller is coronary heart of O-line … Harbaugh is making an attempt to alter the Chargers’ shedding tradition; here is how he is doing it

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4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: SEA -6 (41.5 O/U)

Broncos storyline to look at: 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 workforce captain since Corridor of Fame RB Floyd Little in 1967. And when he opens the sport towards the Seahawks he would be the first rookie quarterback to start out for coach Sean Payton and the primary rookie signal-caller to start out a Broncos opener since one other Corridor of Famer, John Elway, did in 1983. So expectations are swirling round Nix, whose inaugural recreation will likely be held in a troublesome place to play towards a artistic defensive teaching workers in its first 12 months. How Nix handles it’s going to bear watching. — Jeff Legwold

Seahawks storyline to look at: The Mike Macdonald period in Seattle begins on Sunday. Along with Macdonald’s head-coaching debut, the Seahawks’ opener will mark the revealing of the brand new schemes they’ve put in on either side of the ball. The protection Macdonald has imported from Baltimore — the most effective within the NFL over his two seasons as coordinator — is constructed round being tough for opponents to decipher. Nix should do this amid the din of Lumen Discipline. — 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 file 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 large numbers for Smith and a blowout win for the Seahawks. — Walder

Accidents: Broncos | Seahawks

Fantasy X issue: Broncos working again Javonte Williams. He is anticipated to guide Denver’s backfield in touches and will likely be up towards a Seahawks protection that gave up the third-most fantasy factors per recreation 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 working 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. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Seahawks 24, Broncos 14
Moody’s decide: Seahawks 23, Broncos 20
Walder’s decide: Seahawks 31, Broncos 14
FPI prediction: SEA, 66.7% (by a mean of 6.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Welcome to the NFL, rookie: Nix will face vital early checks … Seahawks leaving new Smith deal ‘apart’ for now … How Broncos fell into the NFL cellar and what’s subsequent … Woolen getting into Yr 3 with extra to show

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: CLE -2.5 (40.5 O/U)

Cowboys storyline to look at: The Cowboys will likely be beginning two rookies on the offensive line for the primary time since 2011, and certainly one of them, left sort out Tyler Guyton, will likely be going towards the reigning Defensive Participant of the Yr, Myles Garrett. The opposite, heart Cooper Beebe, will likely be requested to make the calls towards a protection that was the most effective at residence final season. The Cowboys is not going to ask Guyton to dam Garrett alone on a regular basis, however there will likely be occasions when he should face Garrett one-on-one. Quarterback Dak Prescott has confidence within the two rookies, however their first recreation at a tough venue towards a prime protection will likely be a problem. — Todd Archer

Browns storyline to look at: 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 harm, which might drive proper sort out Jack Conklin to maneuver to the left aspect, a place he hasn’t performed since school. It will be a troublesome transition for Conklin, who’s coming back from his personal season-ending knee harm, towards a move 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 achieve 400 profession receptions, passing Dez Bryant (80 video games).

Daring prediction: Browns vast 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 harm. — Walder

Accidents: Cowboys | Browns

Fantasy X issue: Browns working again Jerome Ford. The Cowboys’ protection led the league in move rush win fee final season (59.5%) however was unable to cease the run, ending twenty seventh in run cease win fee (28.6%). It will be clever for the Browns to be balanced on offense even with working again Nick Chubb on the bodily unable to carry out checklist. Final season, in aid of Chubb throughout Week 2 towards 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 residence favorites final season. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Cowboys 30, Browns 21
Moody’s decide: Cowboys 24, Browns 21
Walder’s decide: Browns 28, Cowboys 24
FPI prediction: DAL, 51.0% (by a mean of 0.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Cowboys coach McCarthy sees ‘alternative’ in lame-duck season … Browns’ Watson has ‘little question’ he is nonetheless certainly one of NFL’s elite QBs … Cowboys protecting Elliott contemporary for RB committee position … How Browns hope to unlock Watson, offense in 2024

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4:25 p.m. ET | Fox | ESPN BET: TB -3.5 (42.5 O/U)

Commanders storyline to look at: 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 decide to start out for the group since Robert Griffin III in 2012. Washington has positioned a variety of religion in Daniels, however he’ll face a troublesome activity towards a protection that blitzed the third most within the NFL final season. As an LSU senior in 2023, Daniels ranked fifth within the nation 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 look at: Whereas the Bucs had the seventh-best protection final season when it comes to factors allowed per recreation (19.1), they surrendered 65 move performs of 20 or extra yards — second most. Additionally 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 mentioned. — Jenna Laine

Stat to know: The Commanders allowed 30.5 factors per recreation 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 a lot when he is on the Commanders’ No. 1 wideout. Regardless 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 vast receiver Chris Godwin. Final season, the Commanders’ protection gave up the second-most fantasy factors per recreation to vast receivers and struggled mightily towards slot receivers. Washington’s group of cornerbacks continues 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 recreation. 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 no less than 30 begins as a favourite within the Tremendous Bowl period. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Commanders 21, Buccaneers 17
Moody’s decide: Buccaneers 30, Commanders 20
Walder’s decide: Buccaneers 23, Commanders 17
FPI prediction: TB, 62.3% (by a mean of 5.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Bucs QB Mayfield seeking to take ‘subsequent step’ in 2024 … How vets Ertz, Ekeler earned roles to assist rookie QB Daniels

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8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: DET -4.5 (52.5 O/U)

Rams storyline to look at: Rams WR Puka Nacua missed three weeks throughout coaching camp with a knee harm however is on monitor to play in Week 1. Final season, he not solely set the NFL rookie file for receptions (105) and receiving yards (1,486) in the course of the common season, however then had his greatest recreation of the season within the Rams’ playoff loss to the Lions. In that recreation, Nacua had 9 catches for 181 yards and a landing, setting the NFL file for many receiving yards by a rookie in a playoff recreation. — Sarah Barshop

Lions storyline to look at: Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs says he is wholesome after being sidelined in the course of the preseason with a hamstring harm. Gibbs is as soon as once more anticipated to be a giant a part of the Lions’ offense. Lions coach Dan Campbell mentioned Gibbs, who made the Professional Bowl as a rookie, appears to be like good coming off the harm and heading into Yr 2. “When you possibly can run like he runs — I imply this man can run — then if you happen to do not [test] that pace in observe no less than a few times a day, you set your self up for one thing [bad] to occur on Sunday,” Campbell mentioned. — 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 optimistic 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 undoubtedly 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

Accidents: Rams | Lions

Fantasy X issue: Lions quarterback Jared Goff. His reference to vast receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is simple, and he is additionally throwing to a breakout candidate in receiver Jameson Williams. Goff is up towards a Rams protection that allowed the third-most fantasy factors per recreation to quarterbacks final season. Additionally, Goff has averaged 25.2 fantasy factors per recreation at residence 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 proportion. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: Lions 30, Rams 24
Moody’s decide: Lions 35, Rams 31
Walder’s decide: Lions 34, Rams 27
FPI prediction: DET, 63.5% (by a mean of 5.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Rams rookies Verse and Fiske have been school pals, now professional teammates … Lions now a vacation spot at no cost brokers, GM Holmes says

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Monday, 8:20 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC/ESPN+ | ESPN BET: SF -4.5 (43.5 O/U)

Jets storyline to look at: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers faces a well-known opponent in his extremely anticipated return from Achilles surgical procedure. Rodgers has a 6-3 regular-season file towards the 49ers — with 20 landing passes and two interceptions. He will likely be seeking to snap a Week 1 stoop. In his previous three openers, he compiled two losses, no landing passes and one season-ending harm. — Wealthy Cimini

49ers storyline to look at: If the 49ers’ offense and the Jets’ protection are something like they have been in 2023, this may very well be one of the 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 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 vast receivers by any workforce because the 2016 Broncos (1,588).

Daring prediction: 49ers vast receiver Brandon Aiyuk will file below 20 receiving yards towards cornerback Sauce Gardner. I believe Gardner’s Defensive Participant of the Yr marketing campaign begins in Week 1 by shutting down the newly paid Aiyuk. It’s going to assist that Aiyuk has been out of form for therefore lengthy and is perhaps rusty. — Walder

Accidents: Jets | 49ers

Fantasy X issue: The Jets’ secondary. With Gardner main the way in which, New York allowed the fewest fantasy factors per recreation to vast receivers final season. The full on ESPN BET does not imply a high-scoring recreation. This may very well be a fantastic spot for working 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 file within the NFL. Learn extra.

Kahler’s decide: 49ers 21, Jets 13
Moody’s decide: 49ers 21, Jets 17
Walder’s decide: 49ers 20, Jets 16
FPI prediction: SF, 64.1% (by a mean of 6.0 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Jets coach: ‘Like discovering change’ in sofa if Reddick reveals … Aiyuk again working towards with 49ers … Jets coach Saleh seeking to ‘reconnect’ the dots … 49ers’ Williams ends holdout, reaches $82.66M deal