NFL Season Predictions: Week 1 Preview
The NFL season is finally here, and fans everywhere are gearing up to watch their favorite teams compete. While some may be glued to their screens, others, like one devoted husband, are choosing to spend quality time with their loved ones instead. In this article, we’ll dive into the predictions for Week 1 of the NFL, including game previews, storylines, score predictions, and standout players—affectionately called “yard dogs.”
Thursday Night Football: Ravens vs. Chiefs
The opening game of the season features a rematch of last year’s AFC Championship game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Kansas City Chiefs. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson still feels the sting of losing to Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in that game, which denied him a shot at a Super Bowl title. This year, the Chiefs are facing some challenges, particularly in their receiving corps, as Hollywood Brown is sidelined for the next four weeks. However, they do have the advantage of having their former first-round pick, Rasheed Rice, available after avoiding a suspension for a hit-and-run incident in the offseason. Additionally, Kansas City drafted speedy wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who set the record for the 40-yard dash at this year’s combine.
On defense, the Chiefs lost cornerback L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans but still boast a formidable squad. The Ravens, on the other hand, have not added much firepower, aside from resigning veteran Nelson Agholor and acquiring former Titans running back Derrick Henry. With the departure of defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, who is now head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, the Ravens’ defense remains largely unchanged.
In terms of talent, the Chiefs have the edge, especially in the passing game. Therefore, I’m predicting a Chiefs victory, 24-17. For my yard dogs, I expect Derrick Henry to exceed 65.5 rushing yards, while Xavier Worthy will surpass 45.5 receiving yards.
Friday Night Special: Packers vs. Eagles
This week, the NFL is also hosting an international game in Brazil, where the Green Bay Packers will face the Philadelphia Eagles. Players are reportedly concerned about safety in Brazil, as the NFL has issued warnings about crime rates. The Packers have recently made Jordan Love the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL after just one full season as a starter, indicating their confidence in his abilities. Alongside their young receiving corps, they added veteran running back Josh Jacobs and elite safety Xavier McKinney from the Giants.
The Eagles, on the other hand, boast a stellar roster that remains a threat this season. They recently acquired former first-round pick wide receiver Jahan Dotson from the Commanders and pass rusher Bryce Huff from the Jets. Despite the pressure on head coach Nick Sirianni, who faced criticism for last season’s collapse, I believe the Eagles will prove their superiority.
My prediction for this matchup is an Eagles win, 31-24. For my yard dogs, I expect Packers’ wide receiver Jayden Reed to exceed 43.5 receiving yards and Eagles’ star AJ Brown to surpass 71.5 receiving yards.
Steelers vs. Falcons
The Pittsburgh Steelers will travel to Atlanta to take on the Falcons in what should be an intriguing matchup. Russell Wilson has been named the starting quarterback, signaling a commitment to him over Justin Fields. The Falcons created some tension by drafting Michael Penix Jr. despite signing Kirk Cousins to a hefty contract. However, Cousins has a strong supporting cast and a solid offensive line to help him.
The Steelers didn’t make many significant moves in the offseason but retained continuity under head coach Mike Tomlin, which could be a key factor. Given Cousins’ recent injury history, I believe the Steelers’ defense will be pivotal in this game.
I’m predicting a 21-7 victory for the Steelers. For my yard dogs, I’m going with Bijan Robinson from the Falcons to exceed 25.5 receiving yards and Steelers running back Najee Harris to surpass 65.5 rushing yards.
Cardinals vs. Bills
The Arizona Cardinals will face off against the Buffalo Bills, who are navigating the absence of wide receiver Stefon Diggs. This season, the Bills aim to discover whether Diggs was a negative influence or if he actually helped quarterback Josh Allen perform at an elite level. To support Allen, the Bills selected wide receiver Keon Coleman in the first round.
On the other hand, the Cardinals added Marvin Harrison Jr., arguably the best receiver in the draft, who is currently embroiled in a legal dispute over his jersey sales. Despite this, I believe the Cardinals are an underrated team that can exploit the Bills’ secondary.
I’m predicting a surprising upset, with the Cardinals winning 28-24. For my yard dogs, I’m betting on Greg Dortch to exceed 28.5 receiving yards and tight end Dalton Kincaid to surpass 51.5 receiving yards.
Titans vs. Bears
Two young quarterbacks will meet as the Tennessee Titans take on the Chicago Bears. Caleb Williams has been turning heads in the preseason, showcasing his talent alongside DJ Moore and the former first-round pick, Romain Duzon. The Titans are looking for production from veterans DeAndre Hopkins and Calvin Ridley.
I predict that the Bears will win a high-scoring game, 35-31, with Caleb Williams securing his first victory in Chicago. For my yard dogs, I’m taking DeAndre Hopkins to exceed 49.5 receiving yards and Duzon to surpass 40.5 receiving yards.
Patriots vs. Bengals
The New England Patriots will go on the road to face the Cincinnati Bengals, with Jacobi Brissett named the starter over rookie quarterback Drake Maye. The Patriots seem intent on letting Brissett take the hits behind a weak offensive line while they protect Maye. The Bengals, meanwhile, are eager to rebound from last season’s disappointment.
With a strong roster and the advantage of home-field, I predict a Bengals victory. My yard dogs include Ja’Marr Chase to exceed 80.5 receiving yards and Rhamondre Stevenson to surpass 65.5 rushing yards.
Conclusion
As the NFL season kicks off, these predictions and analyses provide a glimpse into what fans can expect in Week 1. With intriguing matchups, new storylines, and standout players, it promises to be an exciting start to the season. Whether you’re rooting for your favorite team or just hoping for a thrilling game, the NFL is back, and it’s time to enjoy the action!
