The NFC South is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing divisions in the NFL for the 2024-25 season. With significant roster changes, especially the Atlanta Falcons’ acquisition of QB Kirk Cousins, the dynamics have shifted dramatically.
NFC South Standings [2023]
| NFC | SOUTH | W | L | T |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Bucs | 9 | 8 | 0 |
 | Saints | 9 | 8 | 0 |
 | Falcons | 7 | 10 | 0 |
 | Panthers | 2 | 15 | 0 |
ATLANTA FALCONS (-130)
The Falcons made headlines by signing free agent QB Kirk Cousins, instantly becoming favorites in the NFC South. Cousins, recovering from a torn Achilles, is expected to lead the team by the start of the season. If he is not ready, first-round pick Michael Penix Jr. is anticipated to step up.
Atlanta’s draft strategy was heavily scrutinized when they chose Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick, bypassing several defensive talents. In addition to their quarterback acquisitions, the Falcons bolstered their roster by trading for WR Darnell Mooney and signing veteran cornerbacks Kevin King and Antonio Hamilton.
A significant change in Atlanta’s leadership saw Arthur Smith replaced by Raheem Morris as head coach. This shift aims to maximize the team’s potential and leverage the new quarterback additions to secure a division title.
Odds to Win NFC South (as of 8/5/24):
Atlanta Falcons -130
Tampa Bay Buccaneers +320
New Orleans Saints +390
Carolina Panthers +900
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (+320)
The Buccaneers clinched the NFC South title last year with a late-season surge, going 4-1 in their last five games. Despite this success, they enter the new season with +320 odds to repeat as division champions.
Tampa Bay faced notable losses with the retirement of Pro Bowl center Ryan Jensen and the departure of defensive leaders like Shaq Barrett and Devin White. The Buccaneers used their first-round pick to draft center Graham Barton, addressing some of their key losses.
The Buccaneers’ free agency period was primarily focused on retaining their star players, including QB Baker Mayfield and WR Mike Evans. Despite Mayfield’s solid performance last season, his career inconsistency raises questions about the team’s ability to maintain their winning momentum.
Week 1 NFL Lines, Free Picks and Futures
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (+390)
The Saints finished last season with a 9-8 record, identical to the Buccaneers, but missed the playoffs due to a weaker conference record. This season, they are listed at +390 to win the division.
New Orleans made a significant signing by acquiring pass rusher Chase Young. However, they also lost key players like QB Jameis Winston, WR Michael Thomas, and OL Andrus Peat. These departures pose challenges for the team’s consistency.
Due to ongoing salary cap issues, the Saints relied heavily on their draft picks. Rookies OT Taliese Fuaga, CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, and QB Spencer Rattler are expected to play vital roles. Despite these additions, the team may struggle to deliver consistent performances.
Season Win Totals (as of 8/5/24):
Atlanta Falcons 9.5 o -150
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7.5 o -160
New Orleans Saints 7.5 o -130
Carolina Panthers 5.5 o -160
CAROLINA PANTHERS (+900)
The Panthers had the worst record in the NFL last season at 2-15, resulting in +900 odds for the upcoming season. Despite their struggles, they did not benefit from the first overall pick, having traded it to Chicago for QB Bryce Young.
Carolina drafted RB Jonathan Brooks and traded for WR Diontae Johnson to support Young. However, Brooks is recovering from a torn ACL, and Johnson has been underwhelming as a WR1, indicating potential ongoing offensive challenges.
The Panthers lost key veterans like TE Hayden Hurst and CB C.J. Henderson and traded away LB Brian Burns. New Head Coach Dave Canales faces a significant rebuilding challenge with the current roster.
North Carolina Sports Betting Apps will come in handy this year as the Panthers have done a good job of adding some offensive weapons for their sophomore-year QB Bryce Young to target.
NFC South Predictions and Best Bets
The Falcons are the clear favorites to win the NFC South this year with -135 odds. Their quarterback situation, bolstered by Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr., should provide stability and elevate their offensive play.
Despite their impressive end to last season, the Buccaneers are not favored to repeat as division champions. Key departures and inconsistency at the quarterback position may hinder their chances.
The Saints face a tough road with significant roster changes and salary cap constraints. While they have potential with their draft picks, maintaining consistent performance throughout the season will be challenging.
The Panthers are seen as the long shots for the division title. While Bryce Young shows promise, the team’s overall talent deficiencies and rebuilding phase under new coaching make their prospects bleak.
Final Thoughts
The NFC South is poised for an exciting season with the Falcons leading the charge. The additions of Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix Jr. provide a strong foundation for Atlanta, making them the team to beat. The Buccaneers, Saints, and Panthers all have potential to challenge, but each faces significant hurdles. As the season unfolds, the dynamics of the division will be a focal point for NFL fans and bettors alike.
