The schedule for the 2024 NFL season is known. If each meeting is an event with only 17 matches per team, some confrontations seem more interesting than others. Here are ten unmissable matches, listed in chronological order!
Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions – Week 1
The lions are no longer the “Poulidor” (magnificent loser) of the NFL. Finally, they won matches under the leadership of manager Brad Holmes and charismatic coach Dan Campbell. On offense Jared Goff is precise: on January 15, 2024, he demonstrated it again by completing 22 passes out of 27 attempted for a playoff victory against his former franchise the Rams.
But Detroit's defense will have to be up to par because the attack of offensive guru Sean McVay has what it takes to hypnotize any opponent. Especially since playing in Detroit stadium is familiar for quarterback Matthew Stafford (12 seasons with the Lions). In addition, he will be able to use his arm to punish his former love with Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp.
Orphaned by Aaron Donald, the Los Angeles defense has been counting on its young talents drafted for two years. Will this be enough?
Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns – Week 1
Confrontation between what are, without doubt, the two most divisive franchises in the NFL.
On the one hand Dallas, as much loved by a huge contingent of supporters as hated by fans of other franchises. On the other, the Cleveland Browns, whose friendly image took a hit with the recruitment of the talented but controversial Deshaun Watson, and his off-field setbacks.
But in addition to this particular context, it is above all a meeting between two teams having all the weapons to go far in 2024. That day it will be no less than Micah Parsons, Myles Garrett, CeeDee Lamb, Denzel Ward, Nick Chubb and…Ezekiel Elliott, who will perform on the Arlington All-Star Track.
The distance duel between quarterbacks Dak Prescott and Deshaun Watson adding the icing on the cake.
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets – Week 6
With Aaron Rodgers back, the little green men of New York have all the makings of a tough team! An experienced and talented quarterback, a reinforced offensive line, two well-stocked squads of receivers and runners and a very good defense (2nd defense against the pass in 2023).
However, it is the Bills who are the favorites in the AFC East division. Josh Allen has the profile of a Super Bowl MVP and Buffalo's intelligent staff knows how to surround him with effective players and schemes.
The season or never for the Jets?
Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos – Week 6
Year 1 of coach Jim Harbaugh. Who doesn't want to see that? His success in the NFL with San Francisco (2011-2014) and in the NCAA with the University of Michigan are a guarantee of quality. As is quarterback Justin Herbert. If the Chargers will face even more formidable opponents, Baltimore and Kansas City for example, the double confrontation with the Broncos is exciting!
Coach Sean Payton proved his worth in New Orleans but his first season in Denver was mediocre! In 2024, he was able to choose his quarterback to liven up his plans: exit Russell Wilson and welcome beginner Bo Nix. Precise as a heart surgeon, the rookie from the University of Oregon offers the ideal profile of game manager : the quarterback who executes the playbook perfectly.
Who in the AFC West will be able to compete with the ogre of Kansas City and its 8 division titles in a row?
Kansas City Chiefs at San Francisco 49ers – Week 7
The last two finalists face each other and San Francisco hopes to get revenge after its Super Bowl defeat. If the matches had been ranked in order of interest, he would obviously be number 1!
Seeing the offensive science of quarterback Patrick Mahomes against the formidable 49ers defense is worth its weight in gold! On the other side of the ball, the creative attack of coach Kyle Shanahan has what it takes to disrupt the Chiefs' efficient defense: 2nd NFL defense in points conceded during the 2023 season.
This new opus of “Godzilla vs. King Kong” should be the most thrilling.
Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears – Week 11
The Bears are starting a new cycle in 2024. Caleb Williams is a creative player and he will be able to develop his talent with quality equipment with Keenan Allen but also DJ Moore and Rome Odunze among receivers. Cole Kmet and Gerald Everett for the tight ends as well as a complementary trio of runners: D'Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson.
This seems enough to straighten out their win/loss record: 16-35 over the last three seasons! But will it be enough to win the division?
In the NFC North, the Detroit Lions are favorites with the Wisconsin franchise as the most serious contender. Quarterback Jordan Love gave Packers fans a lot of hope in 2023 with more than 4,000 yards and 32 touchdowns. This match will be a test for both teams.
Philadelphia Eagles at Baltimore Ravens – Week 13
After the last two finalists, Philadelphia and Baltimore are the other two favorites in their respective conferences.
The Ravens running game led by quarterback Lamar Jackson and runner Derrick Henry against the front 7 (defensive line + linebackers) of the Eagles! On the other side of the ball, Baltimore has rejuvenated its back line and will have a hard time facing receivers AJ Brown and Devonta Smith.
This clash of contenders will inevitably have an impact on the title race in 2024.
Atlanta Falcons at Minnesota Vikings – Week 14
Just after leaving Minnesota to join Atlanta, quarterback Kirk Cousins will return to the land that revealed him. Will he be able to make young talents Drake London and Kyle Pitts shine? Runner Bijan Robinson does not seem to need anyone and should be formidable for his second season.
Opposite, the specialist quarterbacks coach Kevin O'Connell will have to settle for Sam Darnold! Unless the very young JJ McCarthy establishes himself more quickly than expected? The Vikings' youth will have to be quickly operational, like Dallas Turner (1st round pick of the draft) having to replace Danielle Hunter and her 16.5 sacks in 2023.
Captain Kirk the return ! Who doesn't want to see that?
Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans – Week 15
Who a year ago expected a 10-win season for Houston? Led by young quarterback CJ Stroud, the Texans' offense should be even more lethal with the signing of receiver Stefon Diggs. The Texan franchise also has arguments in defense and that will be necessary against the explosive attack of the Floridians.
Speed, more speed, more speed! In 2023, no quarterback in the NFL has on average thrown the ball faster than Tua Tagovailoa: 2.36 seconds. If the experienced Odell Beckham has necessarily aged, his addition to a squad of receivers including Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle gives chills to opposing defensive coordinators.
Are the Dolphins still above emerging Texans?
Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers – Week 18
Joe's return from injury cool Burrow excites Bengals fans. Especially since the leaders had the good idea to better surround him! The offensive line was strengthened and a tight end specialized in receptions arrived: Mike Gesicki. However, the defense will have to perform better than in 2023 (penultimate NFL in yards conceded). Especially to face a Steelers attack in full revival.
Whoever wins the duel between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, it marks a notable progression at the most important position on the field. And behind an offensive line, certainly young but full of talent, the new quarterback should have time to lead an effective offensive game. Especially since Pittsburgh's defense will allow the thrower to often recover possession in a good starting position.
Who will win the most competitive division in the NFL? Take your bets.
