If you're like me, you've already reviewed the full schedule and predicted a win total for your team. I have Atlanta winning the NFC South with a record of 10-7.
Of course, this prediction is premature. Back in 2015, after a 5-0 start, I was already making Super Bowl reservations. However, that year ended with a winless November, followed by consecutive losses at the beginning of December, and the season quickly unraveled. It’s important to remember that accurately predicting outcomes week to week is nearly impossible.
That said, one thing is certain: for the Falcons to return to the playoffs, they must improve on their subpar home record of 4-5 from last season. The opening test is a significant one, as they play the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 7th at 1 PM Eastern, a team that has had a hold on the divisional crown in recent years. Does anyone truly believe that Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield will throw for 4,500 yards again this season? We'll find out in the opener.
The rest of the division doesn’t concern me much. Currently, the Saints have a quarterback room featuring Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough, Jake Haener, and Hunter Dekkers. Does that intimidate you? The Panthers, in their 30-year history, have never had consecutive seasons finishing above .500 and last had a winning season in 2017. While they did play exceptionally well in a high-scoring game that required overtime last January, I'm not sold on the franchise overall.
On a more positive note, the NFL suits and TV executives have newfound confidence in Atlanta's potential, showcasing them in five prime-time games, including an international matchup in Berlin. This will be the first-ever regular season contest at the historic stadium where Jesse Owens made history during the 1936 Olympic Games.
Overall, the schedule looks favorable. I personally like having the bye week early, as it provides extended time to prepare for the Monday Night Football encounter with Josh Allen and the high-powered Bills offense. That extra week of game-planning could be crucial for achieving my projected win total. In December, there’s another extended stretch, this time lasting 10 days, before facing Kyler Murray in Glendale. Completing the season with two consecutive home games will also be beneficial for my playoff push.
More must-reads: