Everything You Should Know About Betting On The First Week Of The 2024 NFL Season

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The first week of the 2024 NFL season is set to deliver some exciting matchups, and for those looking to place bets, understanding the schedule and odds is crucial. Week 1 often brings unpredictability, making it an ideal time to capitalize on value bets if you’re well-prepared. Below, we'll dive into the key games and what you need to know to make informed decisions.

Baltimore Ravens @ Kansas City Chiefs

The 2024 NFL season kicks off with a high-stakes matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs on Friday, September 6, 2024. Set at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, this game is not only the season opener but also a clash between two powerhouse teams. The Chiefs are favored by 3 points, with an over/under of 46.5, reflecting the anticipated high-scoring nature of the game.

When considering a bet on this game, keep in mind that Kansas City’s home-field advantage is significant, particularly in prime time. Patrick Mahomes typically shines under the lights, making the Chiefs a strong pick against the spread. However, the Ravens, led by Lamar Jackson, are known for their explosive plays, which could make this a closer contest than the odds suggest. If you’re leaning towards an upset, Baltimore at +3 might offer some value, especially if you believe their defense can contain Mahomes.

Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles

On Saturday, September 7, 2024, the Green Bay Packers head to São Paulo, Brazil, to face the Philadelphia Eagles in an international showdown at Corinthians Arena. The Eagles are slight favorites with a 3-point spread, and the over/under is set at 48.5, indicating a game that could see plenty of scoring.

Betting on this game requires careful consideration of both teams' travel and adaptation to a neutral site. The Eagles, favored by the spread, have a slight edge due to their consistency and balanced offense. However, Green Bay’s resilience, particularly in unusual settings like this, could make them a compelling underdog. If you believe the Packers’ defense can step up, betting on them to cover the spread might be worth considering.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Atlanta Falcons

Sunday, September 8, 2024, features several games, starting with the Pittsburgh Steelers visiting the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Falcons are 3-point favorites, and the over/under is 40.5, suggesting a moderately low-scoring affair.

This game is intriguing for bettors who enjoy betting on underdogs. The Steelers, known for their strong defense, could easily cover the spread, especially if Atlanta struggles to move the ball. Conversely, if you believe in the Falcons’ ability to exploit Pittsburgh’s secondary, Atlanta might be a safer bet to cover the 3-point spread. Given the relatively low over/under, betting on the total score might also present an opportunity, especially if you expect a defensive battle.

Dallas Cowboys @ Cleveland Browns

Later on Sunday, the Dallas Cowboys travel to Cleveland to face the Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The Browns are 2.5-point favorites, with an over/under of 42.5, indicating a game that could go either way. When analyzing the NFL Vegas line for this matchup, it's clear that the odds are tight, reflecting the evenly matched nature of these two teams.

For those looking to bet on this game, consider the Browns’ recent performance trends and home-field advantage. If Cleveland’s defense can hold up against Dallas’ potent offense, the Browns could cover the spread. However, if you expect a high-scoring affair, betting the over might be more appealing. The 2.5-point spread is close, so even a minor slip by the Browns could lead to the Cowboys covering.

Arizona Cardinals @ Buffalo Bills

Also on Sunday, the Arizona Cardinals take on the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. The Bills are 6-point favorites, with an over/under of 48.5, indicating a game where Buffalo is expected to dominate.

Betting on this game largely hinges on your confidence in Buffalo’s high-powered offense versus Arizona’s ability to keep up. The Bills are likely to cover the spread if they can establish their passing game early. However, if you believe the Cardinals can exploit any defensive weaknesses or if Buffalo starts slow, taking Arizona at +6 might be the smarter play. The over/under also offers potential, especially if both teams start trading touchdowns.

Conclusion

Betting on the first week of the 2024 NFL season offers plenty of opportunities, but it’s essential to approach each game with a clear strategy. Whether you’re focusing on spreads, money lines, or over/under totals, understanding the nuances of each matchup will help you make informed bets. With the season just beginning, Week 1 is a prime time to find value in the betting markets, so study the odds, analyze the matchups, and place your bets wisely.