Home NFL The Buccaneers’ NFC South Snub: Why Experts Favor the Falcons in 2024

Buccaneers' quarterback Baker Mayfield / via buccaneers.com

The Buccaneers’ NFC South Snub: Why Experts Favor the Falcons in 2024

September 5, 2024

As the 2024 NFL season approaches, the NFC South is shaping up to be a competitive division. Despite winning the NFC South title three years in a row, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are being overlooked in favor of the Atlanta Falcons, who made significant moves in the offseason.

Baker Mayfield’s Career Year and the Buccaneers’ NFC South Triumph

Baker Mayfield, the 2018 No. 1 overall pick, revived his career in 2023, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to their third consecutive NFC South title. He threw for 4,044 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions in 17 games. His performance sparked the Buccaneers to a playoff run, including a wild-card victory over Jalen Hurts and the Eagles, propelling Tampa Bay into the NFC Divisional Round.

That career year earned Mayfield a three-year, $100 million contract, affirming his value as a top-tier quarterback in the NFL. His breakout season also secured him his first-ever Pro Bowl appearance and a third-place finish in the Comeback Player of the Year voting.

The Falcons’ Biggest Offseason Acquisition: Kirk Cousins

The Atlanta Falcons made a splash in the offseason by acquiring quarterback Kirk Cousins, a proven veteran who is expected to take the team back to the playoffs for the first time since the Matt Ryan era. Cousins’ leadership and experience have set the Falcons as the favorites to win the NFC South, and his ability to elevate the team’s offense has garnered significant attention.

The Falcons’ young offensive talent, including Drake London and Kyle Pitts, should thrive. The addition of wide receivers Darnell Mooney, Rondale Moore, and Ray-Ray McCloud further strengthens the receiving corps. Running back Bijan Robinson, who is considered one of the most athletic players under 23 in the NFL, will also play a critical role in Atlanta’s offensive game plan.

Expert Predictions Favoring the Falcons

Despite the Buccaneers’ recent success, the Falcons are the odds-on favorites to win the NFC South this season. The addition of Kirk Cousins and the development of their young core have positioned Atlanta as the team to beat. Experts believe the Falcons have what it takes to reclaim dominance in the division.

While the Falcons are seen as the favorites, the Buccaneers are considered underdogs despite winning the division last year. Many believe Tampa Bay overachieved last season, but they enter 2024 with a chip on their shoulder, eager to prove the doubters wrong once again.

Tampa Bay’s Wild Card Victory Over Philadelphia

Last season, Tampa Bay shocked the NFL by not only winning the NFC South but also defeating the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card round. Jalen Hurts and the Eagles entered the postseason as one of the hottest teams, but Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers delivered a stunning victory, highlighting their resilience and ability to compete on the biggest stage.

The Buccaneers have been counted out before, and their playoff win over Philadelphia proved they can overcome adversity. With Baker Mayfield at quarterback, Tampa Bay has shown it can rise to the occasion in big moments, and they’ll look to do it again this season.

Raheem Morris and the Falcons’ New Regime

The Falcons are entering a new era under head coach Raheem Morris, who brings a fresh perspective to the franchise. His defensive expertise and experience as a head coach are expected to rejuvenate the team, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

Atlanta’s defense, already underrated, received a massive boost with the addition of former New England Patriots pass-rusher Matthew Judon. Judon, who arrived via trade, has the potential to be the final piece needed for the Falcons’ defensive resurgence. If Judon can stay healthy, he could prove to be a game-changer for Atlanta this season.

Concerns Over Atlanta’s Offseason Moves

While the Falcons landed Kirk Cousins, their free-agency period left some experts skeptical. Atlanta’s offseason lacked notable signings outside of Cousins, raising questions about the team’s depth and long-term prospects. Some fear that Atlanta’s decisions could hurt them down the road, especially if injuries pile up.

Another concern is the Falcons’ use of the eighth overall pick on quarterback Michael Penix Jr. While Penix has potential, drafting a quarterback when Cousins is expected to lead the team in the short term raised eyebrows. If Penix doesn’t pan out, this decision could haunt the Falcons for years to come.

Buccaneers Looking to Prove the Doubters Wrong

Despite Baker Mayfield’s breakout season in 2023, the Buccaneers are not seen as favorites to win the NFC South. However, Mayfield thrives in underdog situations, and his leadership will be crucial as Tampa Bay aims to repeat as division champions and go even further in the playoffs.

Tampa Bay’s defense remains a strength, with a solid front seven capable of putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The unit played a key role in last season’s success and will be a critical factor in their bid for another division title.

Panthers’ Long Shot for the Division Title

The Carolina Panthers, under second-year quarterback Bryce Young and new head coach Dave Canales, are in rebuilding mode. Young showed flashes of potential last season, and with Canales’ guidance, he could take a big step forward this year.

Despite their progress, the Panthers remain long shots to win the NFC South. Carolina’s young roster and ongoing rebuild make them the least likely team to contend for the division title, but they have the potential to surprise if things break their way.

With the NFL season kicking off, fans can enhance their game-day experience by using FanDuel Sportsbook to place bets on their favorite team. FanDuel North Carolina is the official sports betting partner of the Carolina Panthers and should see lots of action coming in on both the Bucs and Panthers.

As it stands, the Falcons are the favorites to win the NFC South at -145, but the Buccaneers and Saints remain close contenders. FanDuel has the Buccaneers at +310 while the Saints are at +490. The Panthers are longshots at +1100. With the unpredictability of the NFL, these odds could shift as the season progresses, making for an exciting division race.

As far as season win totals is concerned, FanDuel sees the Falcons’ potential and undervalues the Buccaneers a bit.