NFL - Week 1

Baltimore Ravens @ Kansas City Chiefs 

The 2024 NFL season kicks off with a thrilling Thursday night matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs, two AFC powerhouses eyeing deep playoff runs. With Lamar Jackson paired with new acquisition Derrick Henry, Baltimore’s offense looks more balanced, while the Chiefs continue to ride the brilliance of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Expect a tight, low-scoring game, with the Chiefs slight 3.5-point favourites, but the Ravens’ revamped offense could keep it close. Betting on the under (46.0) looks like the smart play here, and Derrick Henry or Rashee Rice as anytime touchdown scorers offer value elsewhere. This looks like a real gritty showdown to start the season! 

Prediction: Under 46.0 @ 1.88 

Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles

Jordan Love aims to kickstart the Packers' season with a win over the Eagles after signing a long-term deal and bolstering his offence with new talent. Despite losing Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, the Packers have added running back Josh Jacobs, who could be an upgrade. Love finished last season strong, throwing for over 4,100 yards and 32 touchdowns. His young receiving corps, including Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, have shown promise and new defensive addition Xavier McKinney shores up the backfield. Last season the Eagles faltered late and exited early in the playoffs despite a strong 10-1 start. With key additions like Saquon Barkley on offence and a revamped defence under new coordinator Vic Fangio, they aim for redemption. However, Philadelphia's defence remains questionable, and the Packers have a history of surprising as underdogs. Expect a close contest, but backing the Packers to cover the spread seems wise. 

Prediction: Green Bay Packers +2.5 @ 1.97 

Los Angeles Rams @ Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions are set to kick off the 2024 season with a high-stakes rematch against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday night, following their thrilling 24-23 wild-card win in January, their first playoff victory in 40 years. As they prepare to face Matthew Stafford—once their star quarterback, now an opponent—the Lions are determined to build on last year’s success under head coach Dan Campbell. Stafford, who passed for 367 yards and two touchdowns against Detroit in that playoff game, will be a major focus for the Lions' defence. With Aaron Donald retired, the Rams’ defence looks less intimidating, giving Detroit a potential advantage. Expect Matthew Stafford to have a solid game, but the Lions' familiarity with their former quarterback and the energy of a home crowd gives them the edge. We're happy to take them on the spread. 

Prediction: Detroit Lions -3.5 @ 1.95