NFL Week 1 Predictions: Thrilling Showdowns and Surprising Upsets Kick Off the 2024 Season

NFL Writers Sep 5, 2024

We here at Crier Media are very excited for the 2024 NFL season. I’m excited to break down the thrilling action from Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season. Let’s dive into each game and analyze the outcomes that set the tone for the new campaign.

Thursday Night Kickoff

The NFL season opened with a bang as the Baltimore Ravens hosted the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs. In a tightly contested battle, the Ravens emerged victorious with a 24-21 win. Lamar Jackson showcased his dual-threat abilities, throwing for 287 yards and two touchdowns while adding 62 rushing yards. The Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes put up a valiant effort, but a late interception sealed the game for Baltimore.

Friday Night Special

In a rare Friday night matchup, the Philadelphia Eagles soared past the Green Bay Packers with a convincing 31-17 victory. Jalen Hurts picked up where he left off last season, accounting for four total touchdowns. The Eagles’ defense stifled the Packers’ rushing attack, holding them to just 62 yards on the ground.

Sunday Action

Early Games

The Atlanta Falcons edged out the Pittsburgh Steelers in a defensive struggle, winning 17-14. Atlanta’s revamped offense under new coordinator showed flashes of brilliance, but it was their defense that sealed the deal with a late fourth-quarter interception.

.In a high-scoring affair, the Buffalo Bills outgunned the Arizona Cardinals 38-31. Josh Allen threw for 355 yards and four touchdowns, outdueling Kyler Murray in an aerial showcase that had fans on the edge of their seats.

The Chicago Bears surprised many by dominating the Tennessee Titans 27-10. Justin Fields looked comfortable in his third year, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another. The Bears’ defense forced three turnovers, setting the tone for what they hope will be a bounce-back season.

In Cincinnati, the Bengals started their campaign strong with a 28-13 win over the New England Patriots. Joe Burrow dissected the Patriots’ secondary, connecting with Ja’Marr Chase for two touchdowns.

The Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts battled in a divisional showdown, with Houston coming out on top 23-20. The Texans’ rookie quarterback showed poise beyond his years, leading a game-winning drive capped by a field goal as time expired

Miami’s explosive offense was on full display as they defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 34-24. Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill connected for three touchdowns, overwhelming Jacksonville’s secondary.

In a defensive masterclass, the New Orleans Saints shut down the Carolina Panthers 20-7.  The Saints’ pass rush was relentless, sacking Bryce Anderson five times and forcing two fumbles.

The Minnesota Vikings outlasted the New York Giants in a back-and-forth contest, winning 27-24 on a last-second field goal. Justin Jefferson continued his dominance, racking up 142 receiving yards and a touchdown

Late Afternoon Games

The Los Angeles Chargers held off a late surge from the Las Vegas Raiders to win 31-28. Justin Herbert threw for 329 yards and three touchdowns

Seattle’s 12th man was in full force as the Seahawks defeated the Denver Broncos 24-17. Geno Smith proved last year was no fluke, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another

In Cleveland, the Browns’ defense stifled the Dallas Cowboys in a 21-14 victory. Myles Garrett was unstoppable, recording three sacks and forcing a fumble that was returned for a touchdown.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeat the Washington Commanders 27-20. Baker Mayfield looked rejuvenated, throwing for 278 yards and two touchdowns in his Bucs debut.

Sunday Night Football

In a primetime showdown, the Detroit Lions roared past the Los Angeles Rams 31-24. Jared Goff got his revenge against his former team, throwing for three touchdowns and 315 yards. The Lions’ defense came up big in the fourth quarter, forcing two crucial turnovers to seal the win.

Monday Night Football

The week concluded with the San Francisco 49ers dominating the New York Jets 34-14. Brock Purdy silenced any doubters, throwing for 287 yards and three touchdowns. The 49ers’ defense suffocated the Jets’ offense, holding them to just 198 total yards.

Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season certainly lived up to the hype, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting year of football. Stay tuned for more in-depth analysis and coverage as we dive deeper into these thrilling matchups.

NFL Writers

Crier Media is home to a dynamic group of NFL writers who bring diverse perspectives and in-depth analysis to the world of football.

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