As we kick off the 2024 NFL season, we're all eager to see which teams will rise to the top and make a serious run for Super Bowl LIX. Of course, this might seem early, but with new squads, anything is possible. With Week 1 just days away, it's time to take a closer look at some of the teams that are favored by the oddsmakers. From reigning champions to perennial contenders and even some newcomers to the discussion, these teams have generated a lot of buzz.
Odds to Win Super Bowl: +575
Odds to Win Conference: +350
The Kansas City Chiefs are once again sitting at the top of the odds board with +575. That should come as no surprise, given their consistent dominance over the past several seasons.
With Patrick Mahomes leading the charge, the Chiefs have been an offensive powerhouse. The addition of speed at the WR position only bolsters their chances.
Rookie Xavier Worthy has already made waves in the preseason. He showcases the kind of explosiveness that makes the Chiefs’ offense even scarier than ever. His ability to stretch the field will undoubtedly open up opportunities for other key players like Travis Kelce and Rashee Rice. Even with Marquise Brown temporarily sidelined, Kansas City’s receiving corps looks dominant.
However, bettors should keep an eye on the Chiefs' defense as the season begins. While the offense looks ready to put up big numbers, the defense has some question marks. Key players missed significant time in training camp due to injuries, and their readiness could be a concern in the early weeks.
Odds to Win Super Bowl: +625
Odds to Win Conference: +300
The San Francisco 49ers are hot on the Chiefs’ heels with odds of +625. The 49ers boast one of the most complete rosters in the league, and their defense, led by stars like Nick Bosa, is expected to be a nightmare for every other team in the league. The return of a healthy Brock Purdy at quarterback adds a bit more stability to an offense that was already the league's best in 2023.
However, San Francisco's biggest challenge might be its own depth. Injuries during the preseason have exposed some weaknesses, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines. This could be a potential issue as the season progresses, especially in a league where injuries are often the great equalizer.
Their odds reflect the potential for a deep playoff run, but they also come with a bit more risk than the Chiefs. If San Francisco can stay healthy, they have all the tools to win it all, and a +625 could be a decent payday. But if injuries strike key positions, their chances could quickly diminish.
Odds to Win Super Bowl: +1100
Odds to Win Conference: +550
The Baltimore Ravens are sitting at +1100, and for those who like to bet on teams that play old-school, smash-mouth football, this might just be your team. The Ravens have been the best rushing team in the NFL over the past five years, and the addition of Derrick Henry only gives bolsters the ground game. Pairing Henry with a slimmed-down Lamar Jackson could create one of the most dangerous backfields in recent memory.
But it’s not all sunshine in Baltimore. The departure of Jadeveon Clowney leaves the Ravens' pass rush in a tight spot. While the defense was solid last season, more so in the secondary, their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks consistently might take a hit. If they’re going to go deep in the playoffs, the Ravens will want a more well-rounded team.
Betting on the Ravens at +1100 could be a savvy move if you believe in their ground-and-pound approach. If Jackson and Henry can stay healthy and dominate the time of possession, Baltimore could have a tough outcome at playoff time. We recommend giving them a few weeks to see how the team shakes out before placing a futures bet on them.
Odds to Win Super Bowl: +1200
Odds to Win Conference: +550
The Detroit Lions might not have been a team you’d expect to see on a list of Super Bowl contenders in recent years, but here they are with +1200 odds. After an impressive 2023 season that saw them win the NFC North for the first time since 1993, the Lions have captured the attention of the oddsmakers.
Detroit’s offense, led by veteran quarterback Jared Goff, is no doubt its biggest strength. The Lions return most of their key offensive players, including star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and offensive tackle Penei Sewell. This continuity, combined with the retention of both offensive and defensive coordinators, gives the Lions a pretty decent foundation upon which to build.
The biggest question mark we see for the Lions is their defense. Despite some off-season upgrades, the unit struggled last year and will need to make significant improvements if Detroit is going to take the next step toward Super Bowl LIX. If their young cornerbacks can make an immediate impact, the Lions could be in business.
At +1200, the Lions are an exciting bet. They’re a bit of a dark horse, but with the right breaks, Detroit could be a team that surprises a lot of people this season — including us.
Odds to Win Super Bowl: +575
Odds to Win Conference: +350
The Philadelphia Eagles round out our top 5 list with +1400 odds. After a 10-1 start last season, the Eagles fell apart down the stretch, leading to massive changes in the coaching staff. Jalen Hurts is back at quarterback, and he has a wealth of weapons at his disposal. We’re pretty excited about Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith.
On paper, the Eagles have one of the most talented rosters in the NFL. However, we still have questions about their ability to put it all together. The addition of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator and Vic Fangio as defensive coordinator could be what the Eagles need to get over the hump, but we’ll reserve our thoughts until we’re a few weeks into the season.
If you're looking for a decent value bet, the Eagles at +1400 could be a steal. They have the talent to compete with anyone, but there are legitimate concerns about their ability to maintain consistency throughout the season.
As we head into Week 1 of the NFL season, the betting odds give us a good sense of which teams are expected to contend for the Super Bowl. The Chiefs and 49ers are the safe bets. Each has proven track records and rosters loaded with talent. The Ravens, Lions, and Eagles offer more upside to your bets but also come with quite a bit more risk.
We’re not even through week 1 yet, so nothing could surprise us at this point. We’re just ready for the big kick off and ready to start placing some props and live bets.