The NFL Spread Champ Season Preview

NFC West Edition

As we dive into our NFC West recap, we're continuing our winning momentum this preseason with an impressive 15-5-1 record. From the reigning division champions in San Francisco to the retooling Cardinals, this division is filled with storylines that could shape the 2024 season. As always, we’ve broken down the key stats, offseason moves, and what to expect from each team as we gear up for the regular season.

Arizona Cardinals 2024 Preview:

The Arizona Cardinals enter 2024 with renewed optimism as Kyler Murray returns fully healthy, ready to lead the team after a delayed start last season due to an ACL tear. Now in his second year with head coach Jonathan Gannon, Murray has a promising new target in Marvin Harrison, the fourth overall pick, to rejuvenate the offense. The Cardinals also bolstered both their offensive and defensive lines and added key players like WR Zay Jones and CB Max Melton, setting the stage for potential playoff contention.

The Cardinals' defense has been significantly upgraded with the addition of veterans like DT Justin Jones and CB Sean Murphy-Bunting, along with rookies like DE Darius Robinson. This revamped unit is expected to be more formidable, especially with returning stars like safeties Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson. Although there are still questions about the pass rush, the team is poised to improve on last season's disappointing defensive performance.

On the offensive side, Murray’s ability to connect with his new weapons, including Harrison and returning WR Michael Wilson, will be crucial. The running game, led by James Conner and rookie Trey Benson, is expected to remain strong, giving the Cardinals a balanced attack. The offensive line, strengthened by the addition of OT Jonah Williams, should provide better protection for Murray, allowing him to fully utilize his speed and agility.

Overall, the Cardinals are aiming to bounce back from last season's 4-13 record. With the improvements they've made, a 7-9 win season is within reach, and while they're not yet playoff contenders, they could surprise and make a push. The key will be how well Murray and the new additions gel as they navigate a challenging schedule. We are betting Over 6.5 wins for the Cardinals this season.

Los Angeles Rams 2024 Preview:

The Los Angeles Rams enter the 2024 season with several changes on both sides of the ball. Matthew Stafford returns to lead an offense that features a strong one-two punch in the backfield with Kyren Williams and rookie Blake Corum, alongside wideouts Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. However, the Rams face the challenge of replacing the legendary Aaron Donald, who retired, leaving a significant gap in the defense. First-round pick Jared Verse and fellow rookie Braden Fiske are expected to bolster a young and untested defensive unit.

Offensively, the Rams invested in their line to protect Stafford and open running lanes, re-signing key players and adding depth. The receiving corps remains a strength, with Nacua emerging as a top target. Defensively, the Rams are relying on a committee approach to replace Donald's impact, with new faces like Verse and Fiske stepping into key roles. Despite the changes, the Rams are expected to stay competitive, though a step back from last year is anticipated as they adjust to life without Donald.

The Rams' ability to compete for a playoff spot will largely depend on Stafford's health and the development of their young defensive talent. While they might not challenge the 49ers for the NFC West title, the Rams are still positioned to be in the mix for a postseason berth. With a revamped roster and key veterans leading the way, the Rams are gearing up for what could be a transitional but still promising season. We are confident in taking the Over 8.5 projected wins for the year.

Seattle Seahawks 2024 Preview:

The Seattle Seahawks enter 2024 with a new era of leadership under rookie head coach Mike Macdonald, following the retirement of Pete Carroll. Despite some turnover in their coaching staff and roster, the Seahawks remain focused on maintaining their competitive edge in the challenging NFC West. Quarterback Geno Smith, coming off another solid season, leads an offense that benefits from the firepower of wide receivers DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and second-year star Jaxon Smith-Njigba.

Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, known for his success at the University of Washington, brings a fresh perspective to Seattle's offensive scheme. His experience in developing potent passing attacks will be crucial as he leverages Smith's talents and a dynamic receiving corps. With improvements along the offensive line, including the addition of UConn guard Christian Haynes and veteran Nick Harris, protecting Smith and establishing a balanced attack will be key to the Seahawks' success this season.

Defensively, the Seahawks have invested heavily in their front seven, aiming to bolster a pass rush that already showed promise in 2023. The addition of first-round pick Byron Murphy II and veteran defensive lineman Leonard Williams should elevate the unit's performance. The secondary remains a strength, anchored by Devon Witherspoon, Julian Love, and Riq Woolen, who collectively form one of the most formidable defensive backfields in the league.

The NFC West remains one of the NFL's toughest divisions, but with an upgraded coaching staff and key roster improvements, the Seahawks are well-positioned to contend for a playoff spot in 2024 and we are confident in take the Over 7.5 Wins for the Season.

San Francisco 49ers 2024 Preview:

The San Francisco 49ers enter the 2024 season with high expectations after coming agonizingly close to winning the Super Bowl last year. With all 11 starters from their potent offense returning, including quarterback Brock Purdy and standout playmakers like Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle, the 49ers are primed for another deep playoff run. The team added young talent, including rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, to further bolster an already explosive unit.

Defensively, the 49ers made strategic changes, bringing in new coordinator Nick Sorensen and adding key players like Leonard Floyd and Maliek Collins to enhance their pass rush. With All-Pro talents like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner leading the way, the defense remains one of the league's most formidable. However, the departure of stalwart Arik Armstead and the need to replace his presence on the line will be a challenge.

Special teams are anchored by kicker Jake Moody, who impressed in his rookie season but will need to maintain consistency in crucial moments. The 49ers also need to find a new kick returner following the departure of Ray-Ray McCloud. Overall, the 49ers have the talent and depth to compete at the highest level, but they must avoid injuries and finish strong to finally claim their elusive Super Bowl title.

With Vegas setting the Win Line at 11.5 we are confident in taking the Under 11.5 wins

As we wrap up our coverage of the NFC West, we're ready to dive into the NFC South tomorrow before heading North and then to the NFC East. With a solid 15-5-1 record and up 7.93 units thanks to our fantastic 7-0-1 record for NFL Preseason Week 2, we're proving why our system is locked in. Don't miss out—sign up before Thursday's games to join in on the action and stay ahead with the best insights and picks in the game. The season is just heating up, and you won’t want to miss what’s coming next.