So the door has closed for the final time on the 2024 NFL season, and it did so with quite a thud. The Philadelphia Eagles headed to New Orleans to contest Super Bowl LIX against the reigning back-to-back champion Kansas City Chiefs as narrow underdogs. With their opponents standing on the brink of a historic three-peat, many thought the brilliant Patrick Mahomes would upstage Philly counterpart Jalen Hurts and power his way into the history books.
What transpired, however, was a mauling that even the most ardent Eagles fan couldn't have imagined in their wildest dreams. Their bone-crushing defense hurt Mahomes early and throughout, sacking the all-time great quarterback six times and forcing two interceptions. Then, with the ball in hand, Hurts took over.
The 26-year-old completed 11 of his 22 passing attempts for 221 yards and two touchdowns. He then amassed 72 yards and a 'Tush Push' touchdown on the ground, taking the game away from the favored Chiefs. The contest eventually finished 40-22, with even that scoreline flattering KC, such was Philadelphia's dominance.
Now, though, attention turns to the future. The bookies have already published their odds of who they feel will lift the Lombardi next February, but which of their unfancied teams could upset the apple cart?
Dallas Cowboys
For a franchise dubbed “America’s Team,” the Cowboys often wear the weight of sky-high expectations. But heading into 2025, many analysts are lukewarm on their potential. Much of their dismay stems from a dismal 2024 campaign in which the Lone Star state outfit lost ten of their 17 games; Blowout losses against the Eagles (twice), Texans, Lions, and Saints saw Dallas ship a whopping 468 points, the second most in the entire league behind only the Carolina Panthers.
Still, call it a hunch, but the Cowboys could make a run to silence critics.
Why? It begins with quarterback Dak Prescott. The former Mississippi State standout missed the latter half of last season, and his absence coincided with the team's downfall. At his best, he’s a magician under center, capable of dissecting defenses at will. However, inconsistency and interceptions have been known to plague him, while now he has the small matter of recovering from a hamstring tear.
Once he returns to full fitness, you can expect Prescott to recalibrate under a revamped offensive philosophy. New offensive coordinator hires focused on simplifying the playbook and maximizing Dak's mobility could be game-changing. Pair that with their young stud CeeDee Lamb's ascension into a bonafide top-five wide receiver, and you have a formula for fireworks.
Despite those positives, online NFL oddsmakers are still unconvinced. With the memory of last season firmly in mind, the latest NFL odds for next season make the Cowboys a lengthy +3300 outsider for the Lombardi, behind the likes of the Denver Broncos and the Houston Texans. But if Prescott makes a full return and hits form near his best, those odds could shorten.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins enter 2025, shaded by skepticism. Injuries, offensive struggles, and defensive inconsistency defined 2024, leaving fans wondering if this roster can genuinely contend. However, don't go writing off Miami just yet.
The key? Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. When he’s healthy, Tua is electric—a quick-thinking, accurate passer who can easily exploit defenses. The 26-year-old was the passing leader in 2023, displaying how good he can be when fully fit. Last year, injuries reared their head once again, but he still managed to rack up 2,867 yards in just 11 games.
The upcoming offseason has to be dedicated to bolstering their offensive line. If Tua gets the desired protection, he will find more time to connect with speed demons like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, arguably one of the best-receiving corps in the entire league.
On the other side of the ball, Vic Fangio’s defense is no longer in a transition period. Some players are familiar with his schemes after two seasons' worth of reps. If the defensive front consistently pressures expect turnovers—and lots of them. Combine that with head coach Mike McDaniel in his groove, and the Dolphins could be one of the NFL’s dark horses in 2025.
Chicago Bears
Chicago’s football history is steeped in tradition, yet recent seasons have been anything but memorable. After another rebuilding year in 2024, expectations for the Bears remain modest. However, beneath the rubble of mediocrity lies a team ready to surprise.
It starts with quarterback Caleb Williams. The former USC standout was selected first overall in last year's draft, but he was overshadowed by the brilliant Jayden Daniels, who was selected second overall by the Washington Commanders. While he was leading the capital city side to the NFC Championship game, Williams and the Chicago Bears were licking their wounds after a dismal 5-12 season, the second worst in the conference.
However, the former USC man showed signs of improvement throughout the second half of the campaign. He has already shown he can take over games, but his development in the pocket could take this team to the next level. Defense isn't an issue in Chicago, with the D-Line winning them games on occasion last term.
Now, all attention should be on the offense, the development of their quarterback, and finding him adequate protection. If they do that, they could, too, finally return to the playoffs after one of the longest droughts in the league.
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