React away, everyone.
Week 1 of the NFL season is often not indicative of how the full season will play out. This fact has been evident over the years, and yet, after a seven-month wait for NFL football, fans can’t help but share their thoughts on the games — the good, the bad, the surprising, and the expected.
Here are the first in-season power rankings for 2024 (with Super Bowl odds from FanDuel Sportsbook):
NFL Power Rankings
1. Kansas City Chiefs (1-0; no change)
Super Bowl odds: +500
Winning is winning — it doesn’t matter if it’s by an inch or a mile. As the reigning champions, the Chiefs demonstrated their resilience by narrowly defeating the Ravens. Even with a dramatic finish, their revamped offense appears just as explosive as anticipated, which poses a significant challenge for their opponents.
2. San Francisco 49ers (1-0; +1)
Super Bowl odds: +550
Despite missing key players like Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams, and Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers showcased their strength by overpowering the Jets. This performance highlights that San Francisco remains a formidable force in the league.
3. Detroit Lions (1-0; -1)
Super Bowl odds: +1100
The Lions dropped a spot not due to their performance but because the 49ers were simply exceptional. A standout moment from Week 1 was Detroit’s dramatic overtime win against the Rams, showcasing their potential as a complete team. The rise of Jameson Williams could further enhance their offensive capabilities.
4. Houston Texans (1-0; +1)
Super Bowl odds: +1300
Despite the high expectations surrounding them, the Texans managed to impress in their season opener. Their ability to establish a running game, as evidenced by Joe Mixon’s strong debut, could prove pivotal for their success this season.
5. Philadelphia Eagles (1-0; -1)
Super Bowl odds: +1100
The Eagles experienced a slow start, but there were glimpses of potential in their offense under new coordinator Kellen Moore. While the defense struggled, the challenging field conditions in São Paulo may have played a role in their performance.
7. Buffalo Bills (1-0; +2)
Super Bowl odds: +1400
The Bills showcased a versatile passing game, with quarterback Josh Allen distributing the ball to nine different receivers during their victory over Arizona. His ability to score two touchdowns himself remains a valuable asset for the team.
8. Dallas Cowboys (1-0; +3)
Super Bowl odds: +1400
The Cowboys displayed a commanding performance, with their defense and special teams excelling in Cleveland. Dak Prescott made crucial plays, leading to a dominant win, which is a promising start for a team that has faced struggles on the road in the past.
9. Los Angeles Rams (0-1; +3)
Super Bowl odds: +4000
Despite a tough loss, the Rams demonstrated resilience. After struggling with offensive line injuries, they rallied with a strong second-half performance led by Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp, indicating they could be competitive throughout the season.
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-0; +1)
Super Bowl odds: +5000
While Washington may have struggled, the Buccaneers impressed by scoring on seven of eight possessions. Their balanced attack, highlighted by rookie running back Bucky Irving’s strong debut, sets the stage for an intriguing matchup against Detroit in Week 2.
11. Cincinnati Bengals (0-1; -4)
Super Bowl odds: +2000
The Bengals have struggled in season openers under head coach Zac Taylor, now holding a record of 1-5 in Week 1. Their recent loss to a Patriots team lacking star power raises concerns about their ability to start strong this season.
12. Miami Dolphins (1-0; +4)
Super Bowl odds: +2000
The Dolphins showcased remarkable resilience, turning a potential setback into a victory against the Jaguars. Their ability to recover from a 10-point deficit indicates a mental strength that could be crucial as the season progresses.
13. New York Jets (0-1; no change)
Super Bowl odds: +2200
Aaron Rodgers managed to play a full game against a top-tier team, showcasing some of his signature skills. However, the Jets’ heavy defeat to the 49ers highlighted the significant gaps they need to address moving forward.
14. Green Bay Packers (0-1; -8)
Super Bowl odds: +3500
Jordan Love’s MCL injury poses a challenge for the Packers, but his expected short recovery time offers some hope. Malik Willis will need to step up in his absence to maintain the team’s competitiveness.
15. Chicago Bears (1-0; +2)
Super Bowl odds: +5000
The Bears’ first game of the Caleb Williams Era was a reflection of past struggles, yet they managed to secure a win. Working through their challenges in a victory may serve them well as the season unfolds.
16. Cleveland Browns (0-1; -6)
Super Bowl odds: +4500
Cleveland’s defense remains strong, but concerns linger about Deshaun Watson’s performance. While they may face weaker offenses, the pressure on Watson to improve is mounting.
17. Seattle Seahawks (1-0; +2)
Super Bowl odds: +4000
New head coach Mike Macdonald celebrated his first win with a gritty performance. The Seahawks displayed a tough, physical style of play, which fans hope will continue as the season progresses.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0; +2)
Super Bowl odds: +10000
Mike Tomlin’s Steelers demonstrated a unique approach to winning, relying heavily on their defense. While scoring may be limited, this strategy could yield surprising results as the season unfolds.
19. Atlanta Falcons (0-1; -5)
Super Bowl odds: +3500
The Falcons’ decision to limit Kirk Cousins’ involvement raises questions about his recovery from injury. This lack of offensive strategy could hinder their performance moving forward.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1; -2)
Super Bowl odds: +4500
A critical fumble by Travis Etienne shifted the momentum in the game against the Dolphins. The Jaguars must improve their mental toughness to avoid similar pitfalls in future games.
21. New Orleans Saints (1-0; +7)
Super Bowl odds: +5500
The Saints’ dominant performance raises questions about their potential this season. While they faced a weaker team, their ability to pull their starters early demonstrates their growing confidence.
22. Minnesota Vikings (1-0; +1)
Super Bowl odds: +5000
Sam Darnold’s strong debut gives hope for the Vikings, but their upcoming matchup against the 49ers will be a true test of their capabilities.
23. Indianapolis Colts (0-1; -2)
Super Bowl odds: +8000
While winning is essential, Anthony Richardson’s exciting playing style will keep fans engaged. His raw talent indicates potential growth, even if mistakes are expected.
24. Arizona Cardinals (0-1; -2)
Super Bowl odds: +10000
The Cardinals’ offensive momentum was stunted by an injury to right tackle Jonah Williams. The team must focus on improving efficiency, especially with a struggling defense.
25. Los Angeles Chargers (1-0; +1)
Super Bowl odds: +5000
Jim Harbaugh’s debut with the Chargers showcased a commitment to fundamental football, setting the stage for a potential 2-0 start as they prepare to face Carolina.
26. Tennessee Titans (0-1; -2)
Super Bowl odds: +15000
The Titans showed promise early against Chicago, but a critical mistake by Will Levis cost them the game. This experience may serve as a valuable lesson for the young quarterback.
27. New England Patriots (1-0; +3)
Super Bowl odds: +30000
The Patriots secured a notable win against a strong AFC team, relying on a solid defense and effective running game. While their ceiling may be limited, they can pose challenges for their opponents.
28. Washington Commanders (0-1; -3)
Super Bowl odds: +20000
Jayden Daniels showcased his dual-threat ability, but the Commanders need more support from their offense. The defense struggled against the Buccaneers, raising concerns about their overall performance.
29. Denver Broncos (0-1; -2)
Super Bowl odds: +25000
30. Las Vegas Raiders (0-1; -1)
Super Bowl odds: +15000
The Raiders face scrutiny after their coach’s questionable decisions during the game against the Chargers. These pivotal moments could shape the team’s reputation as they move forward.
31. New York Giants (0-1; no change)
Super Bowl odds: +35000
32. Carolina Panthers (0-1; no change)
Super Bowl odds: +38000
The Panthers’ hopes for a successful season were dashed in their opening game against the Saints. A significant defeat raises doubts about their progress this offseason.
