The 2023 NFL season is within the books, because the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers in time beyond regulation of Super Bowl LVIII, 25-22. Choosing Super Bowl sleepers final 12 months was a idiot’s errand, as Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce as soon as once more fought for his or her place on the massive stage, and got here out on high. Nonetheless, the NFL is stuffed with surprises. Something can occur subsequent 12 months.
Let’s check out the percentages for Super Bowl LIX, after which break down 5 worth picks that may very well be price placing some cash on proper now.
Tremendous Bowl odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Houston Texans (+2200)
In relation to Tremendous Bowl sleepers, financially attaching your self to a younger star quarterback is a good suggestion. I am not saying C.J. Stroud is Mahomes, however he had a historic rookie season whereas Houston received the division, made the playoffs and received a playoff recreation regardless of being anticipated to be one of many worst groups within the league. First-year head coach DeMeco Ryans deserves respect too, as he turned the protection round instantly. Houston allowed the sixth-fewest speeding yards per recreation in 2023 after the Texans ranked lifeless final in that class in 2022.
Not way back, the AFC South was seen as one of many worst divisions within the NFL. Now, it is some of the intriguing.
New York Jets (+2500)
In all probability a polarizing choose right here. The Jets virtually seem cursed after Aaron Rodgers was injured only a few performs into Week 1, and I do not know the way a lot confidence I’ve in Robert Saleh, nevertheless it’s completely unbelievable that this Jets protection completed high three regardless of having zero offense. Think about if that they had a mean offense to assist out. I really like this Jets protection and they’re completely able to contend.
As for the offense, perhaps Nathaniel Hackett’s system would not encourage optimism, however this offense is constructed for Rodgers. No matter you consider Rodgers, the underside line is that he thrives off doubt. When Jordan Love was drafted by the Packers within the first spherical, Rodgers responded by profitable two straight MVPs! Now, he is switched groups and is coming off of a torn Achilles at 40 years outdated. Loads of folks might be able to depend him out, which is why it is a stable thought to again him. The offensive line must be revamped, however Breece Corridor and Garrett Wilson are studs. The Jets will once more be a serious headline — for higher or for worse — in 2024.
Atlanta Falcons (+3000)
Let’s get just a little wild. I believed Atlanta ought to have focused an offensive-minded head coach, however Raheem Morris is somebody who actually connects together with his gamers, and I’ve little doubt that this protection goes to be stable after a pleasant turnaround in 2023. There’s the query of quarterback (perhaps Justin Fields leads to Atlanta), however the Falcons have loads of gifted gamers able to be actually unlocked, resembling Bijan Robinson, Kyle PItts and Drake London. New offensive coordinator Zac Robinson goes to have an opportunity to actually shine.
The NFC South will be the worst division within the NFL, which helps Atlanta’s case. The Falcons additionally reside within the NFC, which may be useful. The quarterback is the most important lacking piece, but when they discover a strategy to hit on one, perhaps the Falcons are a Tremendous Bowl sleeper.
Los Angeles Rams (+3500)
The Rams rebounded to go 7-1 of their final eight regular-season video games after beginning the 12 months 3-6. Whereas they fell to the Lions in Tremendous Wild Card Weekend, they nonetheless had a powerful season. Matthew Stafford confirmed he is nonetheless probably the greatest quarterbacks within the league, after which we have been launched to Kyren Williams and Puka Nacua as two of the most effective gamers at their positions.
When the Rams had Stafford, Williams, Nacua and Cooper Kupp on the sphere this season, they went 6-2 whereas averaging 28.5 factors per recreation, 398.9 yards per recreation and 6.8 yards per play. They have been a powerful offensive assault. There’s room to get higher on protection, however that they had three totally different gamers report eight sacks, which was tied for second-most within the NFL. There’s younger expertise on that aspect of the ball, and the entrance workplace can clearly draft.
Indianapolis Colts (+4500)
Sure, we have already got an AFC South workforce listed above, however as we talked about, the AFC South is without doubt one of the most intriguing divisions. Talking of intriguing, that is what Anthony Richardson is. He wants to remain wholesome, however has a cannon for an arm and might run the rock. What’s nice is that he is paired up with Jonathan Taylor and Shane Steichen — who is aware of the right way to scheme for the run.
Defensively, enchancment is required, however the Colts have been fifth in sacks final season (51), and had 4 totally different gamers report not less than eight QB takedowns. By the way in which, all 4 are beneath contract for subsequent season (Samson Ebukam, Kwity Paye, DeForest Buckner and Dayo Odeyingbo). Sure, I just like the Texans higher, however I’ve an eye fixed on the Colts too.
