Deuce's Can't-Miss Week 1 Matchups 

August 25,, 2024

Welcome back to Deuce’s Two Cents, where I lay down the hard truths about the NFL. If you’re new here, buckle up—this isn’t your average sports rundown. We’re talking about the Week 1 matchups that have me intrigued, and trust me, there’s a lot to be curious about. No fluff, no filler, just straight-up analysis that might make you rethink your fantasy lineup.

Thursday Night: Ravens vs. Chiefs

Let’s kick things off with the first game of the season. It’s a rematch of the AFC Championship—Ravens vs. Chiefs. The Ravens’ defense is what I’m zeroing in on. They’ve lost some key players, and I’m curious if they’ve made enough adjustments to hold up against a Chiefs offense that looks locked and loaded. Mahomes and his receivers seem dialed in, and then there’s Kelce—how much are they gonna rely on him early in the season? I’m calling it now: Chiefs take this one. They’ve got too much firepower for Baltimore to handle.

Friday Night: Packers vs. Eagles

Next up, we’ve got the Packers taking on the Eagles. Jordan Love’s first big test—can he spread the ball around, or will injuries to his receivers slow him down? The Eagles’ secondary has been revamped, and I’m curious if they’ll go run-heavy or air it out. This game is gonna be a back-and-forth affair, but I’m siding with the Eagles. They’ve got the edge, especially with the depth in their receiving corps. Packers fans, sorry, but Philly’s got this one.

Sunday: Steelers vs. Falcons

Sunday brings us the Steelers vs. Falcons, a game that’s flying under the radar but has a lot to unpack. Atlanta’s defense has had some solid additions, but can they gel in time to stop the Steelers’ offense? On the flip side, how will Pittsburgh’s defense handle Atlanta’s offense, especially with London looking ready to break out? I’m going with the Steelers here. Their defense is just too solid, and I think they’ll grind out a win.

Sunday: Jaguars vs. Dolphins

Then we head down to Florida for Jaguars vs. Dolphins. The Dolphins’ defense has some question marks—did they fill those gaps well enough? We know they’re gonna throw and run the ball, but can Jacksonville’s defense, led by Josh Allen, step up? I’m a big fan of the Jags’ offense, especially with Trevor Lawrence and Christian Kirk leading the charge. I’m taking Jacksonville in this one. It’s basically a home game for them, and I think they’ll pull it off.

Sunday Night: Rams vs. Lions

Sunday night brings us Rams vs. Lions. Last year’s matchup was a thriller, and I’m expecting more of the same. The atmosphere in Detroit is gonna be electric, but I’m curious if the Lions have shored up their run game and how they’ll use their backs. Stafford is coming home, and I think the Rams will take this one. It’s gonna be close, but LA gets the win this time around.

Monday Night: 49ers vs. Jets

Finally, we wrap up with Monday Night Football—49ers vs. Jets. Rodgers is back, and the expectations are sky-high on both sides. The 49ers have some question marks, especially on the offensive line and at wide receiver, but their defense at home is a different beast. Rodgers has a decent record against San Francisco, but I think the 49ers pull this one out. It’s gonna be a tight game, maybe decided by a big play or a turnover, but I’m giving the edge to San Fran.

So there you have it—six games that’ll have fantasy implications and give us a good idea of what’s to come this season. Keep an eye on these matchups, and remember, these are just Deuce’s two cents. Feel free to agree, disagree, or just shake your head in disbelief.

Catch you next week for more sports, sarcasm, and everything in between.

Deuces out.