While it’s not the season opener, the Philadelphia Eagles vs Green Bay Packers game will still be monumental for the NFL. It will be the first NFL game on South American soil in a legendary Brazilian stadium in Sao Paulo. Despite the potential issues deliberated about leading up to the game, it’s an international opportunity for the NFL. It’s another big step in growing the league, with the Eagles and Packers as the center of it.
On the football side, it should be a very intriguing matchup. The Eagles are coming off a historic collapse in 2023. The Packers, on the other hand, surprised many people last year. Falling just short of the NFC title game in 2023, fans are expecting another big jump for the team. While it’s only week one, this game will tell a lot about both teams and what to expect from them in the coming weeks.
The Heavyweight Bout in Brazil: Eagles vs Packers
A Young Packers Offense vs. A New Eagles Defense
What all Packers fans are waiting to see is how Jordan Love can take the next step in his second year as a starter. He was awesome in the Packers’ two playoff games against the Dallas Cowboys and San Fransisco 49ers in 2023. Fans and analyst expect their offense to take another big step in their development as a group. Especially when you peek at the Packers roster, it’s hard not to get excited about what they can be. They have a great group of four receivers, a young, good offensive line, and a quarterback who received a record contract in the offseason.
The Eagles, on the other hand, are coming off a terrible season defensively. Finishing towards the bottom in most major defensive categories, the Eagles needed a reset. They not only did that with the hiring of Vic Fangio but with several new key faces on defense. However, it is a big ask for them to go against this Packers offense in week one. It’ll likely take a few weeks for this defense to get up to speed with all the new additions. It could be a struggle stopping the Packers in Brazil.
Shaping Up to be a Shootout
The Packers, like the Eagles, also brought in a new defensive coordinator in the offseason. In 2023, the Packers’ defense was ok, but that was a disappointment relative to their talent level. While it should be better in 2024, it’s another tough ask to go against such an explosive offense as the Eagles. It’s hard to see an edge for either defense to exploit in this matchup. Even if there are periods where the Eagles struggle once again with consistency, they’re too explosive altogether. Week one can be unpredictable, especially when you add the international aspect. However, on paper, this game will be a high-scoring affair on Friday night that comes down to the wire. Whoever gets the ball last will have it in their hands to win the game.
2024 Eagles vs Packers Final Predictions
Eagles Win 34-28
Take the Eagles with a slight edge over the Packers in week one. It should be a tight game, but the Eagles have just a little more firepower on offense. The Packers defense may be able to make some plays, but the Eagles weapons can score on any play at any time. Additionally, the Eagles offensive line will have a better chance of neutralizing the Packers defensive line than vice versa. Altogether, the Eagles should have a slight edge.
Other Eagles Prop Bets:
A.J. Brown any-time touchdown scorer
Devonta Smith 50+ receiving yards
Over 48.5 Total Points
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Main Image: Caean Couto – USA Today Sports
