September 10th, 2024
The NFC West is one of the most competitive divisions, and this can make it hard to predict. Yet this year, the race seems tighter than ever. Most eyes will be on the 49ers and Rams, who have butted heads on many occasions before. With the 49ers heading into a possible third consecutive winning season, it pays to keep your eyes on the game.
49ers
In the past five years, the 49ers have wracked up an impressive record. They have managed to make it to the Superbowl twice, but have been beaten both times by the Chiefs. This places a huge psychological barrier on the team.
For many, the 49ers winning the division seems a forgone conclusion. They have won it twice in a row and scooped it three times in the last five seasons, with no signs of a weaker squad this year. They have also won 11 of their last 12 NFC West games. Currently, sportsbooks have them at -190 in live score betting. However, if they take their eye off the ball looking for bigger prizes outside the league, it could be their undoing.
Rams The Los Angeles Rams are the teams most likely to topple the 49ers stranglehold on the NFC West Division. They're currently around +375 to win. They were the last team to beat them in one of the division's games, showing they do have the tenacity to snap the streak. The team is also looking very strong, with key players like Matthew Stafford fighting fit.
However, they do have to overcome some psychological barriers. They lost the season tiebreaker to the 49ers last season due to their overall record.
Seahawks
Of all the teams, the Seattle Seahawks could throw up the most surprises this season. New coach Mike Mcdonald has shown his prowess with a win in his debut, partly down to a solid defense. This was backed up by a 17-point surge in the second half.
Geno Smith was also credited for this. The star Quarterback executed the plan perfectly, delivering on time. He has made 18-17 over the last three seasons in 35 starts. Last season, they finished 2-4 in the division and their only wins were over the Cardinals. With this streak behind them and a new coach putting wind in their sales, they have nothing to lose by taking on the big boys.
Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals are currently +1300 to win the season. How they will fare is very hard to predict. They have starting quarterback Kyler Murray returning after a long injury stint. His torn ACL meant he missed a host of games last season, which were crucial to the Arizona Cardinals. However, his absence showed a lack of depth in the team which does not seem to have been rectified.
It was 2015 since they last won the division and they need to perform this season, purely because it would add a little spice and drama to the division. Last season they had losses to all the other teams and need to bounce back.
Schedules and Upcoming Matches
If you are placing a bet on the division, then keeping track of schedules and upcoming matches is vital for any serious bettor. Knowing when and where games are played can affect team performance due to factors like travel fatigue or home-field advantage. Additionally, understanding the schedule within each division helps in identifying key matchups that could influence playoff standings. By staying informed about schedules, you ensure that your betting decisions are based on comprehensive information.
The 49ers are clear favorites, but that does not mean they're certain to win. A few upsets from less fancied teams like the Cardinals could upturn the apple cart. While the division may seem a forgone conclusion, it very seldom is.
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