Pro Football History.com Blog

September 26th, 2024

By Stephen Juza

We’re now three weeks into the season—is it already time to panic for some teams around the league? Which teams have surprised, and which teams have disappointed their fans the most?

For added intrigue, check out a variety of sites by Lucky Gambler to check if your team's odds have improved throughout the season.

Biggest Disappointment: Cincinnati Bengals

While the AFC North has been arguably the toughest division over the last few years, the Bengals are off to an 0-3 start that may be impossible to come back from. No team has ever started 0-3 and made the playoffs, and competing against the undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers, that 0-3 climb may be steep. However, there is still some optimism for the team.

First, they have not played any division opponents. While they started 0-3, the Browns and Ravens are off to a 1-2 start. Secondly, the Steelers are riding a surprising start by new quarterback Justin Fields. After being cast away by the Chicago Bears this offseason, Fields has looked efficient for the Steelers under new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. However, he may be ripe for a return to his Bears form once teams have additional tape on him in Smith’s scheme

However, it is an unexpected start for the Bengals that have championship aspirations.

Biggest Surprise: Minnesota Vikings

After losing first-round pick J.J. McCarthy in the preseason, Vikings turned to Sam Darnold to lead the offense. Entering his seventh season, Darnold was not viewed as a viable starting QB for a competing team after six underwhelming seasons around the league. However, through three games, he is playing the best football of his career, and the Vikings are off to a stellar 3-0 start.

But it’s not just Darnold. The Vikings defense has been playing lights out, allowing the second-fewest points behind defensive coordinator Brian Flores. The next three weeks are pivotal for the Vikings. With two divisional games and one against the 2-1 Jets, the Vikings have a grasp of where their season is headed by the middle of October.

Biggest Non-Surprise: Kansas City Chiefs

It’s never easy to defend a Super Bowl title, and it’s even more difficult to go for a three-peat. However, the Chiefs entered the 2024 season with arguably the best chance of anyone in modern NFL history to win three straight Super Bowls and they are showing why. With a strong 3-0 start (albeit some favorable calls from some officials), they continue to get their business settled each week. Wide receiver Rashee Rice has been sensational, leading the league in receptions. Rice’s emergence has been critical to the Chiefs offense as tight end Travis Kelce is off to the slowest start of his career since taking over as the starting tight end, only putting up 69 yards and zero touchdowns through three games.

This offseason, we wrote about the key to continued Chiefs’ dominance was being able to replace Kelce as the number-one receiving option, and head coach Andy Reid may think he’s found the guy with Rice. Time will tell, but their title defense is off to a predictable great start.

Upcoming:

Week four kicks off tonight with a critical NFC East matchup between the New York Giants hosting the Dallas Cowboys, as they both try to get their season back on track with a disappointing 1-2 start.

September 26th, 2024

After a summer fixated on soccer thanks to UEFA Euro 2024 and the Copa America, attention turned back to the gridiron on August 25th, initially to the NCAA. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets upset the number ten ranked Florida State Seminoles to claim the curtain-raising Aer Lingus Classic at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. Now, it's the time for the big league to take center stage.

The reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs will raise the curtain on the new campaign as they host the Baltimore Ravens at Arrowhead Stadium in a repeat of last season's conference championship game. The Chiefs Kingdom will do their utmost to ensure that their fabled atmosphere riles up the visiting Lamar Jackson to help their side to victory. But where do they rank on the list of the league's best fan bases? Let's find out.

Bills Mafia

At the top of any discussion about devoted NFL supporters is the Bills Mafia. The Buffalo Bills faithful are synonymous with loyalty and resilience. Despite the harsh winters and a playoff drought that lasted 18 years, the New York State supporters fans have consistently filled the stands, creating an electrifying atmosphere at Highmark Stadium. And the fact that they continue to do exactly that despite the heartbreak they have suffered over the decades is as big a testament as we could ever give them.

In the early 1990s, the Buffalo Bills became the first team in history to reach four straight Super Bowls, with quarterback Jim Kelly and his no-huddle offense causing chaos throughout the league. However, they inexplicably lost on all four of their trips to the big game, and they haven't returned to it since. They remain one of just 12 active teams to have never lifted the Lombardi, despite their numerous trips to the championship game.

As mentioned, they had to endure an 18-year drought without reaching the playoffs between 1999 and 2017, however, things have changed for the better since the drafting of former University of Wyoming star Josh Allen. The mercurial quarterback has led his side to the playoffs in each of the last five seasons, four of them as AFC East Champions. However, he has continually come unstuck against Patrick Mahomes and his dynasty-like Chiefs, suffering eliminations at their hands in three of the last four campaigns.

In recent times, Bill's Mafia continually braves the elements despite the years of pain. Not only are they notoriously raucous, but they are also a charitable bunch. They have frequently turned the spotlight onto causes close to their heart, raising substantial funds for charities, most notably celebrating Josh Allen's late grandmother’s memory by raising over a million dollars for a local children’s hospital.

Chiefs Kingdom

Arrowhead Stadium, home to the Chiefs Kingdom, is one of the loudest venues in the NFL. The fan base has been continually hailed as the 12th man for the reigning champion KC, and their boisterous support has been evident in the postseason. The Chiefs have lost just one playoff game in front of their adoring public in the last five years, winning nine in the process. The Kingdom is known for creating a sea of red on game days, and they - along with the atmospheric Arrowhead - hold the record for the loudest crowd roar at an outdoor stadium, reaching an ear-splitting 142.2 decibels during a 2014 clash against the New England Patriots.

With such fervent support on the side, it should come as no surprise that the Chiefs have emerged as the NFL's latest dynasty. They have reached four Super Bowls in the last five years, winning three of them including the most recent Super Bowl LVIII, which was their second triumph in a row. This season, they will have the chance to make history by becoming the first team to ever lift the Lombardi in three consecutive seasons, and the bookies think that they are up to the task.

Fred Jackson x Super Bowl LVIII Q&A - YouTube

The latest odds from the Bovada sportsbook make the Chiefs a +500 favorite to lift the trophy once again this season. For the Chiefs Kingdom, they will be hoping that the bookies are correct in their estimations, allowing them to celebrate yet another triumph long into the Kansas City evening next February.

The Cheeseheads

No discussion of NFL fan bases is complete without mentioning the Cheeseheads, the iconic supporters of the Green Bay Packers. With a team owned by its fans, the bond between the Packers and their supporters is unique and deeply personal.

Lambeau Field is a historic venue where fans brave freezing temperatures to cheer for their beloved team, and in recent years, they have been able to do plenty of cheering.

Last season, expectations were at an all-time low courtesy of the departure of long-time quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The four-time MVP and future hall of fame opted to move to the New York Jets and many predicted a downfall for the Packers.

But with the Cheeseheads on their side and the emergence of superstar quarterback Jordan Love, Green Bay managed to make it to the Divisional Round of the playoffs, beating their rival Dallas Cowboys - on enemy territory no less - in the process.

September 26th, 2024

The NFL is peppered with shocking moments—extraordinary feats where the underdogs took reigns of the match, defying the odds and etching their names in football lore. And these go back to the '60s and '70s, like the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants' rivalry that is still going strong! Fast-forward to even the 2000s and beyond, countless plays in the NFL history books left fans and analysts alike in awe. Let’s look at 3 of the most shocking upsets that still have fans reeling today.

Reliving Memorable Upsets That Shook the NFL

All is fair play before the final whistle — after all, the underdog's determination can turn the score around in the "eleventh hour" of the game. To us as fans, these moments have us on the edge of our seats and will fuel countless debates for years to come! And it's not an understatement to say that they are part and parcel of the NFL's widespread popularity.

A fumble or foiled play just seconds to the final whistle can be all it takes to upend the scoreline. If you're looking to be part of the play, NFL football betting lets you test your forecast, backing the underdog in futures, halftime, or quarter markets. Even better, in-play (live) betting lets you call these moments in real-time. These upsets are plays for the ages, and if you're a new fan, you're in for a treat!

1978 Week 12: Victory at the Face of Certain Defeat (Eagles 19, Giants 17)

If we're going down the NFL annals, we must highlight the "Miracle at the Meadowlands", a stunning feat in the wee hours of the game that remains etched in football fans’ memories. With just 31 seconds left on the clock in the 4th quarter and the Giants leading 17-12, victory seemed certain, and they could have easily taken a knee to run out the remaining time.

But in what seemed like a divine intervention, quarterback Joe Pisarcik's botched attempt (fumble) to hand the football to Larry Csonka saw Eagles' Herman Edwards recover it and sprint down 26 yards for a touchdown, sealing a 19-17 victory. This incredible play changed the way teams approached the final seconds of a game. A similar stunt feat occurred in what fans would name Miracle at the New Meadowlands (2010), where the Eagles made an improbable comeback, winning over the New York Giants (Eagles 38, Giants 31).

1999-2000 Wild Card Round: The Controversial Lateral Pass (Titans 22, Bills 16)

The wild-card playoff pitting the Tennessee Titans against the Buffalo Bills in 2000 produced perhaps one of the most controversial (yet exciting) finishes in NFL history. Dubbed the "Music City Miracle," the Titans were trailing (16-15 against the Bills. With just 16 seconds on the clock, a kickoff return saw Frank Wycheck throw a lateral pass to Kevin Dyson, who sprinted 75 yards for a touchdown—securing a 22-16 win just moments before the final whistle. The move sparked heated debates about it possibly being an illegal forward pass; still, the referee's challenge upheld the call, and to date, it remains one of the most unforgettable moments in NFL history.

Super Bowl XLII (2008): The Helmet Catch (Giants 17, Patriots 14)

Super Bowl XLII marked an amazing season for the New England Patriots, who went undefeated leading up to the big game. Victory seemed inevitable; after all, they were favored to win. But, fate had other plans! Down to the 4th quarter, the Giants were still playing catch, with the Patriots leading 14-10. With 2:39 left on the clock, Giants quarterback Eli Manning aired the ball (slung it) down the field, where we got David Tyree’s iconic “Helmet Catch”, by far the game's most memorable play. Immediately after, a first-down conversion by Steve Smith saw wide receiver Plaxico Burress score the winning touchdown, pulling off a stunning 17-14 upset, and denying the Patriots their perfect season.

The Underdog's Tale: Upsets That Defied the Odds

There you have it! If there's anything we can learn from these moments, it's that the beauty of the NFL (football) lies in the unpredictable—anything can happen, and the underdog always has a fighting chance. Even years later, these games remind us why we love football and will continue to inspire fans and players alike for generations to come.

September 19th, 2024

Football has always captured the hearts of millions across the nation. Keeping up with the latest news and developments in the sport is crucial for fans and analysts alike. As we dive into the 2024 NFL season, the NFC East stands out as one of the most competitive and intriguing divisions in football, not least because of its rich history of fierce rivalries and a roster of talented teams. Let's look at the key contenders – the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders and New York Giants – to get a clearer picture of what's to come.

Philadelphia Eagles

If you're a football fan, then you've surely seen that the Eagles are coming off an impressive season, showcasing one of the most well-rounded rosters in the league. Their success in 2023, including a strong playoff run, has set really high expectations for 2024. Jalen Hurts continues to be a dynamic force at quarterback, and his development as a passer complements his dual-threat capabilities. The Eagles' offense is bolstered by a deep receiving corps and a potent running game led by rising star Kenneth Gainwell. Their defense, anchored by an elite defensive line and a versatile secondary, remains formidable. The key for Philadelphia will be maintaining health and consistency. If Hurts stays at his high level of play and the defense continues to perform at an elite level, the Eagles are well-positioned to repeat as NFC East champions. In case you are looking to get some skin in the game and place a sports bet, make sure that you stay well-informed via sites like https://www.betting.us, one of the best football betting sites, to enhance your understanding of the game's intricacies.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys have been a perennial contender in the NFC East, and 2024 is no different. With Dak Prescott at the helm, Dallas boasts one of the most potent offenses in the league. Prescott’s ability to distribute the ball effectively, combined with the dynamic playmaking of CeeDee Lamb and the powerful running of Tony Pollard, gives the Cowboys a multifaceted offensive attack. Remember that a team is only as strong as its worst player and things like player trades, new signings and which respective stadium the match is played at has a gigantic impact on the outcome. Back to the players, the addition of a few key defensive pieces and the continued development of young stars like Micah Parsons make their defense a significant asset. The Cowboys' challenge lies in overcoming their recent playoff disappointments and ensuring their defense performs consistently. If Prescott can stay healthy and avoid turnovers, and if the defense can step up in critical moments, the Cowboys have a strong chance to claim the division title. Fans who engage with detailed analyses including innovative technologies can appreciate the nuances that often go unnoticed during live broadcasts.

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders have undergone significant changes in recent years, with a new ownership group and coaching staff aiming to turn the team’s fortunes around. The arrival of new head coach and a revamped offensive scheme should provide a fresh start. Sam Howell, now more experienced, is poised to lead the offense with more confidence. The Commanders' defense remains one of the most promising units in the league, featuring a strong pass rush and an improving secondary. For Washington to be a serious contender in the NFC East, they need Howell to make substantial progress and for their defense to remain as impactful as it has been. While they might not be the favorites, their potential for improvement could make them a dark horse in the division.

New York Giants

The New York Giants are in a phase of rebuilding under their current regime. Daniel Jones, while showing flashes of promise, needs to develop further consistency as the quarterback. The Giants' offense is bolstered by Saquon Barkley, whose health and performance will be crucial for their success. Their defense, led by a few key veterans and emerging talents, has the potential to be disruptive. The Giants face the challenge of bridging the gap between rebuilding and competing. If Jones can progress significantly and Barkley stays healthy, the Giants could pose a challenge, but it may be more realistic to expect them to be a year or two away from truly contending for the division title.

Prediction

Given the current landscape and team dynamics, the Philadelphia Eagles are the most likely candidates to win the NFC East in 2024. Their well-rounded roster, strong quarterback play, and solid defense give them a slight edge over their rivals. However, the Dallas Cowboys are a close second, with their high-powered offense and improving defense. If the Cowboys can resolve their recent playoff woes, they could certainly challenge the Eagles for the top spot. The Washington Commanders and New York Giants, while promising, may need more time to bridge the gap with the division’s top teams.

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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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