USA Right this moment author, Nate Davis, launched his 2024 NFL report projections on Monday, and I’ve some notes.
Very first thing of observe, is my response, which phrases fail to explain, so as a substitute right here is Clint Eastwood’s face, which completely sums it up:
As a matter of reality, I believe I’ll simply follow the theme and do a 3 half breakdown of Nate’s projections, giving just a little wink to the traditional spaghetti western, Il Buono, Il Brutto, Il Cattivo.
The Good
It’s not all dangerous, actually. Taking a look at his historical past of projections over the previous few seasons, Nate’s had some actual good calls, like taking the Lions to win the NFC North at 11-6 in 2023, although they’d truly go 12-5. He additionally predicted them dropping within the NFC championship spherical, which they did, though they misplaced to the San Francisco 49ers quite than the Philadelphia Eagles. Additionally value noting, he projected the Eagles at 12-5 and the 49ers 11-6, which in fact, he simply received backwards. He additionally projected the Seahawks to go 10-7 in 2023, and if we’re being trustworthy, it seems like he received screwed on that one. Basically, Nate appears to do very well determining who the highest half of the league is annually, and making imprecise, affordable guesses on what their data is likely to be. Everyone knows what they are saying about blind squirrels and damaged clocks, although.
The Unhealthy
Dude, critically? The New York Jets over the Inexperienced Bay Packers within the Tremendous Bowl?! Did Nate go on a retreat with Aaron Rodgers over the offseason, or one thing? The Indianapolis Colts successful the AFC South? Okay, I believe they are often threatening if Anthony Richardson stays wholesome, however to assume the Colts AND the Jacksonville Jaguars are one way or the other higher than the Houston Texans, who added Stefon Diggs, Danielle Hunter, and Denico Autry this offseason, is a Colin Cowherd-tier scorching take.
The Ugly
Lastly, the elephant within the room. In 2022, following the commerce of Russell Wilson, and the discharge of Bobby Wagner, Nate projected the Seattle Seahawks to complete 5-12. On the time, I believe that was an inexpensive projection earlier than the inevitability of Geno Smith and the revelation of some proficient newcomers ran the win whole as much as 10. This yr, his 5-12 projection for Seattle is downright insulting, and a transparent admission that he hasn’t been paying consideration. His arguments of latest teaching, new tradition, and final season’s ineptitude at stopping the run are uninspired and present a floor stage understanding of the state of affairs at finest. He additionally falls nicely wanting acknowledging the wildly potent offense that seems to have improved its offensive line, and the scrappy younger protection with a revamped defensive position that solely must not utterly suck in an effort to enhance upon 2023. I imply, come on man, at the least point out the within linebacker state of affairs to point out just a little credibility. On the intense facet, even he is aware of we’re higher than the Denver Broncos.
Tell us within the remark part under, how do you are feeling about Nate’s projections?
