The Washington Commanders begin the 2024 NFL season on the road Sunday against the defending NFC South champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The Buccaneers opened as a 3.5-point favorite over the Commanders. Tampa Bay signed quarterback Baker Mayfield to an extension in the offseason after the 2018 No. 1 overall pick had his best NFL season in his first year with the Bucs.
Conversely, Washington begins a new era with No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels under center. There is a lot of excitement surrounding Daniels in new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s offense. However, Daniels faces a stiff test against Todd Bowles’ defense.
So, who wins?
According to NFL Pickwatch, 85% of expert pickers believe the Buccaneers will defeat the Commanders.
Washington was often a huge underdog last season and would go on to lose. However, this is a different group. The Commanders have a new coaching staff, and over half of the roster is new. Can the Commanders shock the NFL world on Sunday?