The 2024 NFL season kicked off on Thursday, but fans are in for a unique twist this Friday as the league holds its first-ever NFL game in Brazil. The historic matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers is set to take place at Neo Química Arena in Sao Paulo. Both teams are coming off postseason appearances last year and are expected to contend for divisional championships in 2024. Nearly 50,000 fans are expected to witness the action live.
This will be the fourth meeting between these franchises in the last five years, with the Eagles holding a 2-1 advantage both straight-up and against the spread in those matchups.
Game Details
- Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Neo Química Arena, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- Eagles: 2.5-point favorites
- Over/Under: 49.5 points
What to Expect
According to SportsLine’s Projection Model, the Eagles are favored by 2.5 points, while the total points expected in the game are 49.5. The model, which simulates every game 10,000 times, has been highly successful, earning well over $7,000 for top-rated NFL picks since its inception.
The model has been particularly effective over the past few years, ranking in the top 10 on NFLPickWatch four of the last six years for straight-up NFL picks. It also went on a 181-129 run on top-rated NFL picks, dating back to the 2017 season.
Why the Eagles Can Cover
The Eagles had an incredible 10-1 start last season following their Super Bowl appearance in 2022-23. However, they faltered down the stretch, losing five of their last six games and suffering a 32-9 loss to the Buccaneers in the NFL Wild Card round.
This season, the Eagles welcome new coordinators Vic Fangio and Kellen Moore, with an improved secondary featuring Darius Slay, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and top draft picks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Their offense also boasts weapons like Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and new additions Saquon Barkley and Jahan Dotson.
Why the Packers Can Cover
The Packers gained momentum late last season, ranking third in success rate from Weeks 10 to 18. Quarterback Jordan Love threw for over 215 yards in 12 consecutive games, including a deep playoff run, and Green Bay covered the spread in four of its last five games.
The Packers also added star running back Josh Jacobs to their roster, who has consistently proven himself as one of the best in the league. With an inexperienced Philadelphia secondary and the Eagles struggling in the final weeks of 2023, the Packers are optimistic about their chances. Green Bay went 8-4 against the spread as underdogs last year.
Final Thoughts
SportsLine’s model is leaning towards the Over on the total points, projecting the teams to combine for 55 points. The model also suggests that one side of the spread offers all the value.
Who will emerge victorious in this historic NFL Brazil Game 2024? Keep an eye on SportsLine’s picks to find out which side of the spread holds the best bet.