As the NFL 2024 season kicks off, all eyes are on the first month of games, a pivotal stretch that sets the tone for the rest of the year. Teams are shaking off the off-season rust, experimenting with strategies, and working to establish their identities. While it’s still early, the first four weeks can make or break a season. For some, it’s about getting momentum; for others, it’s about survival. Rookie players, new quarterbacks, and divisional matchups all play a critical role in how the year will unfold.
In this article, we’ll break down the key storylines to follow in September 2024 and explore why the opening month is crucial for teams vying for playoff spots and long-term success.
Key Teams to Watch in September 2024
The start of the season is especially important for teams that are undergoing significant changes, whether it’s a new quarterback, a new head coach, or a revamped roster. These teams will be looking to make an immediate impact to build momentum for the season.
1. The New-Look Denver Broncos
After a tumultuous 2023 season, the Denver Broncos enter 2024 with high hopes under new head coach Sean Payton. With quarterback Russell Wilson looking to bounce back, the early games will be essential for setting a new tone. Payton’s offensive system promises to unleash Wilson’s potential, but a few early wins are critical to avoid falling into a hole that could be tough to recover from.
The Broncos’ matchups in the opening month will provide insight into how quickly they’ve adjusted to Payton’s system and whether Wilson can return to form.
2. New York Jets: Aaron Rodgers’ Debut
One of the most anticipated storylines of the 2024 season is Aaron Rodgers’ debut with the New York Jets. After years of speculation, the four-time MVP finally made the move to New York, bringing Super Bowl aspirations with him. With Rodgers under center, the Jets are a legitimate playoff contender, but the opening month will determine how quickly he develops chemistry with his new teammates. The first few games will reveal if the Jets’ offense can keep up with their defense, which was one of the NFL’s best last season.
3. Los Angeles Rams: Matthew Stafford’s Health
The Rams had a rough 2023 season, but with quarterback Matthew Stafford returning healthy in 2024, they could surprise many. A strong start is crucial for the Rams, especially with a competitive NFC West division. Stafford’s ability to stay healthy and connect with wide receiver Cooper Kupp will be key in these opening weeks. If the Rams can secure wins early, they may be able to build momentum to challenge the other teams in their division.
Rookie Impact: Quarterbacks and Fresh Faces
The 2024 NFL season features several exciting rookies, particularly quarterbacks who will be thrust into starting roles right away. These players are under intense pressure to perform early in the season, as their performances could dictate the trajectory of their respective teams’ years.
1. Bryce Young – Carolina Panthers
Bryce Young, the first overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft, takes the reins for the Carolina Panthers as their starting quarterback. Young’s composure and skill set made him a favorite to start, but the opening games will test his readiness for the NFL. If Young can guide the Panthers to competitive performances against tough opponents in September, it will show that Carolina made the right decision in choosing him as their future leader.
2. C.J. Stroud – Houston Texans
C.J. Stroud’s path to becoming the starter in Houston was highly anticipated, and the Texans are hoping that their franchise quarterback can deliver immediate results. With a young, dynamic roster surrounding him, Stroud will look to prove that his college success can translate to the NFL. Early-season matchups will be crucial for both Stroud’s development and the Texans’ long-term rebuilding efforts.
3. Anthony Richardson – Indianapolis Colts
As another rookie quarterback set to take center stage, Anthony Richardson has all the physical tools to succeed but will need to refine his skills on the fly. His ability to lead the Colts’ offense in the first few weeks will be an indicator of whether the franchise’s faith in him will pay off. Richardson’s unique blend of size, speed, and arm talent has the potential to turn heads, but how quickly he adjusts to the speed of the NFL will be crucial.
The Importance of Divisional Games
While every game matters, divisional matchups in September hold particular significance. These games often set the foundation for playoff positioning and can give teams a critical early advantage or put them in a tough spot.
1. NFC East Showdowns
The NFC East is one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions, and the early games in September will set the stage for the rest of the season. With the Philadelphia Eagles coming off a Super Bowl appearance, the Dallas Cowboys aiming to challenge for the top spot, and the Washington Commanders and New York Giants both looking to improve, every divisional win is valuable. The results of these matchups could give a team the confidence to build a winning streak or put another team in a hole from which they can’t recover.
2. AFC North Rivalries
In the AFC North, teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Cleveland Browns are expected to be playoff contenders. Early divisional games between these teams are crucial. A win in September can give a team the inside track for a playoff spot and make the head-to-head tiebreakers in December that much more important.
For instance, a game between the Bengals and Ravens could be a precursor to a high-stakes battle later in the season, and an early victory would give one team a psychological edge.
How Injuries Could Shape the Season
Injuries are always an unfortunate part of the NFL, but they can be particularly devastating in the early weeks of the season when teams are still working to find their rhythm. A key injury can derail a team’s playoff hopes before the season truly begins.
1. Quarterback Health
Any significant injury to starting quarterbacks early in the season, such as an injury to Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, or Josh Allen, could alter the entire landscape of the league. Losing a star quarterback often leads to a decline in performance across the team, affecting both offense and defense.
2. Impact on Playoff Races
Teams vying for playoff spots will feel the weight of injuries even more. An injury in September could lead to a string of losses, making it harder for teams to recover and make the postseason. For example, if a team like the Kansas City Chiefs or San Francisco 49ers lose a critical player early, the window for recovery becomes smaller with each passing game.
Conclusion
September 2024 is shaping up to be a thrilling start to the NFL season, with plenty at stake for teams and players. The first month sets the tone for the rest of the year, and early victories or losses will have far-reaching consequences as playoff races begin to take form. From new quarterbacks making their debut to crucial divisional matchups, the early weeks will help shape the narrative of the season. Keep an eye on these key developments, as they will provide the foundation for what promises to be an exciting NFL year.
