Dale’s Picks: Week 1 2024
Written by Dale Walters & Adam Ireland
As we kick off another exciting season of NAFC action, it’s time for the first edition of “Dale’s Picks” for Week 1. Based on the information provided about each team’s rosters, past performances, and the Vegas betting lines, here are the predictions for this week’s matchups. Let’s dive into the analysis and the expected outcomes of the games.
Des Moines Metro Raiders (0-0) @ California Rebels (0-0)
Vegas Lines: Rebels -6.7
The defending champions, the California Rebels, are coming into this game on a high. They’ve won all five of their banner-dropping games in the past, and that dominance is expected to continue here. With Patrick Mahomes and Tyreek Hill leading the charge, expect the Rebels to come out strong. The Raiders have potential but will struggle against the firepower of the Rebels’ offense.
Prediction: Rebels
Burlington Boss Hogs (0-0) @ Anchorage Commandos (0-0)
Vegas Lines: Boss Hogs -0.3
This matchup is expected to be close, and the Vegas line reflects that. The Boss Hogs have a solid roster headlined by Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts, but Anchorage isn’t a pushover with Derrick Henry and A.J. Brown in the mix. Ultimately, I see the Boss Hogs having just enough firepower to squeak out a narrow victory in what could be one of the closest games of the week.
Prediction: Boss Hogs win close
Los Angeles USMC (0-0) @ El Paso Red Devils (0-0)
Vegas Lines: El Paso -7
El Paso is favored by a touchdown, and with good reason. CeeDee Lamb and Mike Evans give the Red Devils a significant advantage in the passing game, while the USMC will need Lamar Jackson to be in MVP form to keep this close. Expect a competitive game early, but El Paso’s depth and superior receiving corps should pull them ahead late.
Prediction: Red Devils
Montana Wombats (0-0) @ Atlantic City Aces (0-0)
Vegas Lines: Aces -5.5
The Aces enter as strong favorites, and it’s easy to see why. With Justin Jefferson leading the charge and Kenneth Walker III providing support in the backfield, the Aces have the tools to be dangerous. Meanwhile, the Wombats have some exciting young talent in Bijan Robinson but lack the depth to compete with Atlantic City. Coach Barry Smwock’s squad will likely find themselves playing catch-up most of the game.
Prediction: Aces win a close-contested battle
Seattle Heist (0-0) @ Moscow Black Bears (0-0)
Vegas Lines: Seattle -5.1
Despite Seattle entering as the favorite, Moscow’s underdog potential is too strong to ignore. The Black Bears have a well-balanced roster, and Breece Hall’s explosiveness could be the difference-maker in this matchup. While Seattle boasts top-tier receivers like Garrett Wilson and DK Metcalf, Moscow’s defense is more than capable of keeping the game within reach. Expect Breece Hall to have a breakout performance, allowing Moscow to grind out a hard-fought victory on their home turf.
Prediction: Black Bears
Albuquerque Roadrunners (0-0) @ Austin Oilers (0-0)
Vegas Lines: ABQ -14.1
This is expected to be the most lopsided matchup of the week, with Albuquerque heavily favored. Christian McCaffrey is a game-changer in every sense, and with Travis Kelce as a security blanket, the Roadrunners are set to dominate. The Oilers, while featuring Ja’Marr Chase, don’t have enough firepower to keep up with Albuquerque’s high-octane offense. Expect the Roadrunners to roll to an easy victory in Week 1.
Prediction: Roadrunners win big
Final Thoughts
Week 1 is shaping up to be an exciting start to the NAFC season. While some matchups appear more competitive than others, anything can happen in fantasy football. Keep an eye on those close games, as they could set the tone for the rest of the season. Be sure to place your bets accordingly and enjoy the start of what should be a thrilling year of fantasy football.
