NAFC 2024 Season Predictions: Who’s Set for Glory and Who’s in Trouble?
Written by Dale Walters, NAFC League Insider, and Adam Ireland, NAFC Correspondent
With the 2024 NAFC Fantasy Football season approaching, it’s time to predict how the divisions will shake out, who makes the playoffs, and who ultimately hoists the Matthew Nevers Trophy. Draft Day saw some masterful moves and a few questionable decisions. Based on their post-draft rosters, here are our predictions for the upcoming season.
Hollywood Division Predictions:
- Atlantic City Aces (10-4)
The Aces are poised for a strong run this season with a well-rounded roster anchored by Justin Jefferson. They have a balanced team that can dominate through both the air and ground games. Expect them to lead the pack in the Hollywood Division. - California Rebels (9-5)
The Rebels, led by the dynamic duo of Patrick Mahomes and Tyreek Hill, will challenge the Aces but may fall short in consistency. Their explosive offense can win them games, but they’ll need to shore up their running back depth to stay competitive all season long. - Los Angeles USMC (8-6)
USMC has a solid team led by Lamar Jackson, but questions remain about their running back situation. They will be competitive, but their lack of depth in key areas might keep them from overtaking the Aces and Rebels. - Burlington Boss Hogs (6-8)
The Boss Hogs are in a rebuilding phase and will likely struggle against the more established teams in their division. While they have a few promising players, it may not be enough to make a playoff push this season.
Frontier Division Predictions:
- Austin Oilers (10-4)
With Ja’Marr Chase leading the charge, the Oilers are the favorites to win the Frontier Division. Their mix of strong wide receivers and dependable running backs should make them a tough team to beat, giving them the edge in a highly competitive division. - Albuquerque Roadrunners (9-5)
Christian McCaffrey and Stefon Diggs make the Roadrunners a formidable opponent. They’ll be hot on the Oilers’ heels all season, and their explosive offense could give them the edge in critical matchups. However, a few question marks in depth could hold them back. - Anchorage Commandos (7-7)
Anchorage is a bit of a wildcard. They have talent with A.J. Brown and Derrick Henry, but consistency will be key. If their stars can stay healthy, they could challenge for a playoff spot, but it will be a close call. - Montana Wombats (4-10)
The Wombats are facing an uphill battle this season, thanks to a draft that left them with more questions than answers. Coach Barry Smwock will need a miracle to turn this roster into a playoff contender. They might be looking ahead to 2025 before too long.
Emerald Division Predictions:
- Moscow Black Bears (10-4)
The Black Bears are set for a dominant season, with Breece Hall leading the charge. Their depth at wide receiver and running back positions makes them a well-rounded threat, and they’ll likely cruise to the top of the Emerald Division. - Seattle Heist (8-6)
Seattle’s track record with wide receivers gives them an edge, and with Garrett Wilson and Jahmyr Gibbs, they’ll be a tough out. Expect them to be Moscow’s primary competition in this division, with playoff aspirations well within reach. - El Paso Red Devils (8-6)
The Red Devils have a strong receiving corps led by CeeDee Lamb, but their running back situation is shaky. They could make a push for the playoffs, but a lack of balance might be their downfall in the long run. - Des Moines Metro Raiders (5-9)
Des Moines is in a rebuilding phase and will likely struggle in this tough division. Jonathan Taylor and Josh Jacobs give them a solid foundation, but they may need another season or two to become true contenders.
Playoff Predictions:
Eight teams will make the playoffs:
- Atlantic City Aces
- Moscow Black Bears
- Austin Oilers
- Seattle Heist
- California Rebels
- Albuquerque Roadrunners
- Los Angeles USMC
- El Paso Red Devils
Teams on the outside looking in include the Anchorage Commandos, Des Moines Metro Raiders, Burlington Boss Hogs, and Montana Wombats. The Commandos and Boss Hogs will likely just miss out, while the Raiders and Wombats will have to set their sights on 2025.
Yuma Bowl Championship Matchup Prediction:
Atlantic City Aces vs. Moscow Black Bears
Both the Aces and Black Bears have well-rounded teams that should carry them deep into the playoffs. Expect this showdown to feature explosive offenses and strategic play-calling, with the Aces ultimately prevailing in a closely contested Yuma Bowl.
Aces: 145.5 Black Bears: 137.8
2024 NAFC Fantasy Football MVP Prediction:
Justin Jefferson (Atlantic City Aces)
Jefferson’s consistency and ability to rack up points week after week make him the frontrunner for MVP. In a high-powered Aces offense, expect him to put up huge numbers and lead his team to the Yuma Bowl.
With the season just around the corner, these predictions set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and competitive year in the NAFC. Buckle up; it’s going to be a wild ride!