The NFL season has finally arrived, bringing with it a variety of contests, including the very popular survivor pools. In a survivor contest, the rules are simple: Pick one team each week to win outright. If your team wins, you advance to the next week; if they lose, you’re eliminated. However, once you pick a team, you can’t select them for the rest of the season. It’s wise to map out your picks in advance for each week so you can strategize your selections and avoid burning out your top choices too early. With that in mind, let’s dive into some top recommendations for your NFL survivor pool picks in Week 1.
NFL Survivor Pool Picks for Week 1 (2024)
NFL Survivor Pool Picks for Week 1: Bengals, Bills or Seahawks?
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Bengals (-8.5) vs Patriots | NFL Survivor Week 1
Let’s address the obvious choice first: the Cincinnati Bengals are expected to be the most popular survivor pick in Week 1. This comes as no surprise due to the brutal situation the New England Patriots are in this year. Despite drafting Drake Maye, it’s been announced that Jacoby Brissett will be the starting quarterback in Week 1.
Regardless of who starts, the offensive talent is severely lacking. Additionally, with a new coaching staff, there will be rocky transitions that will take time to smooth out. My favorite win total bet heading into this season is the Patriots under 4.5 wins; I wouldn’t be surprised if they finish as the worst team in the league.
With the Bengals sitting at -450 (81.8%) on FanDuel, it’s clear why just about everyone will be relying on Joe Burrow and company.
Bills (-6.5) vs Cardinals | NFL Survivor Week 1
It wasn’t the most ideal offseason for the Buffalo Bills, as they lost their star receiver Stefon Diggs, but there are still weapons to work with in Orchard Park. Most importantly, their defense will continue to dominate and limit the opposition.
This week, they face the Arizona Cardinals, a team with plenty of question marks. Kyler Murray enters the year healthy and will benefit from the addition of Marvin Harrison Jr. That said, what can we expect from Arizona’s defense?
Last season, they finished 31st in expected points added (EPA) per play. There’s little room to get worse, but I certainly don’t expect them to make massive, immediate strides either.
Look for Buffalo to come out on top in this matchup for a safer survivor play.
Seahawks (-6.0) vs Broncos | NFL Survivor Week 1
The Seattle Seahawks are my top choice for a survivor pick, based on this matchup and how I’ve mapped out the rest of the season. The only other spot I’d consider using them with as much conviction is Week 5 against the New York Giants.
However, I feel fairly comfortable with my alternative options that week. Seattle is listed at -250 (71.4%) at BetMGM. While they aren’t the biggest favorite on the board, they’re my favorite selection on this slate.
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix will be making his NFL debut, and there will be plenty of hurdles for the 24-year-old to overcome. I don’t expect smooth sailing out of the gate.
This Seahawks defense is expected to improve, and I believe that will be displayed on Sunday. Plus, Seattle’s offensive has plenty of firepower. As long as Geno Smith limits the turnovers, then first-year head coach Mike Macdonald should secure his first win.
My NFL Week 1 Survivor Pick: Seattle Seahawks
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