As the NFL preseason kicks off, all eyes are on the rookie quarterbacks making their professional debuts. The top two picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, Caleb Williams of the Bears and Jayden Daniels of the Commanders, will take the field on Saturday afternoon. Let’s take a closer look at the odds for the Chicago vs. Buffalo and Washington vs. New York Jets matchups.
In the game between the Commanders and the Jets, Caleb Williams will be starting under center after missing the Hall of Fame Game due to severe weather. Bears coach Matt Eberflus indicated that Williams and the starters will play a “range of snaps,” but it remains to be seen if Williams will see a full quarter of action.
“Williams is the consensus favorite among odds for Offensive Rookie of the Year,” mentioned Eberflus.
Backing up Williams will be Tyson Bagent and Brett Rypien, both of whom have experience in regular-season games. Rypien had a strong performance against Houston, completing 11-of-15 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns. Facing Buffalo’s second- or third-string defense, it’s no surprise that the total points in this matchup could reach as high as 39 at Fanatics Sportsbook.
On the Bills’ side, coach Sean McDermott stated that the offense will play “a quarter, give or take.” MVP candidate Josh Allen, rookie Keon Coleman, and new additions Curtis Samuel and Marquez Valdes-Scantling will all be key players in the first 12 minutes of the game. After Allen exits, Mitchell Trubisky and Shane Buechele will take the field.
Reports from training camp have been praising Jayden Daniels’ accuracy. With the Jets not using their starting defense much in recent preseason games, Daniels may have the opportunity to shine against backup players. However, the Jets’ depth was able to stifle former No. 1 pick Bryce Young in last year’s preseason, allowing only one first down in three possessions.
Additionally, Washington is looking to add depth at wide receiver, which could mean more opportunities for Daniels to work with Luke McCaffrey and Olamide Zaccheaus instead of the usual starters Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.
It’s set to be an exciting matchup with rookie quarterbacks making their mark in the NFL preseason. Stay tuned for more action and analysis as the games unfold.
