The NFL is set to make history with its inaugural game in Brazil, featuring two promising NFC teams on Friday night. The Philadelphia Eagles, led by Jalen Hurts, will take on the Green Bay Packers, under the command of Jordan Love, at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo.
The Eagles are looking to bounce back after an early playoff exit last season, having reached the Super Bowl in the 2022-2023 season. Conversely, the Packers made a notable playoff run last year, defeating the Dallas Cowboys before being eliminated by the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers. Both teams are expected to be strong contenders for the playoffs this season, making for an exciting matchup to kick off the 2024 NFL season in South America.
The game is scheduled to begin at 8:15 p.m. ET and will be available for live streaming on Peacock. Betting odds show the Eagles as the moneyline favorites at -150, while the Packers are slightly behind at +125. The over/under is set at 48.5 points, with the Eagles favored by 3 points, according to BETMGM.
As the NFL continues its international expansion, this game in Brazil marks a significant milestone. The league has previously hosted games in England, Germany, and Mexico, with plans for a game in Madrid in 2025. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing Brazil’s importance as a key market for the league and the aim to provide a world-class game day experience for fans.
Highlighting the quarterbacks, Jalen Hurts is entering his fifth season with a high-profile contract, boasting an impressive win record since 2021, second only to Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. Meanwhile, Jordan Love, now in his second season as the starting quarterback for the Packers, recently signed the richest contract for a quarterback in NFL history, with expectations following a solid playoff performance last year.
For the Eagles, keep an eye on running back Saquon Barkley, who joined the team after a successful stint with the New York Giants. Barkley is expected to complement Hurts and enhance the Eagles’ offensive capabilities, particularly in establishing a strong run game.
Predictions from the USA TODAY Sports staff for the matchup vary, with several analysts favoring the Packers, while others predict a victory for the Eagles, showcasing the tight competition expected in this historic game.