Tips for the first NFL week directly and against the spread: Who will win the best games?

The game can begin.

The 2024 NFL season is finally upon us. The Kansas City Chiefs are looking to make history and become the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls when they win another Lombardi Trophy in New Orleans on February 9. The defending champions' stated goal begins on Thursday night with revenge in the AFC Championship game against the Baltimore Ravens, with the duel this time of course taking place at Arrowhead Stadium as KC once again celebrates its NFL crown.

This Sizzler is not just an appetizer, but it is only the first of several main courses.

The league will also play that rare Friday night game in its first trip to the Brazilian capital during the regular season, as the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles, both presumed playoff contenders, meet at the Corinthians Arena in bustling São Paulo.

Sunday's 13-game schedule includes the regular-season debuts of rookie quarterbacks Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) and Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders), Tom Brady's introduction as Fox commentator for the Cleveland Browns' game against the Dallas Cowboys and Matthew Stafford's first regular-season game in Detroit – he suffered a playoff loss at Ford Field in January – when the Los Angeles Rams visit the Lions.

PLAY TO WIN $5,000: USA TODAY's Pro Football Survivor Pool is free to enter. Sign up now!

The conclusion comes on Monday night when the defending NFC champion San Francisco 49ers, back in shape with the return of wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and wide receiver Trent Williams, host the New York Jets, who enter with high hopes that quarterback Aaron Rodgers will play a full season and lead a loaded roster to the franchise's first championship in 56 years.

And our experts are back with their forecasts.

USA TODAY Sports predictions for the 2024 NFL season: Our picks for winning Super Bowl 59, MVP, Rookies of the Year, Nate Davis' updated earnings predictions and more