The first-ever NFL game in Brazil will see the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles play on Friday night, as two of the NFC’s potential juggernauts face off at Corinthians Arena. The Packers were one of the surprise teams of the 2023 NFL season, advancing to the divisional round of the playoffs on the back of an excellent campaign from quarterback Jordan Love.
Despite that, the Eagles (-150) head into the game as favorites as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2023 season, though the current spread has just three points or less between the teams at NFL betting sites. We also cover a sportsbook promo from Caesars down below.
Philadelphia Eagles favored over Green Bay Packers in international matchup
How the Philadelphia Eagles could win this game
The Philadelphia Eagles were left with a big hole in their roster this offseason when center Jason Kelce retired following 13 excellent seasons. Kelce was the anchor for the Eagles’ offense, providing excellent run-blocking and pass-blocking for consistently one of the best offenses in the NFL. Despite that loss, the Eagles could still look to utilize their strength in the running game against the Packers.
Jalen Hurts scored a career-high 15 rushing touchdowns last season and averaged 35.6 rushing yards per game as the Eagles rushed for the ninth-most yards per game. Adding Saquon Barkley in the offseason likely only strengthens the Eagles’ rushing attack, too. Barkley rushed for 962 yards in 2023 and will now operate behind a strong offensive line. The Packers’ defense has also struggled against rushing attacks in recent seasons, giving up the fifth-most rushing yards per game in 2023. If the Eagles can pound the rock and lean into their strength, they could start the season 1-0.
How the Green Bay Packers could win this game
The Green Bay Packers caught fire in the second half of the 2023 season, winning six of their last eight to finish with a 9-8 record in regulation before erupting against the Dallas Cowboys in the wild card round. Their rise coincided with quarterback Jordan Love breaking out, as he completed 64.2% of his passes for 4,159 yards and 32 touchdowns.
Love and the Packers’ passing game could take advantage of an Eagles secondary that may struggle in 2024. The Packers have a talented group of wide receivers, with any of Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, Dontayvion Wicks, and Romeo Doubs all capable of beating NFL defenses in various ways. If Matt LaFleur can put Love in a position where he can consistently get the ball to his receivers, then the Packers could win this game.