Pro Picks is a regular feature highlighting predictions for the upcoming week in the NFL, and Week 9 showcases a mix of exciting matchups including a clash for first place, five visiting favorites, and a rematch of a previous Super Bowl.
On Sunday, the focus will be on the NFC North as the Detroit Lions (6-1) take on the Green Bay Packers (6-2). Two weeks ago, the Lions handed the Minnesota Vikings their first defeat, propelling them into a prominent position.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams (3-4) emerge as surprising road favorites against the Seattle Seahawks (4-4) in a crucial NFC West duel. The Rams are in pursuit of the leading trio of the division, which includes the Seahawks, Cardinals, and 49ers, all tied for first place.
Looking ahead to Monday night, the injury-riddled Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4) are set to face the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs (7-0). The Buccaneers are struggling, having lost three out of their last four games. In their previous Super Bowl matchup four years ago, Tom Brady’s Buccaneers triumphed over the Chiefs with a score of 31-9, derailing Kansas City’s hopes for consecutive titles.
The matchup is heavily leaning towards Kansas City, given their impressive 13-game winning streak despite some offensive inconsistencies. Patrick Mahomes, aided by De’Andre Hopkins, has the chance to exploit Tampa Bay’s struggling defense, which has allowed 33.4 points per game over the last month.
Best Bet: Chiefs 33-20
In another intriguing game, the Los Angeles Rams travel to Seattle. The Seahawks have been inconsistent, dropping four of their last five games, whereas the Rams are fresh off a win. The return of key players like Cooper Kupp has reinvigorated their offense, making them contenders despite previous struggles on the road.
Upset Special: Seahawks 24-23
The Houston Texans (6-2) face a daunting task against the New York Jets (2-6), who are still favored despite their ongoing five-game losing streak. The Texans are known for their defensive prowess, posing a significant challenge for the Jets’ slumping offense led by Aaron Rodgers.
Pick: Jets 19-16
In an NFC East battle, the Washington Commanders (6-2) visit the New York Giants (2-6). Washington has been a surprising contender this season while the Giants are struggling to find their form. Despite past challenges against NFC East rivals, the Commanders must remain focused if they want to secure a division title.
Pick: Commanders 22-20
The Dallas Cowboys (3-4) hit the road to face the Atlanta Falcons (5-3). The Cowboys must find a way to enhance their running game as they face a Falcons team that has shown flashes of excellence.
Pick: Cowboys 27-26
Las Vegas Raiders (2-6) visit the Cincinnati Bengals (3-5), where the Bengals must make a statement if they want to stay in playoff contention. The Raiders have struggled but have shown resilience with their recent spread record.
Pick: Bengals 27-18
In the matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers (4-3) and the Cleveland Browns (2-6), the Chargers appear to be trending upward with their offense clicking post-injury return. Meanwhile, the Browns continue to grapple with inconsistency.
Pick: Chargers 20-17
A battle featuring two of the league’s lower offenses occurs between the New England Patriots (2-6) and Tennessee Titans (1-6). The Titans possess a strong defense but are still rebuilding their offensive strategy under new management.
Pick: Titans 17-13
In a game between the struggling New Orleans Saints (2-6) and the Carolina Panthers (1-7), both teams are looking to steady their seasons while eyeing better positioning for the upcoming draft.
Pick: Saints 23-20
The Denver Broncos (5-3) take on the Baltimore Ravens (5-3). Despite the Ravens being favored, the Broncos are on the rise with recent good performance against the top defense in the league.
Pick: Ravens 23-16
The Miami Dolphins (2-5) face the Buffalo Bills (6-2), with Tua Tagovailoa returning to lead his team after a tough outing earlier in the season. Both teams will look to build their cases within the AFC standings.
Pick: Bills 27-23
The Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) challenge the Philadelphia Eagles (5-2), with the Eagles seemingly finding their stride recently under Jalen Hurts.
Pick: Eagles 27-22
Lastly, the Chicago Bears (4-3) meet the Arizona Cardinals (4-4). Following a heart-wrenching loss, the Bears will aim to bounce back against a resurgent Arizona team.
Pick: Bears 25-23
As Week 9 unfolds, the excitement grows with the variety of matchups and outcomes at stake, building anticipation for both fans and teams alike as they strive for playoff positions.