The Week 9 NFL schedule for the 2024 season is stacked with nice matchups, and we now have you lined with what that you must know heading into the weekend.
Our NFL Nation reporters convey us the largest keys to each sport, and analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup. The ESPN Analysis staff gives a giant stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest, whereas our Soccer Energy Index (FPI) goes contained in the numbers with a sport projection. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody finds fantasy soccer X elements, and three analysts — Kalyn Kahler, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each sport. All the pieces you need to know is right here in a single spot that can assist you prepare for a loaded weekend of NFL soccer.
Let’s get into the total Week 9 slate, together with an NFC North showdown between the Lions and Packers and the quarterback Joe Flacco–led Colts taking up the Vikings. All of it culminates with a “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Buccaneers and the Chiefs on ESPN. (Recreation occasions are Sunday except in any other case famous.)
Cowboys storyline to look at: The Cowboys are at a crossroads. Will they be contending for the playoffs or draft positioning within the second half of the season? Solely as soon as since 1989 have the Cowboys made the playoffs after beginning 3-5 — in 2018 when their midseason commerce for large receiver Amari Cooper sparked a 10-6 end. However a 4-4 document after eight video games is not any assure both. In that very same time span, they’ve made the playoffs twice out of the 5 occasions they had been .500 after eight video games. — Todd Archer
Falcons storyline to look at: The offensively versatile Falcons may turn out to be a run-first staff once more this weekend. The Cowboys have allowed the second-most touchdowns on the bottom (12) and the fourth-highest yards per carry (tied, 4.8) within the league. To go deeper, Bijan Robinson has a league-best 57.6% success charge on under-center runs amongst working backs with no less than 30 carries, whereas the Cowboys have given up the second-highest success charge (49.3%) on such runs, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. — Marc Raimondi
Stat to know: A defeat for the Cowboys would match their loss whole from every of the earlier three seasons (12-5 from 2021 to 2023).
Daring prediction: Falcons tight finish Kyle Pitts will document underneath 25 receiving yards. I’m not anticipating a breakout from him, not with a 33 open rating anyway. That’s the worst amongst all qualifying tight ends and large receivers. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Robinson. He has had 18 or extra touches and 20 or extra fantasy factors in three consecutive video games. Now, Robinson faces a Cowboys protection that ranks thirtieth in run cease win charge (26.7%) and offers up the fourth-most fantasy factors per sport. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Cowboys are 0-5 ATS of their previous 5 video games following a loss (0-3 ATS after a loss this season). Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Falcons 28, Cowboys 20
Moody’s decide: Falcons 31, Cowboys, 27
Walder’s decide: Cowboys 27, Falcons 23
FPI prediction: ATL, 56.7% (by a median of two.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: One other missed likelihood by Cowboys, Prescott versus 49ers … Falcons’ Pitts having profession revival with assist of Kirk Cousins
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BUF -6 (48.5 O/U)
Dolphins storyline to look at: Dolphins rookie working again Jaylen Wright leads the staff in yards per carry (5.3). He averages solely six touches per sport to De’Von Achane‘s and Raheem Mostert‘s 11.6 and 11.3, respectively. Achane has been Miami’s finest offensive participant this season, and coach Mike McDaniel stated Mostert has been a “gigantic tone-setter” for the staff. Nonetheless, when requested about getting the rookie extra concerned, McDaniel stated Miami will make the “necessary adjustments to make sure that he can contribute his skill set.” — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Payments storyline to look at: Rookie receiver Keon Coleman has 9 receptions for 195 yards previously two video games. He had 201 receiving yards within the first six video games. “The trust that I have in him just grows day by day, and we get extra reps after practice, and you see that starting to pay dividends,” quarterback Josh Allen stated. The Payments’ offense has had success at residence this season, averaging 38.3 factors in three video games. — Alaina Getzenberg
Stat to know: The Dolphins have scored 28 whole factors in three highway video games this season. They’ve scored underneath 40 whole factors of their first 4 highway video games solely as soon as in franchise historical past (30 in 1967).
0:39
Why Subject Yates is nervous to start out Tua vs. Payments
Subject Yates and Stephania Bell talk about if Tua Tagovailoa may have a giant day towards the Payments.
Daring prediction: Payments tight finish Dalton Kincaid will document six or extra receptions. In opposition to the Dolphins, 23% of targets have gone to tight ends this season, which is tied for the very best charge within the NFL. — Walder
Accidents: Dolphins | Payments
Fantasy X issue: Payments large receiver Khalil Shakir. Buffalo’s passing sport is trending up, with Allen throwing for 280 or extra yards in consecutive video games. Shakir has had seven or extra targets and 13 or extra fantasy factors in these video games. The Dolphins rank within the prime eight within the league of their use of zone protection, and Allen ranks close to the highest of the league in QBR towards zone protection. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is 4-0-1 ATS in his profession as no less than a six-point underdog. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Payments 30, Dolphins 21
Moody’s decide: Payments 34, Dolphins 24
Walder’s decide: Payments 30, Dolphins 23
FPI prediction: BUF, 72.0% (by a median of 9.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: How Tua stayed linked with Dolphins whereas on IR … Allen takes Payments QB room to World Sequence Recreation 4 … Tua praised for shielding self in Miami loss
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: CIN -7 (46.5 O/U)
Raiders storyline to look at: The Raiders have already used 4 completely different beginning offensive line mixtures in eight video games and might need to deploy a fifth towards the Bengals. Middle Andre James is coping with a proper ankle damage that knocked him out of final week’s loss to the Chiefs. Rookie left guard Jackson Powers-Johnson, who gained the 2023 Rimington Trophy as the perfect faculty middle, slid over to shut out the sport, with out a lot of a drop-off. “I’ve got great guys around me,” Powers-Johnson stated. “The whole line is pushing for me and wanting me to be great. … Definitely a learning curve, so I’ve got to get on the bike again and start riding the tricycle again.” — Paul Gutierrez
Bengals storyline to look at: One matchup may dictate how issues go for the Bengals’ offense: left deal with Orlando Brown Jr., who’s battling a decrease proper leg damage forward of Sunday’s sport, vs. Maxx Crosby, who’s ninth within the league in cross rush win charge as an edge rusher (22.3%). Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is aware of the plan for achievement is easy: “The biggest thing is eliminate [Crosby’s] ability to affect the game.” — Ben Child
Stat to know: Burrow has handed for fewer than 250 yards in three consecutive video games, tied for the longest streak of his profession. He has a complete of 347 passing yards in two contests towards the Raiders, together with the playoffs.
Daring prediction: Raiders large receiver Jakobi Meyers will document 80-plus receiving yards. Meyers will face Bengals nook Cam Taylor-Britt, who has allowed 1.9 yards per protection snap — fourth most amongst all outdoors corners with no less than 100 protection snaps. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Bengals working again Chase Brown. Cincinnati’s backfield began as a committee with Zack Moss and Brown, however Brown’s workload has ramped up recently. He has logged 14 or extra touches in 4 of the previous 5 video games and scored 14-plus fantasy factors in three of these. This week, he has a positive matchup towards a Raiders protection that’s giving up the seventh-most dashing yards per try and working backs. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Raiders’ Antonio Pierce is 12-5 ATS in his profession, which is the perfect mark of anybody who has coached no less than 10 video games. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Bengals 24, Raiders 17
Moody’s decide: Bengals 28, Raiders 24
Walder’s decide: Bengals 34, Raiders 19
FPI prediction: CIN, 65.0% (by a median of 5.6 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Pierce: Raiders should ‘clean up’ playcalling, offensive points … 3 methods the Bengals’ protection regressed since Tremendous Bowl LVI … Raiders’ run sport reaches tragic low vs. Chiefs
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: LAC -1.5 (42.5 O/U)
Chargers storyline to look at: After throwing for fewer than 200 yards in every of the primary 4 video games this season, quarterback Justin Herbert heads to Cleveland on a three-game stretch of averaging 288 yards per sport. Cleveland has allowed 200-plus passing yards 4 occasions. — Kris Rhim
Browns storyline to look at: QB Jameis Winston reworked the Browns’ offense in his first begin — 334 passing yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions — however is his efficiency sustainable? Sunday’s matchup towards the Chargers, the perfect protection Cleveland has confronted thus far, can be telling. Los Angeles leads the NFL in scoring protection, permitting 13 factors per sport. — Daniel Oyefusi
Stat to know: That is the primary assembly between these groups since Week 5 of 2022. The Chargers have gained 5 of the previous six conferences, courting to 2015.
Daring prediction: Winston will throw two or extra interceptions. He had two dropped interceptions towards the Ravens final week. He’s not going to get that fortunate once more. No quarterback has greater than 4 dropped interceptions this season — and Winston has began just one sport. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Browns large receiver Cedric Tillman. He has two straight video games of 9 or extra targets and no less than 18.0 fantasy factors. Tillman has stepped up large with Amari Cooper gone, and now he’s catching passes from Winston, which supplies him an added edge. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Chargers are 4-1 ATS as favorites this season, together with 3-0 towards groups with dropping information. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Chargers 24, Browns 22
Moody’s decide: Chargers 17, Browns 16
Walder’s decide: Chargers 23, Browns 16
FPI prediction: CLE, 54.3% (by a median of 1.5 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Chargers rookie efficiency in Week 8 affords vindication … QB Winston respiration new life into Browns’ offense … Winston to stay Browns’ QB1 after Ravens upset
0:43
Why Cedric Tillman is a must-add for fantasy managers
Eric Karabell explains why fantasy managers must seize Browns WR Cedric Tillman if they will.
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: TEN -3.5 (37.5 O/U)
Patriots storyline to look at: Rookie quarterback Drake Maye has been in concussion protocol since Sunday, however as a restricted participant in observe all through the week, so coach Jerod Mayo is leaving open the chance that he performs. “I do have confidence that if the league says he’s ready to play, he will be able to go out there and operate,” Mayo stated. If Maye isn’t cleared to play, veteran Jacoby Brissett will get the beginning and rookie Joe Milton III would be the backup. — Mike Reiss
Titans storyline to look at: The Titans are but to win a sport at residence this season. The Patriots haven’t gained on the highway for the reason that season opener towards the Bengals. At 1-6, the Titans ought to take no sport as a right. However this week needs to be an excellent alternative for coach Brian Callahan to get his first win at Nissan Stadium. “I’m excited to get back in front of our fans and give them something to be excited about again.” — Turron Davenport
Stat to know: The Titans misplaced back-to-back video games by no less than 20 factors for the primary time since Weeks 13-14 in 2014. They haven’t misplaced three straight by 20 factors since October 2009.
Daring prediction: Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez will document an interception. Gonzalez has the very best goal charge amongst outdoors corners with a better-than-average yards per protection snap and 100 protection snaps, per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats. In different phrases, the ball is coming his manner however he’s not permitting plenty of manufacturing. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Patriots working again Rhamondre Stevenson. He needs to be the centerpiece of the Patriots’ offense this week, no matter whether or not Maye clears concussion protocol or if New England turns to Brissett. Stevenson has hit 20-plus touches in three video games this season, placing up 17 or extra fantasy factors every time. Going through a Titans protection ranked twenty third in run cease win charge, Stevenson ought to see related quantity. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Patriots are 1-5 ATS of their previous six video games as underdogs. The Titans are 1-4 ATS as favorites for the reason that begin of final season. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Patriots 24, Titans 17
Moody’s decide: Patriots 20, Titans 18
Walder’s decide: Titans 19, Patriots 16
FPI prediction: TEN, 60.3% (by a median of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Pats QB Maye in concussion protocol … Being a first-time NFL head coach might be powerful; simply ask these 4
1 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: WSH -4 (44.5 O/U)
Commanders storyline to look at: Washington ranks second within the NFL in yards per run (5.2) and third in rush yards per sport (165.8). A number of the latter whole stems from quarterback Jayden Daniels, who averages 53 dashing yards per sport. However the Commanders’ working backs nonetheless common a mixed 5.2 per carry. In the meantime, the Giants’ run protection ranks final in yards allowed per carry (5.4) and twenty seventh in rush yards per sport (141.8). Washington can hit large cross performs with Daniels, however dealing with sturdy edge cross rushers, the Commanders will look to regulate the sport on the bottom. — John Keim
Giants storyline to look at: Giants rookie large receiver Malik Nabers is trying to bounce again from a sport during which he had two key drops in Pittsburgh. He’s particularly motivated towards a Washington staff that couldn’t cease him within the first assembly. Nabers had 10 catches for 127 yards and a landing in that matchup. He’s itching for one more large sport after two pedestrian performances coming off a concussion. — Jordan Raanan
Stat to know: The Giants are 0-4 at residence this season, averaging 7.8 factors per sport (fewest within the NFL). They haven’t began 0-5 at residence since 1974.
Daring prediction: The Commanders will break off a 20-plus-yard display screen play in some unspecified time in the future within the sport. Washington runs screens 6% of the time, the fourth-highest charge within the league, and the Giants’ protection ranks thirtieth in EPA allowed per display screen. — Walder
Accidents: Commanders | Giants
Fantasy X issue: Commanders large receiver Terry McLaurin. He has had 16 or extra fantasy factors in 5 of his previous six video games. He has traditionally carried out effectively towards the Giants, averaging 9.1 targets and 16.5 fantasy factors throughout 10 profession video games. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Unders are 4-0 in Giants residence video games this season. Overs are 4-0 in Commanders highway video games this season. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Commanders 30, Giants 23
Moody’s decide: Commanders 27, Giants 21
Walder’s decide: Commanders 30, Giants 14
FPI prediction: WSH, 65.5% (by a median of 5.8 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Inside Commanders’ wild Hail Mary to stun Bears … QB Jones ‘frustrated’ amid his, Giants’ struggles
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: NO -7 (43.5 O/U)
Saints storyline to look at: Derek Carr is predicted to start out after lacking the previous three video games due to an indirect damage, and Jake Haener will return to backing him up after the Saints went with rookie Spencer Rattler in Carr’s absence. The struggling Saints, who’ve misplaced six straight, have dropped to twenty first in offensive yards per sport (319.5) and final in defensive yard allowed (392.8) after a 2-0 begin that started with a thrashing of the Panthers in Week 1. They’ll have many of the offense again from that sport except for middle Erik McCoy (groin) and receiver Rashid Shaheed (knee). — Katherine Terrell
Panthers storyline to look at: Bryce Younger will begin once more at quarterback, however he didn’t fare effectively within the Panthers’ first sport towards the Saints. He was sacked 4 occasions and handed for under 161 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. However Carolina’s largest drawback is protection, significantly with Carr returning. Carr had three passing TDs in Week 1, and the Saints rushed for 180 yards towards a wholesome Carolina protection. The Panthers have misplaced a number of key defenders since and are giving up an NFL-worst 154.6 dashing yards per sport. — David Newton
Stat to know: Younger is 2-17 as a starter and can make his twentieth begin Sunday. With a loss, Younger would be a part of Steve DeBerg and Chris Weinke as the one quarterbacks since 1950 to lose 18 of their first 20 profession begins.
Daring prediction: Saints working again Alvin Kamara will rush for 100 or extra yards. Carolina can’t cease the run — it ranks thirty second in run cease win charge (25.9%) and twenty eighth in EPA allowed per designed carry (minus-2.91). After all, the Panthers can’t cease the cross both, however the Saints can get Kamara extra concerned after taking an early lead. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Saints large receiver Chris Olave. He scored 18.7 fantasy factors towards the Chargers in Week 8 — a giant aid for fantasy managers. Olave had simply 2.5 factors mixed in Weeks 5 and 6 after which missed Week 7 towards the Broncos. He’s positioned to keep up the constructive momentum. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Panthers are 1-7 towards the unfold this season, which is the worst ATS document within the NFL. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Saints 21, Panthers 14
Moody’s decide: Saints 30, Panthers 17
Walder’s decide: Saints 27, Panthers 12
FPI prediction: NO, 71.5% (by a median of 8.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Can Saints snap six-game freefall towards Panthers? … A uncommon feel-good story for Panthers in rookie UDFA WR Coker … Did Younger do sufficient to get one other begin for Panthers?
0:46
Chuba Hubbard’s fantasy outlook for Week 9
Discover Chuba Hubbard’s fantasy stats as he prepares to tackle the Saints in Week 9.
1 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: BAL -9.5 (46.5 O/U)
Broncos storyline to look at: The Broncos have their finest document since they had been 6-2 after eight video games within the 2016 season, however they’ve discovered prosperity towards a number of of essentially the most wobbly groups within the league. Three wins have come over groups with six losses (Jets, Saints and Raiders) to go along with a win over a now 1-7 Carolina. The Ravens may supply quarterback Bo Nix, who’s twenty seventh within the league in yards per completion (4.72) and twenty sixth in completion proportion, the chance for some large performs. Baltimore has surrendered 46 explosive performs (runs of no less than 10 yards and completions of no less than 20 yards). — Jeff Legwold
Ravens storyline to look at: The Ravens are 24-3 (.889), together with the playoffs, at residence towards rookie beginning quarterbacks in franchise historical past, which is the perfect residence win proportion by any staff since 1950. Nonetheless, Denver’s Nix hasn’t performed like a first-year NFL quarterback, going 5-1 in his previous six begins with eight touchdowns and one interception over that span. His 5 victories are essentially the most by a rookie quarterback in Broncos historical past, surpassing John Elway and Drew Lock, each of whom had 4. — Jamison Hensley
Stat to know: Ravens working again Derrick Henry has 9 straight video games with a landing, courting to final season. That’s the third-longest streak by a participant at age 30 or older in NFL historical past.
Daring prediction: Nix will document his first 300-yard passing sport … in a loss. Denver will attempt to throw on the Ravens, whose protection is far weaker towards the cross. The yardage can be there, however I concern it would principally be in catch-up mode. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Broncos large receiver Courtland Sutton. His fantasy manufacturing has swung like a pendulum this season. In Week 8, he noticed 11 targets and hit a season-high 17.1 fantasy factors towards the Panthers. Now, he’s up towards a Ravens protection that has allowed the third-most fantasy factors per sport to large receivers. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Overs are 7-1 in Ravens video games this season, which is the very best over proportion within the NFL. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Ravens 33, Broncos 24
Moody’s decide: Ravens 35, Broncos 24
Walder’s decide: Ravens 30, Broncos 20
FPI prediction: BAL, 76.6% (by a median of 10.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Nix, Payton discovering groove collectively for surging Broncos … Ravens’ defensive ‘funk’ is largest hurdle in championship hunt … Are the Broncos playoff contenders? 4 issues to show
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: PHI -7.5 (45.5 O/U)
Jaguars storyline to look at: As dangerous because the Jaguars have been defensively — they’re on tempo to permit the second-most yards (382.1) and factors (28) per sport in franchise historical past — they’ve been efficient offensively. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence has reduce down his turnovers (he has 5 after averaging 20 per season over his first three seasons), and so they’re averaging 5.8 yards per play, which might be the perfect mark in franchise historical past. The most important concern is their sluggish begins (simply 20 factors scored within the first quarter), which could not harm them this week as a result of the Eagles are the one staff within the NFL that hasn’t scored within the first quarter. — Mike DiRocco
Eagles storyline to look at: Quarterback Jalen Hurts has turn out to be way more environment friendly in latest weeks. After turning the ball over seven occasions over the Eagles’ first 4 video games — second most within the league on the time — he has zero giveaways previously three video games. Philadelphia is 3-0 over that stretch with a points-per-game differential of plus-16.3, in contrast with minus-2.5 throughout its 2-2 begin. — Tim McManus
Stat to know: Hurts has had 5 dashing touchdowns previously two video games, essentially the most by any quarterback in a two-game span since 1951. Since 1950, essentially the most dashing touchdowns by a passer over a three-game span is six (Cam Newton in 2011 and Johnny Lujack in 1950).
0:39
Why Jeff Saturday believes in Eagles as legit Tremendous Bowl contenders
Jeff Saturday explains why Jalen Hurts and the Eagles needs to be thought of Tremendous Bowl contenders.
Daring prediction: Eagles edge rusher Josh Sweat will document a cross rush win charge of 25% or increased. Sweat will face Walker Little, who changed left deal with Cam Robinson (since traded) final week. Traditionally, Little has not been nice. He has a profession 82% cross block win charge at deal with, which is effectively beneath common. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Jaguars tight finish Evan Engram. Broad receiver Christian Kirk is out for the season due to a damaged collarbone, and large receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (chest) is day-to-day. Which means Lawrence will doubtless lean on Engram. Final season, Engram averaged 10.2 targets, 8.3 receptions and 73.2 receiving yards per sport when Kirk was sidelined for six video games. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The final time the Jaguars closed as no less than seven-point underdogs was the 2022 divisional playoffs towards the Chiefs (plus-9.5). Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Eagles 34, Jaguars 18
Moody’s decide: Eagles 33, Jaguars 20
Walder’s decide: Eagles 27, Jaguars 20
FPI prediction: PHI, 68.1% (by a median of seven.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: With Kirk out, which Jaguars WR will step up? … Former Eagles coach Pederson helped usher Sirianni in as Philly coach … QB Hurts jokes about his mismatched cleats throughout Eagles-Bengals
4:05 p.m. ET | CBS | ESPN BET: ARI -1.5 (44.5 O/U)
Bears storyline to look at: Coach Matt Eberflus was mum when requested whether or not cornerback Tyrique Stevenson would begin towards Arizona or be benched after his antics on the remaining play in Washington contributed to an 18-15 loss for the Bears. Eberflus stated the second-year nook “has made a lot of plays for this group and for our defense and for our football team over the last couple of years, and he’s going to continue to do that.” Given the Bears are already coping with accidents to Jaquan Brisker (concussion) and Kyler Gordon (hamstring), changing one other starter within the lineup may not be within the playing cards Sunday. — Courtney Cronin
Cardinals storyline to look at: The Cardinals have lastly discovered some consistency. They’ve gained two in a row for the primary time since 2021 and have taken three out of 4. If they may proceed their run with a win Sunday, they’ll be in a main place going into subsequent week’s sport towards the Jets, which is their final earlier than their bye week. — Josh Weinfuss
Stat to know: The Bears have the toughest remaining schedule within the NFL, in response to ESPN Analytics. After their subsequent two video games towards Arizona and New England, they’ll play eight straight contests towards groups with a present document of .500 or higher.
Daring prediction: Bears tight finish Cole Kmet will has 75-plus receiving yards. He’ll bounce again from his one-reception efficiency final week as Arizona permits targets to tight ends on 21% of dropbacks, the fourth-highest charge within the league. Plus, Arizona struggles towards the cross typically. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Cardinals working again James Conner. He’s in an excellent spot this week. Arizona’s offensive line has been spectacular, rating ninth in run block win charge, whereas the Bears are twenty second in run cease win charge (72.8%). Conner has averaged 14.2 fantasy factors per sport. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray is 10-16 ATS in his profession as a favourite (6-12 ATS as residence favourite). Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Cardinals 21, Bears 18
Moody’s decide: Cardinals 20, Bears 17
Walder’s decide: Cardinals 24, Bears 23
FPI prediction: CHI, 49.9% (by a median of 0.0 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Bears stand by criticism however goal to maintain it ‘in-house’ … How Cardinals’ McBride is ascending right into a top-tier TE … Why Cardinals’ come-from-behind win vs. Dolphins could be wanted spark
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: DET -3.5 (48.5 O/U)
Lions storyline to look at: At 6-1 and with veteran quarterback Jared Goff competing at an MVP degree, the Lions are off to their finest begin since 1956. Detroit has gained its previous two video games at Lambeau Subject, and Goff has a uncommon alternative to match former Packers star Aaron Rodgers‘ NFL-record of six straight video games with a number of passing touchdowns and a 70% completion charge. — Eric Woodyard
Packers storyline to look at: How a lot the Packers run the ball will depend on whether or not it’s Jordan Love (groin) or Malik Willis at quarterback. Within the two video games Willis began earlier this season whereas Love was out due to a knee damage, the Packers known as designed runs on 68% of the snaps in contrast with 41% in Love’s six begins, in response to ESPN Analysis. Both manner, count on working again Josh Jacobs to be exhausting to deal with. He has the second-most dashing yards after contact within the NFL this season, behind solely the Ravens’ Derrick Henry. — Rob Demovsky
Stat to know: Goff has accomplished 83% of his passes over the previous 5 video games, which is the very best proportion throughout a five-game span in NFL historical past (minimal of fifty makes an attempt).
Daring prediction: Jacobs is not going to catch a single cross. The Lions have allowed working again receptions on simply 8% of opponent dropbacks, the bottom charge within the league. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Goff. He’s averaging 27.0 cross makes an attempt and 17.2 fantasy factors per sport this season. Goff has been particularly efficient on the highway, with 19.8 fantasy factors per sport. And with the Packers doubtlessly lacking nook Jaire Alexander (knee) and security Evan Williams (hamstring), Goff is ready up for achievement. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Packers are 22-8 ATS as underdogs underneath coach Matt LaFleur. They’re additionally 6-1 outright and ATS as residence underdogs with him. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Lions 37, Packers 26
Moody’s decide: Packers 31, Lions 26
Walder’s decide: Lions 34, Packers 26
FPI prediction: DET, 59.7% (by a median of 4.2 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Lions’ offense is on an all-time run … For Packers to beat Lions, their offense should step up … Report: Prosecutors reviewing warrant request for Lions’ Williams
0:44
Jameson Williams suspended 2 video games by NFL
Adam Schefter provides particulars on the NFL’s suspension of Lions WR Jameson Williams for violating the performance-enhancing substances coverage.
4:25 p.m. ET | FOX | ESPN BET: LAR -1.5 (48.5 O/U)
Rams storyline to look at: Working again Kyren Williams ranks second within the NFL with 10 scrimmage touchdowns this season. With two extra touchdowns Sunday, Williams can turn out to be the fourth participant in Rams historical past with 12 or extra touchdowns by eight video games of a season, in response to ESPN Analysis. Williams has scored no less than two touchdowns in a sport twice this season. — Sarah Barshop
Seahawks storyline to look at: The Seahawks are “optimistic” — in coach Mike Macdonald’s phrases — that DK Metcalf can be again after lacking final week’s sport due to an MCL sprain. The star receiver’s absence versus Buffalo was evident in Seattle’s lack of ability to generate an offensive play of longer than 20 yards for the primary time since 2017. Rams cornerback and one-time Seahawk Ahkello Witherspoon bought underneath Metcalf’s pores and skin final season, which might add intrigue to that matchup. — Brady Henderson
Stat to know: Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith had zero passing touchdowns in Week 8. He has not had back-to-back begins and not using a passing landing since 2014 with the Jets.
Daring prediction: The Rams will maintain their opponent to underneath 4.0 yards per carry for the second time this season. There’s a weak-on-weak matchup on the bottom right here with the Seahawks rating twenty ninth in EPA per designed carry and the Rams rating twenty ninth in EPA allowed per designed carry. One thing has to offer, and my guess is it breaks the Rams’ manner. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford. He simply put up a season-high 24.7 fantasy factors towards the Vikings in Week 8, with receivers Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp as his prime targets. This week’s matchup with Seattle stands out with one of many highest level totals on the slate. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Seahawks are 2-6 ATS this season, whereas the Rams are 2-5 ATS. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Seahawks 28, Rams 24
Moody’s decide: Rams 26, Seahawks 23
Walder’s decide: Rams 20, Seahawks 17
FPI prediction: LAR, 50.3% (by a median of 0.1 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Rams’ Kupp scores in return; McVay expects WR to remain … Who will win the NFC West? It’s a four-team race
8:20 p.m. ET | NBC/Peacock | ESPN BET: MIN -5 (46.5 O/U)
Colts storyline to look at: With QB Joe Flacco set to take over, search for an attention-grabbing subplot in how he offers with the Vikings’ heavy blitz package deal. Minnesota blitzes on the highest charge within the NFL this season (42%), however Flacco leads all QBs since 2023 in touchdowns per cross try (13.3%) and yards per completion (14.8) when blitzed. Flacco additionally has the fourth-lowest sack charge (5.1%) towards the blitz. — Stephen Holder
Vikings storyline to look at: The Vikings are anticipated to get tight finish T.J. Hockenson again onto the sector now that he has recovered from a torn ACL and MCL in his proper knee. That can doubtless immediate a redistribution of targets among the many staff’s cross catchers, a shift that ought to profit the offense even when it in the end takes a couple of targets away from large receiver Justin Jefferson. So far, Jefferson has 34.9% of quarterback Sam Darnold‘s targets, the second-highest proportion by any participant by seven video games previously 10 seasons. — Kevin Seifert
Stat to know: ESPN Analytics provides Indianapolis a 64% likelihood to make the playoffs with Flacco, in contrast with a 46% likelihood with Richardson.
2:15
Schefter: Colts benching Richardson ‘a seismic move on a lot of levels’
Adam Schefter joins Pat McAfee and stories on the Colts’ choice to bench Anthony Richardson for Joe Flacco.
Daring prediction: Colts large receiver Adonai Mitchell will document 50-plus receiving yards for the primary time. With Flacco underneath middle, the offense will doubtless be extra dependable. Mitchell hasn’t produced large numbers but, however there are good indicators. He ranks fourth in open rating with an 81. — Walder
Fantasy X issue: Colts large receiver Josh Downs. With Flacco stepping in, the Colts’ passing sport is trending up. His accuracy will profit the Colts’ receivers. Downs and Flacco have already proven sturdy chemistry, and the receiver has cleared 16 fantasy factors in 4 of his previous 5 video games. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: The Vikings are 0-2 outright and ATS of their previous two video games (each as favorites). They began the yr 5-0 outright and ATS. Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Colts 28, Vikings 26
Moody’s decide: Vikings 31, Colts 24
Walder’s decide: Vikings 29, Colts 14
FPI prediction: MIN, 53.9% (by a median of 1.4 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Going to Flacco over Richardson helps Colts win now, coach says … Vikings hope Hockenson’s return will open up offense … Win-now Colts bench QB Richardson for Flacco
8:15 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC | ESPN BET: KC -8.5 (45.5 O/U)
Buccaneers storyline to look at: With out large receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, quarterback Baker Mayfield leaned closely on tight finish Cade Otton final week. The Bucs should do it once more, with seemingly the one actual gap within the Chiefs’ protection being that they’re giving up a median of 80.86 yards to opposing tight ends — essentially the most of any staff within the league. Does “National Tight Ends Day” carry over for one more week? — Jenna Laine
Chiefs storyline to look at: The Chiefs have held 5 of their seven opponents underneath their season common in scoring, together with two within the NFL’s prime 10 in factors. However Mayfield and the Bucs, fourth in scoring at greater than 29 factors per sport, current Kansas Metropolis’s largest problem. The Chiefs had their best pass-rushing sport of the season final week towards the Raiders with 5 sacks, and so they added edge rusher Joshua Uche in a commerce with the Patriots this week. — Adam Teicher
Stat to know: The Buccaneers are permitting 26.6 factors (twenty eighth within the NFL) and 387 whole yards (thirtieth) per sport.
Daring prediction: The Chiefs will enable no a couple of landing to the Bucs. I’ve a tough time seeing Tampa Bay’s offense succeed with out Evans and Godwin. Its depth receivers should beat press protection, however the Chiefs do this greater than every other staff within the league at outdoors nook. — Walder
Accidents: Buccaneers | Chiefs
Fantasy X issue: Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. He completed with a season-high 18.1 fantasy factors towards the Raiders in Week 8. No protection this season permits extra fantasy factors per sport than the Buccaneers. I imagine Mahomes can preserve his momentum going towards Tampa Bay. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody
Betting nugget: Mahomes is 22-28 ATS in his profession when laying no less than seven factors (0-2 ATS this season). Learn extra.
Kahler’s decide: Buccaneers 27, Chiefs 24
Moody’s decide: Chiefs 28, Buccaneers 20
Walder’s decide: Chiefs 27, Buccaneers 13
FPI prediction: KC, 63.0% (by a median of 5.3 factors)
Matchup must-reads: Godwin says playoff return ‘best-case scenario’ … Why the Chiefs are the brand new Patriots
