The NFL reaches its midpoint this week as Week 9 is officially upon us. While there is still plenty of football until the playoffs, conversations about positioning are already starting. From gambling to survivor leagues, looking for good value in matchups early in the week could be imperative. Here are some predictions on Week 9 winners and losers.
Winners
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys take on the Arizona Cardinals at home in what should be almost a must-win spot. Dallas has struggled through the first half of the season, and the defense has been a large part of the blame. The Cardinals, meanwhile, are battered with injuries and have struggled with turnovers. The Cowboys should get the job done behind their high-powered offense.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are favored by almost 14 against a Tennessee Titans team that is clearly in the middle of a rebuild. Quarterback Justin Herbert looks like he is playing better, and the Chargers are coming off a statement win against the Vikings. The Chargers should get going early with a mediocre Titans secondary.
Denver Broncos
The Broncos have been somewhat under the radar, quietly compiling a 6-2 record behind strong play on both sides of the ball. Although Vegas doesn’t seem to be buying in, the Broncos will head into Houston as slight underdogs vs the struggling Texans. If Bo Nix can continue his strong play and the Broncos’ defense can terrorize CJ Stroud, it should be a relatively easy win. The matchup on paper favors the Broncos way too much for it not to be on the winners’ list.
Losers
Carolina Panthers
Unfortunately for Carolina fans, it doesn’t get much easier this week against the Green Bay Packers. Outside of a little hiccup against the Browns, the Packers have been the most dominant team in the league, and this game will be in Lambeau. Jordan Love and the Packers should have an easy way through a Panthers team that is still finding its identity.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons haven’t been able to establish an offensive rhythm, and Michael Penix Jr. not being able to play last week didn’t help. The Falcons also have to play Drake Maye, who is playing like one of the best QBs in the NFL right now. The Patriots are expected to make things difficult by committing to the run; without it, the Falcons should struggle in Week 9.
Key Matchups
Colts Offense vs Steelers Pressure
The Colts have barely punted the ball all year, now enter Mike Tomlinson. Pittsburgh can get pressure on the QB, and it could be interesting to see how Daniel Jones reacts.
Chiefs Offense vs Bills Secondary
Kansas City has seemingly rediscovered its offense as soon as it got healthy. They have the task of getting through a Bills defense that has limited big plays all year. Mahomes could have a signature game, or the Bills could pull away in the conference race; either way, this should be the game of the week.
Final Thoughts
Week 9 is set for fireworks as there are only 3 matchups all weekend with double-digit spreads. The renewed Bills-Chiefs rivalry could be the game of the week, although there are plenty of early games that could potentially steal the show. Expect the contenders to start to separate themselves from the rest as November football is officially upon the NFL.
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