NFL Week 9 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy ideas

The Week 9 NFL schedule for the 2025 season brings some spooky matchups this Halloween weekend.

Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen face one another once more for what's anticipated to be one other thriller. The Vikings and Lions will sq. off in an NFC North battle, and Saints rookie QB Tyler Shough will make his regular-season debut in opposition to the Rams.

Now we have you coated with all the pieces it is advisable to know. Our NFL Nation reporters take you contained in the locker room with the perfect factor they heard this week, and ESPN Analysis gives a key stat to know and a betting nugget for every contest. Plus, analytics author Seth Walder makes a daring prediction for every matchup, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody shares fantasy soccer intel. We even have Soccer Energy Index (FPI) matchup high quality rankings (out of 100) and sport projections, and three analysts — Pamela Maldonado, Moody and Walder — give us remaining rating picks for each sport.

Let's get into the total Week 9 slate, which culminates with the “Monday Night time Soccer” matchup between the Cardinals and Cowboys on ESPN. (Sport instances are Sunday except in any other case famous.)

Bounce to a matchup:
DEN-HOU | IND-PIT | MIN-DET
CAR-GB | SF-NYG | CHI-CIN
ATL-NE | LAC-TEN | NO-LAR
JAX-LV | KC-BUF | SEA-WSH
ARI-DAL

Thursday: BAL 28, MIA 6
Bye: CLE, NYJ, PHI, TB

1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup ranking: 70.5/100
ESPN BET: HOU -1.5 (39.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Broncos: Denver will likely be with out Pat Surtain II (left pectoral pressure) beginning this week. For a staff that performs essentially the most man-to-man protection within the league — the Broncos are the one staff that performs not less than 60% of protection snaps in man — lacking the league's greatest protection participant is important. The Broncos might need to select and select how aggressively they pursue QB C.J. Stroud or play extra zone than they've all season. It was a troublesome steadiness for Denver the final time it confronted Stroud (in 2023), when he had 274 passing yards on 16 completions however was sacked 5 instances. — Jeff Legwold

What we're listening to on the Texans: The Broncos lead the NFL in sacks (36) whereas the Texans' offensive line ranks twenty eighth in cross block win price (55.1%). One group is perceived as a energy, and the opposite group is slowly enhancing. Final week, Houston gave up zero sacks for the primary time this season, so the hope is the road can carry that momentum in opposition to one of many NFL's prime defenses. — DJ Bien-Aime

Stat to know: The Texans have allowed 103 factors by the primary seven video games of the season, the fewest in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Broncos CB Riley Moss will document a 12% goal price or decrease. Moss' season common is eighteen%, however that quantity was inflated by enjoying reverse Surtain. Even when Surtain was reverse him, Moss allowed 1.1 yards per protection snap this season, common for an out of doors CB. — Walder

Accidents: Broncos | Texans

Fantasy nugget: Some fantasy managers may be pressured to depend on Broncos QB Bo Nix and WR Courtland Sutton this week with 4 groups on bye, however it's essential to set sensible expectations, given the matchup. The Texans' protection has allowed the fewest fantasy factors per sport to QBs and the fourth fewest to WRs. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Texans are 1-4 ATS (in opposition to the unfold) in opposition to groups with successful information this season. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Texans 23, Broncos 20
Moody's choose: Broncos 20, Texans 17
Walder's choose: Broncos 23, Texans 17
FPI prediction: HOU, 50.1% (by a mean of 0.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: 4 methods Surtain's absence impacts the Broncos' protection … Texans QB Stroud says he is ‘a prime man' when at his greatest … Why the Broncos can lean on the run with Dobbins, Harvey

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup ranking: 67.5/100
ESPN BET: IND -3.5 (50.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Colts: The Colts have been thriving despite an injury-plagued protection that's beginning to present some cracks. Going through the Aaron Rodgers-led Steelers offense might be a revealing second. Indianapolis has the league's No. 1 offense and has performed with sizable leads all season, and that has resulted within the protection giving up tons of yardage. The Colts rank twenty fourth in yards allowed per sport (345.1) and thirtieth in third-down protection. They've the firepower to win a possible shootout, however they're going to have to make constant defensive stops. — Stephen Holder

What we're listening to on the Steelers: They obtained torched by Packers TE Tucker Kraft, and the task would not get simpler this week as they face rookie TE Tyler Warren. Not solely does Warren lead all tight ends with 492 yards, however the Steelers will likely be with out hard-hitting S DeShon Elliott (knee). To assist fill Elliott's sneakers, the Steelers traded for Patriots S Kyle Dugger, however he may not be prepared to completely take over Elliott's position on brief discover. “It is solely however one DeShon, and you do not need all people to be DeShon. You need DeShon to be DeShon,” CB Darius Slay stated. “You need whoever enjoying his place to be them. So, we simply exit right here and simply compete, play collectively.” — Brooke Pryor

Stat to know: Colts RB Jonathan Taylor has scored 14 touchdowns this season, which is the same as or greater than 5 NFL groups (Browns, Saints, Falcons, Raiders and Titans) to this point. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Steelers RB Jaylen Warren will document underneath 4.0 yards per carry for the primary time since Week 3. The Steelers run inside zone 30% of the time, third most within the NFL. In the meantime, the Colts are permitting simply 2.3 yards per inside zone run this season, which ranks first. — Walder

Accidents: Colts | Steelers

Fantasy nugget: Steelers WR DK Metcalf and Colts WR Michael Pittman Jr. each have favorable matchups this week. Metcalf has scored 16 or extra fantasy factors in two of his previous three video games whereas averaging seven targets per contest. Pittman has gotten 9 targets and topped 20 fantasy factors in every of his previous two outings. Each receivers face defenses that rank inside the highest 5 of fantasy factors allowed per sport to wideouts. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Colts are 6-2 ATS, tied with the Patriots for the perfect document within the NFL. Indianapolis is 4-1 ATS as a favourite and 6-0 ATS in convention play. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Colts 30, Steelers 27
Moody's choose: Colts 35, Steelers 28
Walder's choose: Colts 24, Steelers 20
FPI prediction: IND, 57.5% (by a mean of three.1 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Tomlin backs Austin amid Steelers' defensive woes

1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup ranking: 60.3/100
ESPN BET: DET -9.5 (48.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Vikings: The Lions' offense has largely dominated Minnesota, scoring not less than 30 factors previously 4 matchups. Although most defenses got down to cease the run first in opposition to Detroit, which ranks tenth in win likelihood added on speeding performs, the Vikings' actual antagonist has been QB Jared Goff. In these 4 video games, Goff has an 80.6 QBR, having accomplished 78.5% of his passes for 1,020 yards, 6 touchdowns and a pair of interceptions. The Vikings should reverse these developments Sunday. — Kevin Seifert

What we're listening to on the Lions: Edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson will face off in opposition to his faculty teammate QB J.J. McCarthy, a matchup Hutchinson described as being “thrilling” due to their sturdy relationship. Hutchinson and McCarthy performed at Michigan in 2021, after they received a Huge Ten championship and dreamed of reaching this level of their careers. Now, they'll compete for the primary time within the NFL. “I believe I texted him when he obtained drafted, telling him, ‘I am going to roll off slightly bit on the top' and never attempt to … you understand,” Hutchinson stated, smiling. “However it'll be enjoyable.” — Eric Woodyard

Stat to know: The Vikings are the one NFL staff with a number of sacks in each sport this season. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Goff will document a QBR underneath 50. Minnesota's protection hasn't been the identical this season because it was within the latest previous. However it's a zone-heavy staff, and the Lions have extreme man-zone splits, averaging 0.44 EPA per dropback versus man and 0.09 versus zone. — Walder

Accidents: Vikings | Lions

Fantasy nugget: Lions RB Amon-Ra St. Brown and Goff ought to shine at residence. Goff has averaged 16.8 fantasy factors per sport this season — giving him a dependable ground — however he has been even higher at residence, with a mean of 20.1 factors per sport. The Vikings' protection gave up massive fantasy performances to Chargers QB Justin Herbert (25.2) and Eagles QB Jalen Hurts (24.0) in every of its previous two outings. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Minnesota is 14-7 ATS on the street since 2023. All 4 Vikings street video games this season have gone over the entire. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Lions 30, Vikings 17
Moody's choose: Lions 34, Vikings 17
Walder's choose: Vikings 23, Lions 21
FPI prediction: DET, 74.9% (by a mean of 10.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: How the NFL shut down a discipline aim controversy … What Hutchinson's extension means, and which cross rusher is getting paid subsequent … Lions OC Morton feels he ‘failed' WR Williams, eyes fixes

1 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup ranking: 55.8/100
ESPN BET: GB -13.5 (44.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Panthers: QB Bryce Younger seems to be headed again to the beginning lineup after lacking this previous Sunday's sport due to a excessive ankle sprain, however issues may look totally different for the offense. Coach Dave Canales strongly prompt he'll give RB Rico Dowdle a heavier workload and ditch the alternating sequence with Chuba Hubbard, calling what Dowdle has carried out “wonderful.” Working in opposition to the Packers, who've the league's third-best rush protection, will likely be key to protecting the strain off Younger to hold the offense. — David Newton

What we're listening to on the Packers: QB Jordan Love was on the most popular streak of his profession this previous Sunday, when he accomplished 20 straight passes. “I knew it was going nicely,” coach Matt LaFleur stated. “However I assume within the second, I did not understand it was going that nicely.” Love's begin to this season — 13 touchdowns, 2 interceptions and a 70.9% completion price — is harking back to his eight-game stretch to complete the 2023 season (with 18 touchdowns and only one interception). “Clearly, when your quarterback is enjoying actually good soccer, it is good for everyone,” LaFleur stated. — Rob Demovsky

Stat to know: The Packers have solely 4 takeaways this season, which is tied with the Ravens for the second fewest within the NFL. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Packers WR Christian Watson will document one other 85-plus-receiving-yard sport. Watson, who returned final week from a torn ACL, managed 85 yards on simply 23 routes. If he will get a goal, there's at all times an ideal likelihood it's going to be an enormous acquire. Final week, 52% of his routes have been verticals. — Walder

Accidents: Panthers | Packers

Fantasy nugget: Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan completed with a season-high seven receptions and tied his season excessive with 10 targets final week. He has averaged 12.5 fantasy factors per sport, however his ceiling may rise in opposition to a Packers protection that has struggled in opposition to exterior receivers over the previous month. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Panthers are 12-4 ATS of their previous 16 video games as underdogs. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Packers 27, Panthers 19
Moody's choose: Packers 28, Panthers 17
Walder's choose: Packers 30, Panthers 9
FPI prediction: GB, 77.1% (by a mean of 11.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Panthers DE Brown has a cheerful place: using his tractor … Packers WR Watson comes up massive in return from torn ACL

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup ranking: 55.4/100
ESPN BET: SF -2.5 (48.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the 49ers: The 49ers are averaging simply 20 factors per sport, their lowest mark by eight video games since coach Kyle Shanahan's first season (2017). This week, they face a Giants protection that has allowed 215 factors, its most in a gap eight-game stretch since 2019. For the 49ers to benefit from that, they'll want their offensive line to guard higher than it did in opposition to Houston. “[They're] comparable within the reality they've an elite line of defense, pretty much as good as there's from the 5 rushers that they get on the sphere on the identical time and the depth they've behind them,” Shanahan stated. “[They are] pretty much as good because it will get from a cross rush standpoint.” — Nick Wagoner

What we're listening to on the Giants: The Giants have to maneuver ahead with out rookie RB Cam Skattebo, who's out for the season due to a dislocated ankle and fractured tibia. “I imply, different guys simply sort of have to select it up,” QB Jaxson Dart stated. That begins with second-year RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. and extends to veterans equivalent to WR Darius Slayton. New York will want some playmakers to step up in opposition to San Francisco's top-10 scoring protection. — Jordan Raanan

Stat to know: The 49ers are second within the NFL in passing yards per sport this season (259.3), trailing solely the Cowboys. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Giants WR Wan'dale Robinson will document seven or extra receptions. San Francisco nickelback Upton Stout is permitting 1.5 yards per protection snap, essentially the most amongst all slot corners with not less than 100 protection snaps. Stout has a shoulder problem, and if he can't go, then Robinson would face a fill-in. Both means, he is obtained matchup. — Walder

Accidents: 49ers | Giants

Fantasy nugget: Tracy ought to inherit a big share of Skattebo's workload. Accidents to Fred Warner (ankle) and Nick Bosa (knee) have gutted the 49ers' protection, leaving the unit final in strain price and fighting tackling, protection and consistency. Tracy and the Giants' offense ought to capitalize on that weak spot. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Because the begin of final season, overs are 11-1 in 49ers video games after a loss. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: 49ers 34, Giants 29
Moody's choose: 49ers 23, Giants 21
Walder's choose: Giants 31, 49ers 27
FPI prediction: NYG, 56.2% (by a mean of two.5 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Are the 49ers seeking to enhance forward of the commerce deadline? … Skattebo's damage: What it means for RB, Giants and their future … Patriots commerce DE White to 49ers

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup ranking: 48.9/100
ESPN BET: CHI -2.5 (51.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Bears: The important thing for the Bears' offense will likely be changing on pink zone alternatives, which has been a battle since Week 3. Chicago has the NFL's second-lowest pink zone TD proportion (36.8%) and scored a league-low 3.9 factors per pink zone drive in that span. Going in opposition to a Cincinnati staff that ranks thirtieth in pink zone protection (70.3% TD price) may assist the Bears break by. “We place a number of onus on with the ability to run the ball down there,” Bears coach Ben Johnson stated. “I believed we may have carried out slightly bit higher inside the ten [at Baltimore]. We had some destructive performs that definitely did not assist the trigger. I be ok with the plan that we put into place.” — Courtney Cronin

What we're listening to on the Bengals: If QB Joe Flacco (shoulder) cannot go Sunday, this might be the final word take a look at for Jake Browning, who has eight interceptions this season. The Bears lead the league in interceptions (11) and turnover margin. Bengals offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher stated, “We have simply obtained to play each down with a transparent plan as to what you are going to do with the soccer and know your keys and play with imaginative and prescient, do not guess, and make accountable choices.” — Ben Child

Stat to know: The Bengals are permitting an NFL-worst 31.6 factors per sport this season and are in search of to keep away from permitting 30-plus factors in three straight video games. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Bears RB D'Andre Swift will document 100-plus speeding yards for the third time in 4 video games. Chicago runs exterior zone on 50% of its designed runs, the third-highest price within the NFL. And the Bengals are permitting 5.9 yards per carry in opposition to exterior zone, additionally third most. — Walder

Accidents: Bears | Bengals

Fantasy nugget: Bengals RB Chase Brown erupted for 25.5 fantasy factors on 15 touches in Week 8, whereas fellow RB Samaje Perine added 17.0 on 10 touches. With Flacco probably out, Cincinnati may lean on its backs in opposition to a Bears protection that ranks twenty fifth in run cease win price (28.5%) and permits the sixth-most speeding yards per sport (143.3). See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Overs are 4-0 in Bengals residence video games and Bears street video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Bears 20, Bengals 13
Moody's choose: Bengals 35, Bears 31
Walder's choose: Bears 30, Bengals 16
FPI prediction: CHI, 54.6% (by a mean of 1.7 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Bears add S Gardner-Johnson to banged-up secondary … QB Flacco not training, unsure for Bengals-Bears

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup ranking: 42.2/100
ESPN BET: NE -5.5 (44.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Falcons: Miami's Tua Tagovailoa was the primary QB to throw for over 200 yards in opposition to the Falcons' protection. Now, Atlanta has the duty of containing QB Drake Maye, whom defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich known as a “youthful Josh Allen.” Count on continued aggression from a protection that leads the league in blitz price on opposing dropbacks (47.8%) and has allowed the fewest passing yards per sport (149.1). — Marc Raimondi

What we're listening to on the Patriots: Beginning RB Rhamondre Stevenson (toe) did not observe Wednesday or Thursday, highlighting potential depth issues on the place as rookie TreVeyon Henderson and former observe squad participant Terrell Jennings (2024 undrafted free agent) are subsequent up. The staff additionally added three RBs to the observe squad final week (D'Ernest Johnson, Jonathan Ward and Rushawn Baker). Maye famous the Falcons' stingy cross protection and blitz-heavy strategy, and contemplating Stevenson can also be the Patriots' most dependable RB in cross safety, whether or not he can play (team-high 62% of offensive snaps) is a prime storyline. — Mike Reiss

Stat to know: Patriots WR Kayshon Boutte has a receiving landing in three straight video games. He may grow to be the third Patriots participant previously 10 seasons with a receiving rating in 4 straight video games. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Maye will lead the league in QBR this week. He has been nice in 2025, however his numbers have been significantly distinctive in opposition to man protection (89.1 QBR). Now, he faces the Falcons, who play man protection 58% of the time, which is second most within the NFL. — Walder

Accidents: Falcons | Patriots

Fantasy nugget: Falcons TE Kyle Pitts Sr. has piled up 19 targets over his previous two video games and scored not less than 13 fantasy factors in every. Although the Patriots' protection is formidable, it permits the fifth-most fantasy factors per sport to tight ends. The unit additionally simply gave up massive performances to Browns TEs David Njoku (13.7) and Harold Fannin Jr. (18.4). See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Falcons are 6-14 ATS of their previous 20 video games as an underdog. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Patriots 30, Falcons 10
Moody's choose: Patriots 24, Falcons 21  
Walder's choose: Patriots 31, Falcons 20
FPI prediction: NE, 64.9% (by a mean of 5.8 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Falcons be ok with QB Penix returning vs. Patriots … Why did the 6-2 Patriots commerce away two former starters? … Patriots QB Maye, teammates maintain Halloween get together for most cancers sufferers

1 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup ranking: 39.5/100
ESPN BET: LAC -9.5 (43.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Chargers: Sunday will likely be considerably of a revenge sport for a lot of within the Chargers' locker room, as seven gamers frolicked in Tennessee. That group contains cornerstones of their protection, DT Teair Tart and S Elijah Molden. There's additionally edge rusher Bud Dupree, who signed a five-year, $85 million take care of the Titans in 2021. Molden, who was traded for a seventh-round choose after coaching camp final season, stated he would not have added motivation enjoying the Titans. “The transfer was nice for me. So, it is virtually like, ‘Thanks,'” he stated whereas laughing. — Kris Rhim

What we're listening to on the Titans: The Titans' secondary (particularly, cornerback) has been stripped down resulting from buying and selling starters Jarvis Brownlee Jr. final month and Roger McCreary earlier this week, along with putting L'Jarius Sneed (quad) on injured reserve. Defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson could have his arms full going in opposition to Justin Herbert, the NFL passing yards chief (2,140). — Turron Davenport

Stat to know: The Titans are in search of to keep away from shedding 4 straight video games by double digits for the primary time because the franchise relocated to Tennessee forward of the 1997 season. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Chargers edge Tuli Tuipulotu will document two or extra sacks. He has recorded six sacks this season, and everybody has a greater likelihood of a multi-sack day when dealing with QB Cam Ward and his 11% sack price. — Walder

Accidents: Chargers | Titans

Fantasy nugget: Chargers RB Kimani Vidal has been excellent since taking on. He has accrued 21 or extra touches in two of his previous three video games and scored not less than 19 fantasy factors in each. Vidal is in one other good spot this week. The Chargers are heavy favorites, which may create optimistic sport move, and Tennessee's protection permits the third-most fantasy factors per sport to backs. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Titans are 1-6 ATS of their previous seven video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Chargers 28, Titans 14
Moody's choose: Chargers 33, Titans 17
Walder's choose: Chargers 31, Titans 12
FPI prediction: LAC, 74% (by a mean of 9.9 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Titans QB Ward leans on Manning by turnover points … Rams purchase CB McCreary from Titans with draft choose swap

4:05 p.m. ET | Fox | Matchup ranking: 46.3/100
ESPN BET: LAR -14.5 (43.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Saints: Rookie QB Tyler Shough will make his first begin of the season. Coach Kellen Moore stated he did not wish to flip-flop quarterbacks, and expects Shough to be the quarterback for the remainder of the season. Spencer Rattler, who was benched halfway by this previous Sunday's sport, would be the backup. — Katherine Terrell

What we're listening to on the Rams: They've had back-to-back video games with 4 or extra sacks. In line with ESPN Analysis, one other such sport would tie their longest streak with 4 or extra sacks since Sean McVay took over in 2017. McVay pointed to the group's effectivity on early downs. “That is among the finest defenses that I've ever been round or gone in opposition to,” he stated. — Sarah Barshop

Stat to know: Saints RB Alvin Kamara had a season-low 21 speeding yards in opposition to the Bucs final week. He has failed to succeed in 40 speeding yards in every of the previous 4 video games, which is tied for the longest streak of his profession (2017, rookie season). — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Rams CB Darious Williams will document an interception. Not solely is he dealing with Shough, however Williams is having a robust season with 0.6 yards per protection snap (per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats), seventh greatest amongst exterior corners with not less than 100 protection snaps. — Walder

Accidents: Saints | Rams

Fantasy nugget: Rams QB Matthew Stafford was on a sizzling streak earlier than the Week 8 bye, scoring not less than 25 fantasy factors in three of his earlier 4 video games. The stage is ready for Stafford and WRs Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to ship massive performances in opposition to a Saints protection that has allowed 14 landing passes, the sixth most within the league. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Saints are 2-6 ATS this season, tied for the worst document within the NFL. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Rams 27, Saints 18
Moody's choose: Rams 31, Saints 16
Walder's choose: Rams 29, Saints 10
FPI prediction: LAR, 86% (by a mean of 16.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Why the Saints are turning to QB Shough now … Rams add CB depth with McCreary — however in any other case maintain sturdy … Saints QB1 or not, Shough believes in his NFL future

4:05 p.m. ET | FOX | Matchup ranking: 30.8/100
ESPN BET: JAX -2.5 (44.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Jaguars: To snap a two-game shedding streak, coach Liam Coen careworn the significance of being balanced offensively. The Jaguars threw 90 passes and ran it 38 instances mixed in losses to the Seahawks and Rams, a considerably increased pass-run break up than the primary 5 video games, after they averaged 37 passes and 28 runs. “I have to name extra runs,” Coen stated earlier within the week. What additionally would assistance is the Jaguars reducing down on penalties to keep away from getting behind the sticks (they lead the league with 48 offensive penalties and 37 accepted offensive penalties). — Michael DiRocco

What we're listening to on the Raiders: Las Vegas coach Pete Carroll is an enormous fan of Jaguars WR/CB Travis Hunter. On Wednesday, Carroll known as Hunter a savvy soccer participant who's aggressive in protection. Regardless that Carroll knew the Raiders did not suppose Hunter would fall to the No. 6 choose, he was impressed by the Heisman Trophy winner through the interview course of. “I might have cherished to have had the possibility to [play Hunter both ways],” Carroll stated. “That is what we talked about within the interview, and he was proper on it so far as the mentality that it will take to do one thing like that.” — Ryan McFadden

Stat to know: The Raiders have been held to fewer than 30 factors in 27 consecutive video games. That is the longest lively streak within the NFL and third-longest streak in franchise historical past. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Jaguars CB Greg Newsome II will permit a landing in protection. Newsome has performed simply 24 protection snaps in two video games as a Jaguar since his commerce from the Browns, however he has allowed 3.9 yards per protection snap and two touchdowns in that span. — Walder

Accidents: Jaguars | Raiders

Fantasy nugget: Hunter set season highs in targets (14), receptions (eight) and fantasy factors (24.1) earlier than the bye. The rookie has an ideal likelihood to maintain that momentum going. Brian Thomas Jr. is proscribed due to a shoulder damage, and the Raiders' protection is permitting the fourth-most fantasy factors per sport to wideouts. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Raiders are 1-5 ATS of their previous six video games, together with 0-4 ATS as an underdog in that span. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Jaguars 27, Raiders 21
Moody's choose: Jaguars 27, Raiders 19
Walder's choose: Jaguars 24, Raiders 20
FPI prediction: JAX, 54.6% (by a mean of two.4 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Three issues the Jaguars have to give attention to coming into Week 9 … TE Bowers ‘able to roll' after damage absence … Coen: Jaguars not buying and selling WR Thomas … What to make of 2-5 Raiders

4:25 p.m. ET | CBS | Matchup ranking: 89/100
ESPN BET: KC -2.5 (52.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Chiefs: One purpose lots of the Chiefs gamers love their rivalry with the Payments is how each fanbases assist their staff and hate the opposite staff. “They don't just like the Chiefs,” QB Patrick Mahomes stated of the Payments' followers. “It's a cool atmosphere. I like enjoying in historic stadiums and that stadium has had so many nice gamers play in it.” Sunday's sport might be the Chiefs' final look in Highmark Stadium. Mahomes hopes Kansas Metropolis can pull collectively for its first victory in Buffalo since 2020. — Nate Taylor

What we're listening to on the Payments: Although the Payments' offense has reigning MVP Josh Allen, and RB James Prepare dinner III is off to an explosive begin, questions linger in regards to the latest struggles of the surface passing sport. The protection can also be coping with accidents and should preserve tempo with a Chiefs offense that has gotten sizzling after Rashee Rice's return. “Anytime you are enjoying in opposition to staff and quarterback, it's a must to get to play on the prime of your sport to be able to win a soccer sport,” Allen stated. “So, not that you do not go on the market and attempt to play your greatest on a regular basis, there's a heightened sense of consciousness to that, of understanding who's on the opposite aspect of the soccer.” — Alaina Getzenberg

Stat to know: That is the tenth matchup between Mahomes and Allen, together with the playoffs. Since 1950, no QBs underneath 30 have confronted off extra from totally different divisions. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: The Payments will document a number of 30-plus-yard positive aspects on crossing routes. They run crossing routes 13% of the time, second most within the NFL, whereas the Chiefs — regardless of having cross protection — have allowed 0.77 EPA per play in opposition to focused crossing routes (second worst). — Walder

Accidents: Chiefs | Payments

Fantasy nugget: Chiefs RB Kareem Hunt is ready up for fulfillment with Isiah Pacheco coping with a proper MCL sprain. Hunt's nostril for the top zone has saved him on the fantasy radar, scoring 5 complete touchdowns in eight video games. The Payments' protection additionally permits the sixth-most fantasy factors per sport to RBs. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Allen is 4-1 outright and ATS in opposition to Mahomes within the common season, together with 4 straight wins and covers. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Chiefs 23, Payments 20
Moody's choose: Chiefs 32, Payments 24
Walder's choose: Payments 27, Chiefs 24
FPI prediction: KC, 58.2% (by a mean of two.6 factors)

Matchup must-reads: RB Pacheco anticipated to overlook Payments showdown … What can Buffalo take away from massive win in Carolina for Chiefs? … For QB Mahomes, Chiefs, the grind really begins

8:20 p.m. ET | NBC | Matchup ranking: 63.6/100
ESPN BET: SEA -2.5 (47.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Seahawks: They don't seem to be positive which Commanders QB they're going to face Sunday evening — Jayden Daniels or Marcus Mariota. Coach Mike Macdonald stated Wednesday that they do not want drastically totally different sport plans for both as a result of Washington runs the identical offense regardless. “I believe each function it rather well, each have actually nice arm expertise, each can lengthen performs, each are actually quick,” Macdonald stated. — Brady Henderson

What we're listening to on the Commanders: Washington's protection continues to permit explosive performs. The Commanders have allowed 27 cross performs of not less than 20 yards, and solely 4 groups have yielded extra. Just one staff (Dallas) has allowed extra complete yards on such performs. It is resulting from myriad issues, from communication to self-discipline and generally simply getting beat. In the meantime, in solely seven video games, Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the NFL with 14 receptions of 20-plus yards — and has 101 extra complete yards off such performs than any receiver within the NFL. — John Keim

Stat to know: Sam Darnold has had 19 completions of 20-plus air yards, most within the NFL this season. Essentially the most by a Seattle participant within the first eight video games over the previous 20 seasons is 20 by Russell Wilson (2019 and 2017). — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: Commanders LB Bobby Wagner will lead all gamers in mixed tackles in Week 9. If Seattle will get out to a lead, it's going to wish to run the ball loads — therefore giving Wagner sort out alternatives. Plus, my sort out mannequin provides Wagner a 46% likelihood to succeed in double-digit tackles — the best of any participant this week. — Walder

Accidents: Seahawks | Commanders

Fantasy nugget: Seahawks RB Zach Charbonnet is in an ideal spot behind an offensive line that ranks tenth in run block win price (72.7%), dealing with a Commanders protection that is center of the pack in fantasy factors allowed to the place. Charbonnet has had 10 or extra touches in each sport this season. He completed with a season-high 19.5 fantasy factors earlier than the bye. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: The Commanders are 11-26-1 ATS in prime-time video games since 2013 (0-3 ATS this season). Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Seahawks 30, Commanders 19
Moody's choose: Seahawks 28, Commanders 21
Walder's choose: Seahawks 27, Commanders 21
FPI prediction: WSH, 56.8% (by a mean of two.3 factors)

Matchup must-reads: QB Daniels in line to play vs. Seahawks, however WR McLaurin out with damage

Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET | ABC, ESPN | Matchup ranking: 54.2/100
ESPN BET: DAL -2.5 (53.5 O/U)

What we're listening to on the Cardinals: They're on the proverbial fork within the street with their season. If all of the tweaks they made through the bye week repay with a win, they may salvage a season that has been marred by a five-game shedding streak. In the event that they lengthen that streak to 6 video games, the season might be hanging on by a thread. “I believe the principle factor for us is you possibly can't look into the longer term. You possibly can't look again now. We're the place we're. We obtained to do all the pieces that we have to do to attempt to win a sport,” coach Jonathan Gannon stated. — Josh Weinfuss

What we're listening to on the Cowboys: At 3-4-1, the Cowboys are in must-win territory on the halfway level of their season — not only for playoff functions, however for feeling like ‘the-season-isn't-slipping-away' functions. Since 2000, the Cowboys are 15-10 in video games earlier than their bye week. Previously 10 seasons they've made the postseason, they've misplaced the sport earlier than their bye solely as soon as and nonetheless made the playoffs (2018). That 12 months, they made a season-changing commerce for Amari Cooper earlier than the commerce deadline. Have they got an identical transfer in retailer this season? — Todd Archer

Stat to know: The Cowboys are the primary staff in NFL historical past to common 30.0 factors per sport and have a destructive level differential by the primary eight video games. — ESPN Analysis

Daring prediction: If he begins, Cardinals QB Kyler Murray (foot) will document his highest air-yards-per-attempt sport of the season (earlier excessive: 7.0). Cowboys opponents have averaged 8.6 air yards per try this season, highest within the NFL. — Walder

Accidents: Cardinals | Cowboys

Fantasy nugget: Cardinals WR Marvin Harrison Jr. has been underwhelming to date, topping 13.0 fantasy factors in solely three video games and reaching 10 or extra targets simply as soon as. Issues are trying up in opposition to a Cowboys protection that has struggled in opposition to exterior receivers and is permitting essentially the most fantasy factors per sport to wideouts. See Week 9 rankings. — Moody

Betting nugget: Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is 29-22-1 ATS in his profession as a house favourite with overs going 35-17 in these video games. Learn extra. — ESPN Analysis

Maldonado's choose: Cowboys 48, Cardinals 20
Moody's choose: Cowboys 41, Cardinals 31
Walder's choose: Cowboys 33, Cardinals 24
FPI prediction: DAL, 61.1% (by a mean of 4.2 factors)

Matchup must-reads: Cardinals getting ready QB Murray to begin vs. Cowboys … The place will QB Prescott, ‘inconsistent' Cowboys go from right here?