The NFL Week 9 schedule for the 2024 season is filled with exciting matchups, and we have all the information you need to know heading into the weekend. Our NFL Nation reporters provide the key points for every game, and analytics writer Seth Walder makes bold predictions for each matchup. The ESPN Research team gives important stats to know and betting tips for each contest, while our Football Power Index (FPI) delves into the numbers with game projections. Fantasy analyst Eric Moody identifies X factors for fantasy football, and analysts Kalyn Kahler, Moody, and Walder give their final score predictions for every game. Everything you need to prepare for a packed weekend of NFL football is right here in one place.
Let’s dive into the full Week 9 slate, including an NFC North showdown between the Lions and Packers, and the Joe Flacco-led Colts taking on the Vikings. The weekend culminates with a “Monday Night Football” matchup between the Buccaneers and the Chiefs on ESPN.
Cowboys are at a crossroads, will they contend for the playoffs, or will they focus on draft positioning in the second half of the season? With a 4-4 record after eight games, their playoff chances are uncertain, as history shows that being .500 at this point does not guarantee postseason success. The Falcons, on the other hand, might revert to a run-first strategy against the Cowboys, who have struggled against the run this season.
Injuries will play a crucial role in several matchups, including the Dolphins at Bills game, where running back Jaylen Wright leads the Dolphins in yards per carry but faces a tough Bills defense. The Raiders’ offensive line is dealing with injuries as they prepare to face the Bengals, who have a strong pass rush led by Maxx Crosby.
The Chargers head to Cleveland with quarterback Justin Herbert finding his stride, while the Browns look to build on Jameis Winston’s impressive debut. The Patriots are uncertain at quarterback, with rookie Drake Maye in concussion protocol, as they face the Titans, who are still searching for their first home win of the season.
The Commanders take on the struggling Giants, while the Saints aim to snap a six-game losing streak against the Panthers. The Bears face the Cardinals in a crucial matchup, and the Rams look to contain the Seahawks’ rushing attack. The Colts turn to Joe Flacco against the Vikings, and the Buccaneers face a tough test against the undefeated Chiefs.
As we head into Week 9, the NFL action promises to be thrilling, with plenty of storylines to watch and exciting matchups on the horizon. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the weekend unfolds.
