It’s a new week of NFL football, which means it’s time for some staff predictions and picks. Last week, we did a pretty poor job with our picks (besides Tim), so we’re looking to bounce back in a big way. NFL Writer Utsav Jain is also joining us, so he’s starting with a clean 0-0 record.

Here are our overall records for the season through Week 8.

Overall post Week 8:

Luke Hubbard: 34-22 (.607)

Tim Wood: 33-23 (.589)

Abhishek Singh: 23-18 (.561)

Reubyn Coutinho: 27-16 (.627)

Utsav Jain: 0-0 (.000)

Without further ado, let’s hop right into the EssentiallySports staff predictions for Week 9.

Ravens at Dolphins

Game Time: Thursday, 7:15 pm at SoFi Stadium

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime TV

Broadcasters: Al Michaels, Kirk Herbstreit, Kaylee Hartung

Game Odds: BAL -7.5, O/U 50.5

PFF Rankings: BAL Offense 19th, Defense 28th, MIA  Offense 31st, Defense 29thCHI

Recent Matchups: BAL 30-16 win over CHI, MIA 34-10 win over ATL

Key Injuries: Bradley Chubb, Storm Duck, Tyreek Hill

Luke Hubbard, Senior NFL Writer: The Miami Dolphins looked pretty good last week, but the Baltimore Ravens are getting Lamar Jackson back for the first time in a while. I think he’s going to have a big game against one of the worst defenses in the league, and the Ravens win big. Ravens 31, Dolphins 20

Tim Wood, NFL Content Chief: It’s hard to look at what the Dolphins did to the Falcons and think it couldn’t happen again this week with an even more vulnerable Ravens team. But Baltimore is coming back strong with Lamar at the helm, knowing that they are in must-win mode to stay in the playoff hunt. This feels like another down-to-the-wire TNF tilt. Ravens 30, Dolphins 28

Abhishek Singh, NFL Content Manager: The Dolphins have looked strong lately, but with Jackson returning, the Ravens’ offense finally feels whole again. I expect Baltimore to exploit Miami’s defense and roll comfortably on the road. Ravens 25, Dolphins 10

Reubyn Coutinho, NFL Lead Editor: The Dolphins kinda kept the Falcons quiet last week. But Atlanta was without two major threats, which allowed the Dolphins some breathing room. They won’t have it at home against the Ravens, with Jackson back under center. Their only hope? Trust the Ravens’ defense to crumble and Tua to have an encore stellar game. I don’t see it happening. Ravens 27, Dolphins 21

Utsav Jain, NFL Writer: The Dolphins finally found a spark. But whether that spark is here to stay or not is still up for debate. On the other hand, the Ravens showed last week that they can ball even without the dual-threat of Lamar Jackson. Miami has allowed only 199.4 passing yards per game, and they’ve also been bled for 145 average rushing yards. If Lamar’s leg is firing on all cylinders, I don’t see the Dolphins holding their own. Ravens 34, Dolphins 18

Bears at Bengals

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Paycor Stadium

Where to Watch: CBS

Broadcasters: Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta, Aditi Kinkhabwala

Game Odds: CHI -2.5, O/U 52.5

PFF Rankings: CHI Offense 12th, Defense 19th, CIN Offense 23rd, Defense 30th

Recent Matchups: CHI 30-16 loss to BAL, CIN 39-38 loss to NYJ

Key Injuries: Kyler Gordon, Cole Kmet, Rome Odunze, Joe Flacco, Trey Hendrickson, Joe Burrow

Hubbard: I think this could end up being a pretty good game. The Chicago Bears are the better all-around team, but it’s hard to bet against the Cincinnati Bengals’ offense. I think we see a shootout, but I trust Chicago’s defense to get a big stop late. Bears 29, Bengals 28

Wood: The word “trust” associated with the Bears is a tricky proposition. This really comes down to defense, and unfortunately, the Bengals can not be trusted to make a big stop right now. Bears 34, Bengals 20

Singh: The Bengals are limping into this one, and without a healthy Joe Flacco, it’s hard to see them keeping up. Chicago’s run game should wear down Cincinnati’s defense, and Caleb Williams finally gets some rhythm back. Bears 27, Bengals 20

Coutinho: Flacco remains 50/50 as of Thursday morning, and the Bengals may need to turn to Jake Browning. Oh no, Cincy. You needed Flacco on the field to use his experience against CJGJ. With him doubtful, or not at 100 percent, the Bears will have fun on the other side of the ball. And Williams will do just enough. Bears 17,  Bengals 9

Jain: This one’s a bit tricky. The Bears’ defense is leading the league with takeaways, but injuries have left their roster pretty shaken up. If C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s addition can give them a spark, something wonderful could happen. The Bengals face something similar. If Flacco remains sidelined, I can’t put a lot of faith in Browning to bring them a win. If Flacco’s throwing arm’s back in action, well, that’s a whole other story. For now, though, I’ll give this one to Chicago. Bears 32, Bengals 20  

Vikings at Lions

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Ford Field

Where to Watch: FOX

Broadcasters: Kevin Burkhardt, Tom Brady, Erin Andrews, Tom Rinaldi

Game Odds: DET -8.5, O/U 47.5

PFF Rankings: MIN Offense 27th, Defense 23rd, DET Offense 5th, Defense 2nd

Recent Matchups: MIN 37-10 loss to LAC, DET Bye

Key Injuries: Carson Wentz, Jeff Okudah, Zach Cunningham, Kerby Joseph

Hubbard: There’s not much to this game, in my opinion. I think the Detroit Lions are one of the best teams in the league, and I think the Minnesota Vikings don’t have a good enough quarterback to keep up in a track meet. Lions win easily. Lions 38, Vikings 17

Wood: Talk about two teams headed in different directions. The Vikings are looking like a train wreck right now. Can J.J. McCarthy infuse some life and energy into this offense? Sure. But you still have to stop the Lions at home. And that’s not going to happen here. Lions 31, Vikings 21

Singh: The Lions are fresh off a bye and playing at home, while the Vikings are still scrambling at quarterback. Even if McCarthy returns, I think it’s hard to imagine Minnesota keeping pace with Detroit’s balance on both sides of the ball. Lions 27, Vikings 17

Coutinho: McCarthy’s return will not lead to a win. Yes, it will make them better, but that’s a very low bar for the Vikes right now. Factor in that the Lions have had a bye week after trouncing the Bucs, and it’s looking even worse for Minnesota’s hopes. Lions 31, Vikings 17 

Jain: Jared Goff has been cooking ever since he hit the 2025 season, with just two losses so far. Rejuvenated after their bye week, Goff could easily torch the Vikings’ secondary. Nice to have McCarthy back, but it’s still a loss. The only question is, by how much? Lions 42, Vikings 16

Panthers at Packers

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Lambeau Field

Where to Watch: FOX

Broadcasters: Adam Amin, Greg Olsen, Pam Oliver

Game Odds: GB -12.5, O/U 44.5

PFF Rankings: CAR Offense 15th, Defense 14th, GB Offense 9th, Defense 3rd

Recent Matchups: CAR 40-9 loss to BUF, GB 35-25 win over PIT

Key Injuries: Zach Tom, Devonte Wyatt, Jayden Reed

Hubbard: The Carolina Panthers are the most fraudulent 4-4 team of all time. I know they didn’t have Bryce Young last week, but they still have issues on offense and defense. The Green Bay Packers made me believe in them last week, so give me the Packers by two scores. Packers 27, Panthers 13

Wood: I’m done trashing the Packers. But what I will say is this is my pick for the Admiral Ackbar Trap Game of the Week. The Panthers were not the contender they appeared to be one week over .500, but they’re not as bad as the Bills’ beatdown last week. I think this is a game where the Packers escape with a fourth-quarter push (no tushes involved). Packers 28, Panthers 24

Top Stories

Jerry Jones Names $100 Billion Distraction Despite Mounting Skepticism on Cowboys Defense

Pat Freiermuth Reveals Aaron Rodgers’ Concerns Before Steelers Move Amid Delayed Offensive Changes

Jerry Jones to Cut Ties With Cowboys WR Amid Disappointing George Pickens News – Report

Mike Tomlin Signs Twice-Released Safety as Free Agent Shilo Sanders Ignored by Steelers: Report

Desperate Michael Carter II Gave Up 7-Figure Guaranteed Money to Join the Eagles

Singh: The Panthers are getting Young back, but that might not be enough against a Packers team riding serious momentum. Green Bay’s offense looks locked in, and while Carolina might hang around early, Lambeau’s energy should take over late. Packers 34, Panthers 17

Coutinho: Green Bay takes this game. They already had their blips against the Browns (last quarter) and the Cowboys (second quarter). No shade on the Panthers, it’s just that the Packers are too damn formidable. Packers 29, Panthers 16

Jain: After Week 8, Jordan Love’s in my MVP conversation. Twenty straight completions against Aaron Rodgers’ Steelers, tying Brett Favre’s franchise record. You’ve just got to love Love. He’s poised, either throwing screens or deep passes over defenders with the air of a star writing Green Bay’s third historic chapter. The Panthers could have Young back, and they’ve got Rico Dowdle’s rushing leadership. But beyond that, I don’t see a spark. Packers 34, Panthers 20

Chargers at Titans

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Nissan Stadium

Where to Watch: CBS

Broadcasters: Tom McCarthy, Ross Tucker, Amanda Balionis

Game Odds: LAC -10.5, O/U 43.5

PFF Rankings: LAC Offense 13th, Defense 9th, TEN Offense 30th, Defense 24th

Recent Matchups: LAC 37-10 win over MIN, TEN 38-14 loss to IND

Key Injuries: Mekhi Becton, Tony Jefferson, Jeffery Simmons, Calvin Ridley

Hubbard: The Tennessee Titans are the worst team in the league. Even if they played the JV team from Nashville High, I still wouldn’t pick them. Chargers 28, Titans 6

Wood: I just pray we don’t see the Chargers at their worst here. This should be an easy LA win, but given the trip across country and the Chargers being the Chargers, nothing is certain. This Titans team is feisty. The Colts smacked them. The Chargers are going to be more of a love tap. Chargers 21, Titans 17

Singh: The Chargers are rested, motivated, and facing a Titans team that looks like it’s already in the race for Tankathon. With Justin Herbert in rhythm and Tennessee struggling to stop the run or the pass, this could get ugly fast. Chargers 33, Titans 16

Coutinho: No wonder Herbert showed up at the NBA game and the World Series. He’s playing the Titans next. It’s almost like an unofficial bye week, given how awful the Titans have been this season. Chargers 34 Titans 13

Jain: Cam Ward definitely shows flashes sometimes, but I can’t get over the fact that he has more picks (6) than touchdowns (5). Herbert has a different edge to him these days. Even if his team ebbs and flows between weeks, I’ve got to give this one to LA. Chargers 35, Titans 10

Falcons at Patriots

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Gillette Stadium

Where to Watch: CBS

Broadcasters: Andrew Catalon, Charles Davis, Jason McCourty, AJ Ross

Game Odds: NE -5.5, O/U 45.5

PFF Rankings: ATL Offense 12th, Defense 20th, NE Offense 8th, Defense 12th

Recent Matchups: ATL 34-10 loss to MIA, NE 32-13 win over CLE

Key Injuries: Jalon Walker, Drake London, Michael Penix, Stefon Diggs, Rhamondre Stevenson

Hubbard: The Atlanta Falcons have lost all their swagger, and the New England Patriots are one of the hottest teams in the league. It doesn’t matter who’s at quarterback for Atlanta; it won’t make a difference. And yes, this score is intentional. Patriots 28, Falcons 3 

Wood: Cute, Luke. That’s the kind of thing where, given your NFC South allegiances, I think you might be trying to put a reverse hex on here. (I am still smarting from allowing Luke to slip the Saints QB change into a headline as a ‘major takeaway’ from Week 8). I am sticking with the Pats until they lose, but I’m not feeling phenomenal about this two-week NFC South detour. I’m just hoping for ‘survive and advance’ here. Patriots 27, Falcons 24

Singh: Mike Vrabel‘s Pats are on a roll, and their defense has been elite against the run all year. Atlanta’s QB situation is messy, and New England’s balanced offense should take full advantage at home. Don’t be surprised if a Patriots QB not named Tom Brady keeps Falcons fans up at night after Sunday. Patriots 27, Falcons 17

Coutinho: You can’t concede 34 to the Dolphins and then head to Foxborough against a dominant Patriots team. The Falcons aren’t 100 percent sure if Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London will line up Sunday. Even if they do, their presence will just reduce the deficit by which Atlanta will lose. Patriots 27, Falcons 13

Jain: Drake Maye is on a mission to break Brady’s records and write the rebirth saga of the Patriots’ dominance. He’s already broken one last week by posting at least five games with 200-plus passing yards and two touchdowns. The way the Pats are cooking, Penix or Cousins feel outmatched. Patriots 33, Falcons 10

49ers at Giants

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at MetLife Stadium

Where to Watch: CBS

Broadcasters: Kevin Harlan, Trent Green, Melanie Collins

Game Odds: SF -2.5, O/U 

PFF Rankings: SF Offense 11th, Defense 26th, NYG Offense 28th, Defense T-17th

Recent Matchups: SF 26-15 loss to HOU, NYG 38-20 loss to PHI

Key Injuries: Bryce Huff, Upton Stout, Cor’Dale Flott, Paulson Adebo, Cam Skattebo

Hubbard: The Mac Jones magic is gone, and San Fran’s defense has kind of fallen off a cliff since Fred Warner’s injury. I’ve got a weird feeling about the New York Giants, who will be playing for Cam Skattebo this weekend. Giants 23, 49ers 18

Wood: I’ve got a weird feeling about the Giants, too. It’s called indigestion. I like that the 49ers are getting healthier by the week, and Kyle Shanahan will have them ready for this scrappy G-Men crew. Whomever the 49ers start at QB, I think the 49ers’ defense will be the main star of the game. 49ers 24, Giants 7

Singh: Both teams are banged up, but the 49ers are built to handle adversity. After an embarrassing loss to Houston, expect them to play with an edge against a depleted Giants squad missing key weapons. 49ers 28, Giants 17

Coutinho: It’s going to be a 49ers win. No two ways about that. The bigger thing to make a prediction about is whether it’ll be Jones or Purdy under center. I’m going with Purdy. 49ers 24, Giants 17

Jain: I want to go give it to the Giants, as always (I’m an NFC East guy). But it’ll be tough to see a field without Cam Skattebo headbutting everyone in sight. I think Jaxson Dart feels the same way, too. Jones has seen a drop in numbers, and he bruised his knee last Sunday. Purdy’s frustration at watching the games from afar is mirrored in my sentiment around this matchup. I still think at home, New York has enough to win. Giants 27, 49ers 13

Colts at Steelers

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Acrisure Stadium

Where to Watch: CBS

Broadcasters: Ian Eagle, JJ Watt, Evan Washburn

Game Odds: IND -3.5, O/U 50.5

PFF Rankings: IND Offense T-2nd, Defense T-17th, PIT Offense 19th, Defense 13th

Recent Matchups: IND 38-14 win over TEN, PIT 35-25 loss to GB

Key Injuries: Kenny Moore, Josh Downs, Samson Ebukam, Zach Frazier, Pat Freiermuth, DeShon Elliott

Hubbard: I think the Pittsburgh Steelers sell out to stop the run, forcing Daniel Jones to beat them through the air. Unfortunately for the Steelers, they have one of the worst passing defenses in the league, so it won’t matter. Colts 29, Steelers 24

Wood: Kyle Dugger is going to pay immediate dividends for the Steelers in their efforts to halt the Colts’ passing game. Jonathan Taylor is still going to have his way with Pittsburgh, but it won’t be enough to snag a road win. Steelers 31, Colts 21

Singh: The Colts are rolling right now with one of the league’s most explosive offenses, and Taylor looks unstoppable. Pittsburgh’s defense has too many leaks to slow them down, even at home. This is also good news for all Taylor fantasy owners. Colts 30, Steelers 24

Coutinho: The Steelers defense is an offensive team’s delight. And the Colts are THE NFL’s BEST OFFENSE. Sorry, Terrible Towel holders, t’s gonna be a long and frustrating game for you guys. Colts 35, Steelers 14

Jain: DK Metcalf and AR8 make me believe in retro magic, but then there’s the defense. They have the most expensive secondary and still bleed yards and points like its preseason Week 1. Against Daniel Jones’ MVP swagger, the Terrible Towels this week might just be used to wipe tears. Colts 34, Steelers 20 

Broncos at Texans

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at NRG Stadium

Where to Watch: FOX

Broadcasters: Kevin Kugler, Daryl Johnston, Allison Williams

Game Odds: HOU -1.5, O/U 39.5

PFF Rankings: DEN Offense 15th, Defense 11th, HOU Offense 18th, Defense 5th

Recent Matchups: DEN 44-24 win over DAL, HOU 26-15 win over SF

Key Injuries: Pat Surtain II, Marvin Mims, Jalen Pitre, Dalton Schultz, Nico Collins

Hubbard: This game is going to be ugly, but in the best way. These are, in my opinion, the two best defenses in football. Points are going to be at a premium, and a lot of this is going to be about playing the field position game. This will be a good change of pace from the offensive shootouts we’re used to seeing nowadays (watch this game have 60+ total points now). Broncos 18, Texans 13

Wood: On paper, this shapes up to be a defensive battle, doesn’t it? That’s why you always go against the grain in these spots. This is a spot where we’re forced to take a stand on how much we truly believe in the Broncos as an elite team. Because the Texans are very needy of a win here. The Broncos offense is going to be slowed a bit, but this is not going to be a field goal fest that Vegas thinks it will be. Broncos 30, Texans 24

Singh: DeMeco Ryans‘ crew is coming off a win, but it doesn’t say much given the 49ers’ injuries. Denver’s defense has been quietly dominant, and with Houston’s offensive line still a liability, that front should control the game. Broncos 23, Texans 17

Coutinho: Denver marches into Texas with a five-game winning streak. They will leave the Lone Star State with a sixth on the bounce in a low-scoring game. Bo Nix could feel the heat here, especially after a rather relaxed outing versus the Cowboys’ nonexistent defense. If he scores four tuddies here, that will be something. I’m going for plenty of field goals here. Broncos 19, Texans 12

Jain: Get ready for another street fight. The Broncos have the momentum of a scoring machine, but Nix’s security blankets are stretched so thin he’ll be grasping for targets. The Texans’ O-line, on the other hand, has allowed C.J. Stroud to take 15 sacks already (none in the last game, though). Both teams lack serious offensive power, but make up for it with their secondary. Win, lose, it’s going to be a battle till the last second. Nix & Co. should continue building on its win streak. Broncos 18, Texans 15

Jaguars at Raiders

Game Time: Sunday, 4:05 pm at Acrisure Stadium

Where to Watch: FOX

Broadcasters: Chris Myers, Mark Schlereth, Kristina Pink

Game Odds: JAX -3.5, O/U 44.5

PFF Rankings: JAX Offense 25th, Defense 12th, Offense 26th, Defense 31st

Recent Matchups: JAX Bye, LV Bye

Key Injuries: Devin Lloyd, Tim Patrick, Brian Thomas Jr., Maxx Crosby, Adam Butler

Hubbard: I really have no interest in watching this game. The Las Vegas Raiders are one of the most boring teams to watch, and I just don’t like the Jacksonville Jaguars. Trevor Lawrence is too good to be as bad as he is, and they just aren’t fun to watch unless they’re playing really well, which happens maybe twice a year. Jaguars 27, Raiders 10

Wood: Fun fact: Lawrence was hanging out in my town during the bye week. He’s a great dude. That’s really all I have to say about this game, other than my score is giving the Raiders TDs because I’m trying to will some fantasy points for Ashton Jeanty. Jaguars 24, Raiders 21 

Singh: It’s the battle of the bye week returns, and both teams desperately need to reset. The Raiders are still reeling from their loss to Kansas City, while the Jaguars’ balanced offense should bounce back strong after a week off. Jacksonville’s defense makes the difference late. Jaguars 28, Raiders 20

Coutinho: The Jags had a good run, then ran into two strong teams. The 2-5 Raiders aren’t a strong team. Las Vegas will at least get on the board this time. Don’t see them getting shutout again. Jaguars 31, Raiders 10

Jain: It’s been a few weeks since we’ve seen Lawrence add some decent numbers on the board. If he can avoid getting sacked seven times in a single game for a third time this season, he has a chance. The Raiders need Tom Brady on the field to bail them out of the hole they’ve dug for themselves. Since that’s not happening, I’m going to give this one to the Jags. Jaguars 26, Raiders 12 

Saints at Rams

Game Time: Sunday, 4:05 pm at SoFi Stadium

Where to Watch: CBS

Broadcasters: Kenny Albert, Jonathan Vilma, Megan Olivi

Game Odds: LAR -13.5, O/U 44.5

PFF Rankings: NO Offense 29th, Defense 20th, LAR Offense 1st, Defense 4th

Recent Matchups: NO 23-3 loss to TB, LAR Bye

Key Injuries: Alvin Kamara, Rashid Shaheed, Alontae Taylor, Rob Havenstein, Kamren Kitchens, Puka Nacua

Hubbard: The New Orleans Saints were a fun, feisty team for a while, but now they’re just bad, and they’re starting a rookie quarterback against a very good pass rush. Good luck with that one, Kellen Moore. Rams 30, Saints 7

Wood: This is the beatdown of the week. Expect to see Jimmy Garoppolo in by the middle of the third. Rams 44, Saints 7

Singh: The Rams are rolling, Puka Nacua’s likely back, and a rookie QB in Tyler Shough faces a top defense on the road. This sets up as a rout. Rams 34, Saints 13

Coutinho: Rams. And they’ll also have a third straight game restricting the opponent to single digits. Sorry, New Orleans. Shough under center will not free y’all from your battle to get the No. 1 draft pick for 2026. Rams 35, Saints 6

Jain: The Saints asked for wins, and Spencer Rattler only gave them one. Kellen Moore says Shough’s ready, but against Los Angeles? Everyone knows the heartbreak’s going to continue. Matthew Stafford’s been steadier than ever this season. Quiet, confident, not flashy, but doing just enough to keep the Rams in contention week after week. Coming off a bye, expect the Rams to ball. Rams 33, Saints 12

Chiefs at Bills

Game Time: Sunday, 4:25 pm at Highmark Stadium

Where to Watch: FOX

Broadcasters: Jim Nantz, Tony Romo, Tracy Wolfson

Game Odds: KC -1.5, O/U 51.5

PFF Rankings: KC Offense 10th, Defense 10th, BUF Offense 4th, Defense 28th

Recent Matchups: KC 28-7 win over WAS, BUF 40-9 win over CAR

Key Injuries: Trey Smith, Hollywood Brown, Josh Simmons, Josh Palmer, Matt Prater, Shaq Thompson

Hubbard: Finally, the game of the week. I’m not sure why this isn’t a primetime game, but it is what it is. These two teams always give us a thrilling game, and this should be no exception. I think Kansas City is the better team, but Buffalo should keep it close. Chiefs 35, Bills 31

Wood: The league has to throw the daytime networks a bone from time to time. This is the bone, and my, what a delicious treat it will be. It’s coming down to who has the ball last. I know that’s the oldest cliche in the NFL playbook, but it’s a real thing here. And because this is the regular season, that sets up the Chiefs to get their likely revenge in the playoffs, I’ll go with the home team. Bills 44, Chiefs 41

Singh: It’s the matchup everyone circles every season: Mahomes vs Allen. The Bills look rejuvenated after routing Carolina, but Kansas City’s balance and playoff poise usually win out in these showdowns. I expect another classic, but the champs stay sharp. Chiefs 30, Bills 27

Coutinho: The Bills usually win the regular-season games against Kansas City; they’re 4-for-4 since 2021, but this is a mere stat. In just a few weeks, the Bills Mafia has gone from waiting for this to absolutely dreading it. For Kansas City, it’s been the opposite. That’s how the team’s fortunes have turned. Allen can keep it close, but it’ll be down to how the Bills’ defense can cope with Mahomes and his WR army. Chiefs 28, Bills 24

Jain: The clash of the top two MVP candidates has me stoked. Allen hasn’t been showing those exact flashes from last season, but that doesn’t mean he won’t put up a fight. Mahomes is carrying the team on his back even if the offense falters sometimes (hello, Travis Kelce). It’s going to be a slugfest, for sure, but I only see Big Red & Co. smiling at the end of it. Chiefs 33, Bills 30  

Seahawks at Commanders

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at Northwest Stadium

Where to Watch: NBC

Broadcasters: Mike Tirico, Cris Collinsworth, Melissa Stark

Game Odds: SEA -3.5, O/U 46.5

PFF Rankings: SEA Offense T-2nd, Defense 6th, WAS Offense 16th, Defense 16th

Recent Matchups: SEA Bye, WAS 28-7 loss to KC

Key Injuries: Julian Hall, Derick Love, Laremy Tunsil, Terry McLaurin, Matt Gay

Hubbard: Jayden Daniels should be available for this game, which makes it far more interesting. Still, the Washington Commanders just aren’t the same team they were a year ago, and the Seattle Seahawks are one of the top five teams in the league, in my opinion. I think the Commanders can keep it close, but not close enough. Seahawks 25, Commanders 20

Wood: Man, oh man, Seattle is tough. This team is so underrated, mostly because they’re nestled up in the Pacific Northwest, so no one talks about them. They’ll be talking after this national spotlight game. Seahawks 31, Commanders 20

Singh: Dan Quinn’s side hasn’t looked the same without Daniels, and even if he returns, he’s unlikely to be 100 percent. Seattle’s defense is flying around, and Sam Darnold has this offense clicking again. Seahawks 27, Commanders 17

Coutinho: Washington will not be making it back into the playoffs this season, with the Seahawks game just the beginning of what is looking like a 1-3 run till they host the Broncos. The Seahawks got into the end zone three times against the Texans. Against the Commanders, it’ll be way easier to get there. Seahawks 24, Commanders 20

Jain: Terry McLaurin misses yet another game. Overall, this isn’t the same squad that carved out 12 wins last season. Daniels has a steady hand as always, but that hasn’t stopped the Commanders from losing two straight games with him, and one more under Marcus Mariota. For the Seahawks, Darnold has been cooking something special in every game, win or lose. That recipe should continue. Seahawks 28, Commanders 16

Cardinals at Cowboys

Game Time: Sunday, 1 pm at AT&T Stadium

Where to Watch: ABC/ESPN

Broadcasters: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Lisa Salters, Laura Rutledge

Game Odds: DAL -2.5, O/U 54.5

PFF Rankings: ARI Offense 22nd, Defense 26th, DAL Offense 5th, Defense 32nd

Recent Matchups: ARI Bye, DAL 44-24 loss to DEN

Key Injuries: DeMarvion Overshown, Trevon Diggs, Emari Demercado, Walter Nolen

Hubbard: I think this will be a sneaky, fun game. The Dallas Cowboys, as we know, have a great offense and a horrible defense. That’s a recipe for making pretty much every game close. Kyler Murray is back for Arizona, so that’ll help them keep pace, but I think Dallas’ offense is too much in the end. Cowboys 35, Cardinals 30

Wood: I’m off the Crazy Train once again. I just can’t do it. Because if the Cowboys were to win this game, it would once again be, “They’re going to the Super Bowl!” And it will be an affirmation of Jerry Jones’ GM idiocy, which I’m just not willing to co-sign. Cardinals 34, Cowboys 31

Singh: The Cardinals have lost five straight, and even with extra rest from the bye, this matchup in primetime doesn’t favor them. Dallas’ offense should control the game from start to finish. Cowboys 30, Cardinals 20

Coutinho: Dak Prescott’s touchdown streak ended badly last week. It’ll resume in Week 9, but I see the Monday Night Football result urging Jerry Jones to invest in the defense. The Cardinals are on a massive losing streak, but Murray has never lost in Arlington. Also, the Cardinals’ losses have come against three teams sitting in NFC playoff spots, the overall top seed, and one bad quarter against Tennessee. Cardinals 31, Cowboys 24

Jain: The Cowboys lost last week. By the trend they’ve got going for themselves this season, that means they win this one. Prescott’s fire was subdued in Week 8, but he’s trying to ignite the locker room again. Bet on Dak, Lamb, and Pickens to torment the Cardinals’ D. But we’ll have to see just how many points Dallas’ secondary lets slip through their gaps again. This might be the first game this season where the Cardinals score more than 30 points. Cowboys 40, Cardinals 33