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Following an eventful weekend that featured major upsets and standout performances, CBS Sports writers Jordan Dajani and Jared Dubin return to break down the key matchups for Week 9 of the NFL season. Betting lines for these selections are based on odds taken from DraftKings Sportsbook, with data provided by CBS Sports Research.
Jacksonville Jaguars at Baltimore Ravens
Dajani backs the Jacksonville Jaguars (-10) to defeat the Baltimore Ravens, pointing to Trevor Lawrence’s league-leading 112.6 passer rating and Jacksonville’s top-ranked run defense. Dajani notes that the Jaguars have gone 24 straight games without allowing a 75-yard rusher and predicts a 28-13 victory, despite acknowledging questions surrounding Baltimore’s quarterback situation. Dubin also picks the Jaguars (-10), arguing that the Ravens lack the firepower to compete on a short week with their third-string quarterback, predicting a final score of 27-6.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons are set to square off in Madrid. Dajani leans toward the underdog Falcons (+3), citing injuries to Cincinnati cornerback DJ Turner and linebacker Cashius Howell, alongside defensive struggles that allowed the Tennessee Titans 440 yards of total offense last week. Dajani predicts a 27-23 Falcons win. Conversely, Dubin selects the Bengals (-3), highlighting an offense powered by Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, and predicts a 27-20 victory if Cincinnati can contain running back Bijan Robinson.
Los Angeles Rams at Washington Commanders
Dajani predicts a 27-17 win for the Los Angeles Rams (-5.5) against the Washington Commanders, highlighting head coach Sean McVay’s 2-0 record against his former team since his initial loss. Dubin likewise takes the Rams (-5.5), expecting Los Angeles to rely on its ground game following back-to-back wins over the Raiders and Chargers, while expressing doubt that Washington’s offense can keep pace. Dubin forecasts a 24-16 final score.
Denver Broncos at Carolina Panthers
Dajani highlights Bo Nix’s fourth-quarter resilience and predicts the Denver Broncos (-2.5) will defeat the Carolina Panthers 24-20. Dajani notes that Carolina has surrendered 23 sacks through Week 8 and allowed 42.7 points per contest across their first three home games, prompting a defensive coordinator change. Dubin agrees on a Broncos victory, relying on Denver’s defense to pressure Panthers quarterback Bryce Young behind a vulnerable offensive line in a low-scoring affair, predicting a 23-17 outcome.
Green Bay Packers at New England Patriots
Dajani takes the Green Bay Packers (+3) over the New England Patriots, pointing to Jordan Love’s league-leading 2,246 passing yards and a Packers defense that has allowed just 14.6 points per game over its last five outings. Dajani forecasts a 27-24 Packers win. Dubin also picks Green Bay (+3), noting that extra rest will benefit wide receiver Christian Watson and help the defense limit New England’s depleted passing attack, predicting a 26-20 score.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Chicago Bears
Dajani backs the Chicago Bears (-6) to defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, emphasizing the impact of trade-deadline acquisition Jeffery Simmons, whom Dajani describes as the top defensive tackle in the NFL. Dajani also points to quarterback Caleb Williams’ strong recent form and projects a 30-20 Bears win. Dubin also picks Chicago to win, but takes Tampa Bay (+6) to cover the spread by keeping it close through effective running and well-timed blitzes, predicting a 21-17 final score.
Buffalo Bills at Minnesota Vikings
Dajani favors the Minnesota Vikings (+3.5) at home in primetime, raising the possibility of a quarterback change to Carson Wentz if Kyler Murray’s hamstring injury persists. Dajani highlights Minnesota’s league-leading defense in points per game (13.3) and sacks, predicting a narrow 24-23 Bills win. Dubin disagrees, taking the Buffalo Bills (-3.5) because he remains skeptical of the Minnesota offense following a sluggish performance against Detroit, and projects a 20-14 Buffalo victory.
