2024 NFL Week 9 best bets favor the teams that are expected to win. The trend is clear: backing the favorites is the way to go this weekend.
This week, the analyst is steering clear of the Cowboys while placing trust in the injury-riddled Rams — but with a note of caution.
As NFL Week 9 unfolds, bettors hope for favorable outcomes. Let’s break down the matchups.
(All times ET)
SUNDAY, NOV. 3
Chargers @ Browns (1 p.m., CBS)
The question remains: Are the Chargers a good team? The answer is still unclear.
Their victories have mostly come against weaker opponents, with a combined record of 10-22, which raises eyebrows about their true potential.
Injuries have plagued the Chargers, impacting key players like Justin Herbert and Joey Bosa. However, they appear to be nearing full strength for the first time since the season opener.
Their run defense has been a strong point this season, led by nose tackle Poona Ford, who is enjoying a standout year. He could exploit a mismatch against Cleveland’s center, Ethan Pocic.
Meanwhile, the Browns suffered significant injuries in their recent win against the Ravens. They may be without tight end David Njoku, cornerback Denzel Ward, and leading tackler Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah.
With a bye week looming and pleasant weather expected, the Chargers are poised to pressure Jameis Winston and secure a crucial road win.
Cowboys @ Falcons (1 p.m., FOX and FOX Sports App)
Injuries are affecting the betting line, fluctuating between 2.5 and 3 points as the status of Cowboys’ defensive stars like DaRon Bland and Micah Parsons remains uncertain. The line has shifted to -3.5 in favor of the Falcons as both players have missed practice.
The analyst questions the support for Dallas. Their victories have come against teams like the Giants and the Steelers, raising doubts about their overall strength. Coming off a tough matchup in San Francisco and facing the Eagles next, this could be a challenging spot for them.
Dallas has struggled against tight ends, with Kyle Pitts matching his touchdown total from last season in just a few games. The absence of their top cornerbacks could be detrimental against a capable quarterback like Kirk Cousins.
If the Falcons employ a single high safety and man coverage, they may overpower the Cowboys at the line of scrimmage.
Dallas has also shown a concerning trend of poor performances indoors, suffering significant losses in past games. While they may score, the Over is worth considering, but the defense’s ability to make stops remains a question.
Rams @ Seahawks (4:25 p.m., FOX and FOX Sports App)
The analyst felt optimistic about this critical divisional matchup until Puka Nacua injured his knee, causing him to miss Friday’s practice.
When the Rams are operating at full capacity with their key players — Stafford, Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Cooper Kupp — they pose a significant offensive threat. However, losing any one of them can disrupt their rhythm. Nacua’s status remains uncertain for Sunday.
The Rams have historical success against Seattle, particularly under former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, who struggled to contain them in a previous matchup. This year, the Seahawks may not have the defensive talent to replicate that success.
The Seahawks face challenges of their own, as they will be without WR DK Metcalf for the second consecutive week, which was evident in their last game against Buffalo. They also lack TE Noah Fant.
While the Rams defense has shown vulnerability earlier in the season, it is still adapting after losing Aaron Donald. If Nacua is unable to play, the outlook changes dramatically. However, with their primary players available, the Rams are favored to win this matchup.
